Tribute To Sir Roy Stone: "A True Public Servant"

Sir Roy Stone CBE: 1961 – 2025

4 min read03 June

Powerful yet discreet, Roy Stone worked at the heart of government for over two decades. Highly respected across all parties, he was a true public servant

In the development and evolution of the British state, certain positions have emerged that hold a unique and indispensable place within our constitutional framework – roles of immense influence without which the wiring of the British government would simply not function.

Some of these roles have become fictionalised in popular culture – think of ‘M’ or ‘Control’ in spy novels and films. Yet, even in an age of increasing transparency, one role has remained shrouded in secrecy: the principal private secretary to the government chief whip – known more informally as the “usual channels”.

Over the past century, only five individuals have held this post. One of them was Sir Roy Stone CBE, who retired in 2021 and, to the shock of all who knew him, died suddenly on 12 May 2025 at the age of just 63.

Despite serving for over two decades as one of the most powerful civil servants in the country, Roy maintained an extraordinarily low public profile. In a 2022 profile titled Whitehall’s Whispering Mandarin, Mark D’Arcy recounted how, even years after various chief whips had left government, all would still seek Roy’s permission before speaking about their shared work – such was the discretion and quiet authority he commanded.

The deep affection, respect and shock expressed at his passing are a testament to the man. Tributes came from all sides – led by the Speaker, the Prime Minister, the leader of the opposition, and current and former chief whips. Yet what was especially striking was how widespread the admiration was, not only from the ‘gamekeepers’ of Westminster but also from backbenchers and rebels alike.

This cross-party warmth reflects how Roy saw his role. While he operated at the apex of government business – ensuring legislation passed – he was equally committed to ensuring all got their say. He believed good legislation required robust debate and opposition parties should have the chance to challenge and vote on key issues, even if they may not have as much time to make their points as they would like.

The deep affection, respect, and shock expressed at his passing are a testament to the man

Equally remarkable were the many stories shared in recent weeks by those who encountered Roy throughout his career. His journey was itself inspirational – joining the Civil Service as an apprentice at 16, rising through the Ministry of Defence and Downing Street before eventually serving in the Whips’ Office. Long before it was fashionable, Roy championed apprenticeships and made it his mission to mentor and support young civil servants. He never pulled the ladder up behind him.

This commitment to nurturing others was evident in his extensive professional network, and in his role as visiting professor at the University of Lincoln’s Parliamentary Research Centre. He gave generously of his time and advice, offering wise counsel to many across government and beyond.

While Roy’s diligence and long service might suggest that work was his primary focus, those who knew him understood that his heart belonged to his family. He spoke of them often and with pride. To his wife Dawn, daughter Hannah, and son Elliott: you were always his greatest priority. You should be deeply proud of him – as proud as he was of you. My thoughts are with you during this difficult time.

Sir Roy Stone leaves behind an extraordinary legacy. Those of us fortunate enough to have benefited from his guidance will remember him not only for his public service but for his humanity. He reminded us that politics could be conducted with respect – even when we disagreed. At the heart of his genius was the ability to bring people together, to help them reach negotiated settlements, and to always ensure the government’s business could proceed.

We will miss him greatly. May we honour his memory by continuing to listen, to collaborate, and to speak – even with those with whom we don’t always agree.

Luke Sullivan was special adviser to the government chief whip 2008-10, senior special adviser to the opposition chief whip 2010-21, and political director to Keir Starmer 2021-2024