Whitehall Robbins one of 10 in running to lead civil service

The former Brexit negotiator Oliver Robbins is one of 10 applicants on the longlist to take over from Simon Case as the UK's most senior civil servant, the Guardian understands.

- Pippa Crerar

The candidates, who have their first round of interviews for the job this week and next, are predominantly internal applicants, with several existing permanent secretaries believed to have thrown their hats in the ring.

Whitehall sources said several senior external female candidates who had been linked to the post had not applied, prompting concern in Downing Street because the job of the cabinet secretary has only ever been held by white men. Keir Starmer appointed Jonathan Powell, Tony Blair's former chief of staff, as his national security adviser last week. Sources said the prime minister wanted the best person to take over from Case but might be uncomfortable about appointing two men in quick succession for senior roles.