Taxpayers could soon be charged more than £30,000 so the Government can hire a BUTLER.
The Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO) is advertising for a “strong team player” for its department, which describes itself as “promoting the United Kingdom’s interests overseas, supporting our citizens and businesses around the globe”.
The salary offered is anything from £21,889 to £27,902 “depending on skills, competence and experience” plus £4,520 London Location Allowance.
The role of the “Government Butler” will include organising functions on behalf of all government departments, including breakfasts, lunches, receptions and dinners, for anywhere between 10 and 350 people at a time.
The advert says the candidate will join a “small number of Government Bulters” – the FCO has not confirmed how many – who manage these events.
The chief executive of the TaxPayer’ Alliance said the word ‘butler’ is not something people “struggling under the highest tax burden in nearly 50 years” may want to see.
John O’Connell said: “Entertaining and events are a necessary part of diplomacy, but taxpayers will want to be assured that their money is well-spent and that every penny of it is necessary and justifiable.
“Government ‘butlers’ may not be the best title to read for people who are fed up with struggling under the highest tax burden in nearly 50 years.
“The Foreign Office should remember its’ funding comes from families who often cannot afford to enjoy anything like the fancy events they put on for foreign dignitaries.”
The job advert reads : “This high profile, highly specialised role will see you organise and manage a dining or reception room, briefing chefs and catering staff, preparing rooms, furniture, bars and table settings for events.
“A high percentage of your time will be spent planning and overseeing the smooth running of functions, and you will be responsible for the highest quality VIP hospitality for government departments and ministers.
“As a strong team player, you are able to multitask and prioritise effectively, reacting quickly and positively to ever-changing requirements and last minute requests.
“You will have exceptional communication skills and a keen eye for detail. It is essential that you have previous experience in a hotel, catering or private residence.”
The FCO has been contacted for comment.