Who holds the power to hire and fire ministers in the UK government?

The Prime Minister holds the authority to hire and fire ministers within the UK government. This power is a key aspect of the Prime Minister's role as the head of the government. Ministers are typically appointed from among the elected Members of Parliament, and they work under the direction of the Prime Minister to formulate and implement government policy.

This authority allows the Prime Minister to shape the Cabinet and ensure that it aligns with their political agenda and objectives. By appointing ministers who share their vision or removing those who no longer meet the government's needs or who are underperforming, the Prime Minister can maintain operational efficiency and coherence in the administration.

The Cabinet, while influential in the decision-making process, does not have the direct power to hire or fire ministers; their role is more about collective responsibility and support of the Prime Minister’s leadership. The Civil Service operates independently of political appointments and provides administrative support rather than holding decision-making power over ministers. The Monarch's role in this context is largely ceremonial, as they formally appoint the Prime Minister and other ministers but do so based on the elected government’s recommendations rather than personal discretion.