Kevin Cunnington, director general of the Government Digital Service, is “as committed and passionate as ever about GDS and its future”, the Cabinet Office has said.

Reports published in the media earlier today suggested Cunnington would shortly be stepping down from the GDS hot seat. But a spokesperson for the Cabinet Office flatly denied this, and praised the work done by the GDS leader since he took charge two years ago.

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“The reports regarding Kevin stepping down from GDS are not true,” the spokesperson said. “He has successfully set GDS on a new direction focusing on transformation, collaboration and innovation. This has led to the recent publication of the technology innovation survey, launch of the GovTech Catalyst Programme and the Global Digital Marketplace. Kevin is as committed and passionate as ever about GDS and its future.”

The Cabinet Office also confirmed that, as revealed by PublicTechnology, GDS director of service design and assurance Nic Harrison is to vacate his role and return to his former employer. In his role at GDS, Harrison was responsible for overseeing the development and rollout of the GOV.UK Verify identity assurance product.

"Nic is returning to the Department of Work and Pension in line with his contract,” said a Cabinet Office spokesperson. “We would like to thank him for his contribution to GDS over the last couple of years, and look forward to collaborating with him in his new role at DWP. We will announce his replacement in due course."