One of Whitehall's oldest departments may be abolished in a Government shake-up, according to a leaked document.
The Privy Council Office dates back to the 12th century and provides secretariat services for the body of senior politicians who advise on the exercise of the Queen's prerogative powers plus administrative support for the leaders of the Commons and Lords.
It also has responsibility for the affairs of 400 institutions, charities and companies incorporated by Royal charter.
A memo to Prime Minister Tony Blair from Whitehall's most senior civil servant, obtained by the Sunday Telegraph, appears to propose shutting down the department and splitting its responsibilities between the Cabinet Office and Department for Constitutional Affairs.
But the memo suggests that the historic title of the minister in charge of the Office - Lord President of the Council - could be retained, in order to preserve the Cabinet rank and salary of its current holder, Baroness Amos.
Cabinet Secretary Sir Gus O'Donnell reportedly said that abolishing the department would "drive efficiency savings".
His memo, entitled "Restricted - Machinery of Government", says the Privy Council Office "has proved too small to operate successfully as a stand-alone department".
Sir Gus suggested that support for Leader of the Commons Jack Straw and Leader of the Lords Lady Amos could be provided by the Cabinet Office.
And the DCA could take over responsibility for the Judicial Committee of the Privy Council's current role of hearing appeals from courts in Commonwealth countries.
He added: "The role of Lord President of the Council will need to remain with Valerie Amos since it is the reason she is paid a Cabinet-rank salary."
Shadow home secretary David Davis said: "This is redesigning Whitehall for the personal convenience of New Labour ministers."
