Public Service Rules and the Civil Service Handbook
The Public Service Rules (PSR) are the main regulatory code for conditions of service, conduct, and procedures in the public service; the Civil Service Handbook provides explanatory guidance and good-practice direction. This domain tests whether you know which source governs when there is a conflict, how to use the rules correctly, and how the handbook supports day-to-day administration. The PSR covers recruitment, appointment, promotion, discipline, leave, allowances, retirement, and official conduct; the handbook helps officers interpret and apply those rules consistently, but it does not override the PSR, the Constitution, or statute.
Core rules and concepts
- Hierarchy of authority: Constitution and statute prevail; then the PSR and regulations; then the handbook and circulars as guidance.
- The PSR is not a collection of optional suggestions; compliance is part of administrative accountability.
- Official conduct requires political neutrality, confidentiality, integrity, and avoidance of conflict of interest.
- Records must be accurate, complete, and retrievable; oral instructions should be documented where they affect rights or money.
- Officers must follow the chain of command and use official channels for correspondence.
- Leave, allowances, and other benefits must be applied according to the applicable rule and approval.
Worked example
An officer wants to take annual leave at short notice. The PSR and the office's leave procedure require an application, supervisory recommendation, and approval by the authorised officer, with handover notes. Reasoning: the officer's entitlement to leave does not remove the need for approval and continuity of service. A verbal 'OK' from a colleague is not approval. If the leave affects a critical deadline, the supervisor may propose alternative dates within the rules rather than simply refuse without reasons.
Traps that cost marks
- Treating the handbook as superior to the PSR.
- Relying on a circular that conflicts with statute or the PSR.
- Ignoring the need for written records of official decisions.
- Confusing entitlement with automatic approval.
- Using informal channels for official correspondence.