[1] It supports the Prime Minister of the United Kingdom and Minister for the Cabinet Office develop, co-ordinate and agree the UK government's domestic policy across the departments of state; with foreign and security policy co-ordinated by the separate National Security Secretariat (NSS).
Being appointed to roles in EDS are highly coveted by talented civil servants, and competition is intense.
Without collective agreement and the issuing of a 'clearance' from EDS, departments cannot progress with policy announcements or take forward high profile and significant projects.
In order to fulfil its duties, EDS officials work very closely with their counterparts in HM Treasury, 10 Downing Street and other teams in the Cabinet Office such as the Prime Minister's Delivery Unit.
The head of EDS has a secure pass through the door that connects their office in 70 Whitehall to 10 Downing Street.