The civil service recruitment procedure is to be overhauled in a bid to boost the performance of the next generation of Sir Humphreys.

In order to compete with City firms and the super-consultancy firms, such as Accenture and Arthur Andersen, the civil service has announced it is to change the fast-track recruitment programme as part of a wider review.

In future, new recruits will work on frontline projects as well as more traditional work with ministers. They will also visit and work in more departments to gain a wide range of experience. New graduates will have an "individual development contract" - similar to the recruitment programmes offered in commerce to ensure that their career plans are achieved.

Sir Richard Wilson, the head of the civil service, heralded the changes as a major step forward.

"Redefining the fast stream makes sense. It builds on existing efforts to bring in talented new entrants from a more diverse group to complement the strength of our existing staff. We are determined to keep broadening our horizons, improving innovative thinking and increasing the breadth of the skill base," he said.

"We will continue to build on progress already made by the fast stream in opening up entry into the civil service to people who have not previously seen this as a possible career."