Explanation:

The secretariat is an administrative office that supports the functioning of an organization or institution. In the case of the Cabinet, which is the highest decision-making body in many governments, it is common to have a secretariat that assists in the coordination and management of Cabinet affairs.

Role of the secretariat:
The secretariat of the Cabinet plays a crucial role in ensuring the smooth operation of the Cabinet and facilitating effective communication and coordination among its members. Some of the key responsibilities of the secretariat include:

1. Administrative support: The secretariat provides administrative support to the Cabinet, including organizing meetings, preparing agendas, and maintaining records of decisions and discussions.

2. Policy coordination: The secretariat helps coordinate the development and implementation of government policies by facilitating communication and collaboration among different government departments and agencies.

3. Information management: The secretariat is responsible for gathering and disseminating information relevant to the Cabinet's work, including reports, research, and briefing materials.

4. Policy advice: The secretariat may provide policy advice to the Cabinet members based on research and analysis conducted by its staff. This helps ensure that the Cabinet's decisions are well-informed and evidence-based.

5. Interdepartmental coordination: The secretariat facilitates coordination and cooperation among different government departments and agencies to ensure that government policies and initiatives are implemented effectively.

Position of the secretariat:
In the given question, the correct answer is option 'D', Secretary General. The Secretary General is typically the head of the secretariat and is responsible for its overall management and functioning. They are often a senior civil servant or a political appointee who has significant experience and knowledge of government operations.

The Secretary General works closely with the Cabinet members, providing them with the necessary support and advice to carry out their responsibilities effectively. They also act as a liaison between the Cabinet and other government departments, as well as external stakeholders such as the President or Prime Minister.

In conclusion, the secretariat of the Cabinet plays a vital role in supporting the functioning of the Cabinet and ensuring effective decision-making and policy coordination. The Secretary General, as the head of the secretariat, is responsible for managing its operations and providing support and advice to the Cabinet members.