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Will Starmer’s No.10 reset work?
Oct 7, 2024
Katy Balls, Political editor at The Spectator, teams up with John McTernan, a former political secretary to Tony Blair, to dissect the political chaos in Downing Street following Sue Gray's resignation. They discuss the power shift towards Morgan McSweeney and the implications for Keir Starmer's leadership. The duo reflects on past dysfunction in government, the Labour Party's internal dynamics, and the toll of fiscal constraints on effective policy-making. They also ponder whether this shake-up can truly reset Starmer’s agenda.
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Quick takeaways
- Morgan McSweeney's promotion to chief of staff marks a strategic shift aimed at revitalizing the government's political focus and efficiency.
- Keir Starmer's decision to replace Sue Gray highlights a commitment to political adaptability and the need for a fresh approach ahead of the upcoming budget.
Deep dives
Leadership Changes in Government
The recent departure of Sue Gray from her position as Downing Street Chief of Staff marks a significant leadership shift in the government. This change was deemed necessary as the role had become increasingly challenging, where the visibility of the chief of staff often resulted in immense pressure and criticism. Morgan McSweeney, who has been promoted to chief of staff, brings extensive experience from his previous role as campaign director where he achieved substantial electoral success for the Labour Party. His appointment signifies a strategic move to revitalize the government’s political focus and navigate the complexities of the political landscape moving forward.
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