In a move set to invigorate the Labour government’s drive for transformative change, Prime Minister Keir Starmer today unveiled a series of strategic appointments within Downing Street. 

These changes underscore the administration’s commitment to delivering on core priorities like fostering economic growth that benefits working families, strengthening border security, and revitalizing the NHS – all while transitioning into a high-gear phase of governance following a solid first year of foundational reforms. 

At the heart of the announcements is the creation of a new ministerial role: Chief Secretary to the Prime Minister. The Rt Hon Darren Jones MP, previously serving as Chief Secretary to the Treasury, has been tapped for this pivotal position. Based directly in No. 10, Jones will report straight to the Prime Minister and oversee cross-government efforts to advance Labour’s Plan for Change. His attendance at Cabinet meetings ensures seamless coordination, positioning him as a key architect in turning ambitious policies into tangible results for the British people. 

This appointment highlights Starmer’s faith in Jones’s proven track record as a dynamic reformer, ready to tackle the challenges ahead with Blairite energy and focus. 

Filling the vacancy left by Jones at the Treasury, James Murray MP has been promoted to Chief Secretary to the Treasury. Murray, a steadfast ally in economic policy, will continue to attend Cabinet and support Chancellor Rachel Reeves in steering the nation’s finances toward sustainable growth. Meanwhile, Daniel Tomlinson MP – a fresh face from the 2024 intake and the government’s dedicated “growth mission champion” – steps up as Exchequer Secretary to the Treasury. These Treasury shifts not only reward rising talent within the party but also reinforce Labour’s emphasis on economic innovation and opportunity for all. 

Adding heavyweight expertise to the mix, Baroness Minouche Shafik has been appointed as the Prime Minister’s Chief Economic Advisor. A globally renowned economist with a distinguished career spanning the Bank of England, the International Monetary Fund, and academia at institutions like the London School of Economics and Columbia University, Shafik brings unparalleled insight to bolster efforts in raising living standards and accelerating growth. Her role is a clear signal of Starmer’s determination to go “further and faster” in addressing the economic hurdles inherited from years of Conservative mismanagement. 

Further enhancing No. 10’s operational strength, seasoned communicator Tim Allan – a former advisor to Tony Blair and founder of Portland Communications – joins as Executive Director of Government Communications. Working alongside the existing team, including Director of Communications Steph Driver, Allan’s experience promises to sharpen Labour’s messaging and ensure the government’s achievements resonate loudly with the public. 

Other internal adjustments include Daniel York-Smith taking over as the Prime Minister’s Principal Private Secretary, succeeding Nin Pandit, who transitions to lead a newly reformed delivery team within Downing Street. Vidhya Alakeson, Deputy Chief of Staff, assumes expanded oversight of policy and delivery, while strategic communications veteran James Lyons steps down after a successful tenure, paving the way for fresh perspectives. 

Speaking on the changes, Starmer emphasized the shift to “phase two” of his government: “We spent the first year fixing the foundations… But we are now into phase two, which is where we focus on delivery, delivery, delivery and start to show what a difference a Labour government really makes.” 

Labour MP Luke Akehurst echoed this enthusiasm, praising Jones as “a very effective minister and great communicator” whose move to No. 10 will “help drive positive change across government.” 

As Parliament reconvenes, these appointments come at a crucial juncture, equipping the Labour government with the talent and structure needed to navigate upcoming challenges like the Autumn Budget and ongoing reforms. Supporters within the party view this as a savvy reset, empowering Starmer to fulfill the mandate for real, lasting progress that voters demanded in 2024. With this strengthened team, Labour is poised to deliver the change Britain deserves.

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By Labour Home

London, September 2, 2025