Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer has made a bold and contentious move by appointing Andy Coulson, the former editor of the News of the World, as a communications adviser. Coulson, who served time in prison following the phone-hacking scandal, will now play a key role in shaping Labour's media strategy ahead of the next general election.
The decision has already drawn sharp criticism from within the party, with figures like Alastair Campbell expressing dismay. Campbell, Tony Blair's former communications chief, described the appointment as "surprising" given Coulson's controversial past.
Mixed Reactions Within Labour
While some Labour MPs have defended the move as pragmatic, others worry it could damage the party's credibility. Starmer, however, appears determined to bring in experienced media operators to sharpen Labour's messaging.
Coulson isn't the only high-profile media figure joining Starmer's team. The Labour leader has also enlisted the help of former Daily Mirror political editor David Bradshaw, signalling a major shake-up in Labour's communications approach.
A Controversial Past
Coulson's appointment is particularly striking given his history. After editing the News of the World, he became David Cameron's communications director before resigning in 2011 amid the phone-hacking scandal. He was later convicted and served five months in prison.
Starmer's decision to bring Coulson on board suggests the Labour leader is prioritising media savvy over political purity as he prepares for what could be a crucial election campaign.
