Sir Keir Starmer is facing mounting criticism from within his own party after a dramatic Downing Street reshuffle that has seen key progressive figures sidelined from top government roles.
The Prime Minister's office shake-up has triggered accusations that he is systematically pushing out left-wing allies who helped secure Labour's landslide election victory, sparking fears of an internal party civil war.
Key Casualties in Reshuffle Fallout
Among the most significant casualties is Anneliese Dodds, who has been removed as Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster despite her crucial role in developing Labour's election-winning manifesto. Sources close to Dodds revealed she learned about her demotion through media reports rather than direct communication from No.10.
Equally telling is the departure of Nick Thomas-Symonds from the Cabinet Office, where he served as Paymaster General. Both politicians were instrumental in crafting the policy platform that propelled Labour to power.
Growing Backbench Discontent
The reshuffle has ignited fury among Labour's left-wing MPs, with one backbencher describing the moves as "a purge of the soft left" that risks alienating the party's progressive base.
Another senior Labour figure warned that the Prime Minister appears to be "surrounding himself with yes-men" at the expense of ideological diversity within his government.
No.10's Defence and Strategic Shift
Downing Street has defended the changes as necessary for ensuring the government has "the right team to deliver on its priorities," but insiders suggest the reshuffle represents a significant strategic shift.
The promotion of figures seen as more centrist has raised questions about whether Starmer is deliberately moving to consolidate his authority and distance his administration from its left-wing roots.
As the dust settles on this dramatic government overhaul, many within Labour are questioning what these changes mean for the party's soul and its commitment to progressive policies that attracted millions of voters.
