Sir Keir Starmer has reportedly appointed two new joint acting chiefs of staff following the departure of Morgan McSweeney from the position, according to widespread media reports. The Labour leader has turned to Vidhya Alakeson and Jill Cuthbertson, both of whom previously served as deputies to McSweeney, to take on the crucial roles in an acting capacity.
Key Appointments Following McSweeney's Exit
The reshuffle comes as Morgan McSweeney steps down from his position, creating a vacancy at the heart of the Prime Minister's operational team. In response, Sir Keir has moved quickly to install Alakeson and Cuthbertson as interim leaders of his staff, ensuring continuity during this transitional period.
Vidhya Alakeson's Background and Responsibilities
Vidhya Alakeson brings substantial experience to her new role, with responsibility for policy development and implementation. She has been managing Downing Street's external relationships and previously served as Labour's director of external relations before the party entered government, where she forged important connections with the business community.
Her professional background includes serving as deputy chief executive at the Resolution Foundation think tank, along with previous government experience in the Number 10 strategy unit and at the Treasury during the last Labour administration. This diverse experience positions her well for the challenges of coordinating policy delivery across government departments.
Jill Cuthbertson's Role and Experience
Jill Cuthbertson has been described as the ultimate gatekeeper to Sir Keir Starmer, having managed the Prime Minister's diary and schedule with precision. She previously ran his office when he served as leader of the opposition, bringing institutional knowledge and operational expertise to her new position.
Cuthbertson's experience extends beyond her work with Starmer, having held similar roles for former Labour leaders Ed Miliband and Gordon Brown. This depth of experience with multiple Labour administrations provides her with unique insights into the demands of supporting a Prime Minister and managing the flow of information and access to the country's leader.
Continuity During Transition
The appointment of McSweeney's former deputies ensures minimal disruption to the Prime Minister's office during this period of change. Both Alakeson and Cuthbertson are already familiar with the operations and priorities of Starmer's administration, having worked closely with the outgoing chief of staff.
This move suggests a preference for stability and continuity within the Prime Minister's inner circle, rather than bringing in external candidates who would require time to acclimatize to the demands of the role. The joint nature of the appointment also allows for a division of responsibilities that plays to each appointee's strengths.
The development comes at a critical time for the Labour government as it navigates various policy challenges and prepares for upcoming parliamentary sessions. Having experienced hands at the helm of the Prime Minister's staff will be crucial for maintaining momentum on government priorities.
