Sir Keir Starmer has issued a stark warning to his newly appointed Treasury Minister, Darren Jones, urging him to avoid television appearances after a series of embarrassing early blunders. The appointment has raised eyebrows in Westminster, with critics questioning the judgement behind placing a reportedly gaffe-prone minister in one of government's most economically sensitive roles.
A Rocky Start in the Treasury
Darren Jones, the newly instated Treasury Minister, has already found himself in hot water after multiple missteps during his initial days in office. Sources close to Number 10 indicate growing concern about his media handling capabilities, particularly when discussing complex economic matters.
The situation became so concerning that Sir Keir Starmer personally intervened, advising the minister to steer clear of television cameras until he undergoes comprehensive media training. This unusual move so early in a ministerial appointment suggests significant anxiety within the Labour leadership about public perception of economic competence.
Number 10's Damage Control Operation
Downing Street aides have been placed on high alert, tasked with managing the new minister's public engagements and media interactions. The Prime Minister's team is reportedly implementing strict protocols to prevent further embarrassing incidents that could undermine confidence in the government's economic strategy.
This development comes at a critical time for the Labour government, which has promised economic stability and competent management after years of Conservative turmoil. The appointment of a minister requiring such careful handling so early in his tenure has opposition figures questioning Starmer's judgement.
Political Fallout and Reactions
Conservative MPs have seized upon the situation, describing it as evidence that Labour's "government of all the talents" may not be as competent as advertised. One senior Tory remarked, "If your Treasury minister can't be trusted to speak on television about the economy, what exactly can he be trusted with?"
Meanwhile, Labour backbenchers are expressing private concerns about the message this sends to the public and financial markets. The government's economic credibility, a cornerstone of Starmer's election campaign, now faces its first significant test with a key minister already under special supervision.
The coming weeks will prove crucial for both Darren Jones and the Starmer administration as they attempt to stabilise the situation and demonstrate the economic competence that voters were promised.
