Sir Keir Starmer's fledgling government has been rocked by the sudden departure of two key advisers from Number 10, dealing a significant blow to the Prime Minister's inner circle just weeks after taking office.
Double Departure Rocks Downing Street
The exits include the Prime Minister's social cohesion adviser and a senior green policy official, creating immediate gaps in two crucial policy areas that formed central pillars of Labour's election campaign.
Whitehall sources describe the dual resignations as particularly damaging given their timing, coming during the government's critical early months when establishing policy direction and building team cohesion are paramount.
Social Cohesion Role Abandoned
The social cohesion position, created specifically to address community relations and integration issues across the UK, now stands vacant despite rising tensions in several regions. The adviser had been tasked with implementing Starmer's "healing the nation" agenda following years of political division.
Green Policy Setback
Equally concerning is the loss of the green policy adviser, who was instrumental in developing the government's environmental strategy and net-zero commitments. This departure comes amid growing pressure on the administration to accelerate its climate action plans.
Mounting Pressure on Starmer
Political analysts suggest these exits reveal deeper issues within Starmer's operation, pointing to potential internal conflicts or dissatisfaction with the government's direction. The Prime Minister, who campaigned on a platform of competence and stability, now faces questions about his ability to retain top talent.
One Westminster insider noted: "Losing one senior adviser might be unfortunate, but losing two from critical policy areas so early suggests more systemic problems. This will undoubtedly fuel opposition claims that the new government is already faltering."
What Comes Next?
The Downing Street exodus leaves Starmer with immediate challenges:
- Finding suitable replacements without disrupting ongoing policy work
- Maintaining momentum on key social and environmental initiatives
- Containing political fallout and reassuring backbenchers
- Demonstrating that this represents isolated incidents rather than a pattern
As the government scrambles to fill these vacancies, all eyes will be on whether further departures follow and how quickly Starmer can stabilise his team during this crucial formative period.
