Keir Starmer is facing another setback as his chief communications officer is set to depart from Downing Street. Steph Driver, who has been a close collaborator with Mr. Starmer for nearly five years, is the latest high-ranking aide to leave No10 following a string of exits. Her departure comes shortly after the Prime Minister lost his strategy director, Paul Ovenden.
In addition to these changes, Mr. Starmer recently dismissed his UK Ambassador to the US, Peter Mandelson, due to revelations about his association with convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. James Lyons, who previously shared the communications chief role with Ms. Driver, also left No10 earlier this month.
Mr. Starmer is working to stabilize his team at No10 following several departures. He recently reshuffled his top team, creating a new position for esteemed minister Darren Jones, who now serves as Chief Secretary to the Prime Minister in Downing Street. This move involved relocating his principal private secretary, Nin Pandit, to a role focused on policy delivery.
Tim Allan, a former adviser to Tony Blair in No 10, was brought in by Mr. Starmer as the new executive director of government communications. According to The Guardian, Ms. Driver decided to step down after discussions about the restructuring of the communications team, following a period of leave for a family bereavement.
Mr. Starmer expressed his gratitude for Steph Driver’s contributions, stating that she has been an integral part of his team for almost five years. Ms. Driver also shared her sentiments, mentioning the honor of working with and advising Keir throughout their journey from opposition to government.
Ms. Driver, who initially joined No10 as deputy director of communications after Labour’s election victory, has been a key figure in the communications team. Following the departure of head of communications Matthew Doyle, she later took on the role of co-director of communications with Mr. Lyons before his exit.
Recent developments have highlighted challenges for Mr. Starmer, as he navigates through changes within his team. Despite the setbacks, he remains focused on leading the government and addressing the evolving dynamics within his administration.