Starmer appoints Labor veterans as advisers
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Starmer appoints Labor veterans as advisers
Following Labour’s heavy losses in the 2026 local elections, Prime Minister Keir Starmer has turned to senior party veterans to stabilize the situation, appointing former Prime Minister Gordon Brown and former deputy leader Harriet Harman into key advisory roles.In a surprise move, Gordon Brown was appointed as special envoy for global finance, while Harriet Harman was appointed as adviser on women and girls.Starmer said: “I am delighted to appoint Harriet Harman as my advisor on women and girls. Harriet is a strong advocate for women and girls, and I know she will provide greater opportunities for women in public life.”
A major setback in local opinion polls
Labor faced a major defeat in local elections, losing more than 1,300 council seats across England.
Key regions including Manchester, Salford, Wigan and Oldham slipped from Labour’s control, while the party also lost control of Welsh Sind for the first time and performed poorly in Scotland.The results sparked criticism within the party and increased pressure on Starmer, despite senior leaders publicly supporting him.Following the appointment of Brown and Harman, Starmer posted a video on X with the caption: “Together, we will build a stronger, fairer Britain.”
Brown returns as global finance envoy
Brown will advise the government on international financial cooperation and help develop partnerships to support defense and economic security. Brown, a chancellor and former Prime Minister, will also work with global institutions and leaders in this unpaid, part-time role.
Downing Street said his experience during the financial crisis makes him well suited to the role.
Harman to focus on women and girls
Harman will work on issues affecting women and girls, including violence against women, employment opportunities, and representation in public life.
It will also push for cultural changes within government systems.While the appointments are seen as an attempt to reset the government’s image after the electoral setback, questions remain within Labor about their direction.Prominent figures urged focus and unity, even as pressure mounted in the wake of poor election performance.
