In a significant blow to the Prime Minister's inner circle, Morgan McSweeney has resigned from his position as Keir Starmer's chief of staff. This departure follows a period of intense internal conflict within the Labour Party, centred on allegations of plotting and the management style of the Downing Street operation.
A Pivotal Figure Exits Downing Street
McSweeney, a longtime aide and trusted strategist, was instrumental in masterminding Starmer's path to power. He played a crucial role in transforming the Labour Party following the devastating 2019 election defeat under Jeremy Corbyn, guiding it to a substantial majority in the 2024 general election. His resignation marks the loss of a key architect behind Labour's recent political resurgence.
The Botched Operation That Sparked the Crisis
The immediate catalyst for McSweeney's departure appears to have been a poorly executed Number 10 operation. In an effort to shore up Starmer's position against perceived internal threats, aides pre-emptively briefed that the Prime Minister would vigorously resist any attempts to remove him. This strategy backfired spectacularly, particularly angering Health Secretary Wes Streeting, who reacted with public fury to the briefings.
McSweeney's position became untenable following this episode, which exposed deep divisions within the party's leadership. The operation was widely viewed as clumsy and counterproductive, undermining rather than strengthening Starmer's authority.
Third Senior Aide to Depart Recently
McSweeney's resignation follows the recent losses of two other senior aides who were particularly close to the Prime Minister. Paul Ovenden, Starmer's director of political strategy, and Steph Driver, his communications head, have also left their positions, suggesting a significant reshuffling within the Prime Minister's inner team.
However, McSweeney's departure carries particular symbolic weight. Beginning his political career by trying to oust the hard left from Labour in Lambeth, south London, he became emblematic of Starmer's project to transform the party. His exit raises questions about the direction and stability of the current administration.
Criticism of Downing Street Operations
Despite his electoral success, McSweeney had attracted criticism from within Labour ranks. A number of MPs complained that he presided over a Downing Street operation they described as unnecessarily factional, petty, and cliquey. These criticisms suggest that while effective in winning elections, his management style created tensions that ultimately contributed to his downfall.
The resignation highlights ongoing challenges for Starmer in maintaining party unity while implementing his agenda. With three key aides now departed in quick succession, the Prime Minister faces the task of rebuilding his core team while navigating internal party dynamics.
As Labour processes this significant personnel change, attention turns to how Starmer will reorganise his Downing Street operation and address the criticisms that have surfaced. The departure of such a central figure so soon after an election victory suggests the political landscape within the party remains volatile and contested.
