Who’s who in Westminster?
Following Andy Burnham’s appointment as Prime Minister, many of the key advisers from the Starmer Government have moved on. While some have remained in post or taken on new roles, a significant number of new faces are now shaping policy from behind the black door of No. 10 and across Whitehall.
The structure of No. 10, spanning the Political Office, Communications Department and Policy Unit, remains largely unchanged, but the people within it have not.
This directory profiles some of the key advisers helping to deliver the Prime Minister’s 10 Year Plan, which Burnham has described as a “circuit breaker for Britain”.
Sign in to access the full guide, featuring profiles of more than 100 Special Advisers, political appointees and key figures across Government.
Special Advisers.
Special Advisers (SpAds) are the political eyes and ears of Ministers. They play a crucial role in supporting Government Ministers by providing politically informed advice and assistance.
Distinct from the permanent Civil Service, they ensure the political impartiality of civil servants is maintained by clearly distinguishing the source of political guidance.
There is currently a review of No. 10’s policy, strategy and delivery functions, with conclusions expected in October. As a result, a number of policy roles are being covered on an interim basis by civil servants and direct ministerial appointments.
The review coincides with the expiry of many temporary contract extensions put in place as the Starmer administration drew to a close, so further personnel changes and a significant reshaping of No. 10’s operation are expected this autumn.
The profiles below offer a snapshot of the advisers shaping the Burnham Government. Sign in to access the full guide, featuring detailed profiles of more than 100 Special Advisers, political appointees and key figures across Whitehall.
James Purnell
Chief of Staff
Luke Sullivan
Special Adviser and Chief of Staff to the Chief Whip
Sarah Brown
Director of Strategic Communications
Caroline Simpson
Chief of Staff – No. 10 North
Kevin Lee
Special Adviser to the Prime Minister
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