Among Keir Starmer’s most trusted associates has been selected as Rachel Reeves’s chief of staff, in an effort to enhance ties between Downing Street and the Exchequer, according to reports.
Ben Nunn, who collaborated with the prime minister during the pre-government period and is a key strategist, will assume his duties starting immediately.
He was previously the finance minister's media special adviser and had been deeply engaged in planning for the financial statement later this month, in which Reeves is expected to put up personal taxation, contrary to a campaign pledge.
Those proposals are believed to be approved by the budget board, a group of advisers from throughout Downing Street and the Treasury who convene frequently to review the chancellor’s strategies.
In his fresh position, Nunn, 38, will play a key role connecting the both offices, having worked closely with both top leaders, emerging as Starmer’s key confidants at Westminster.
“Ben is widely esteemed across government and this new role is a testament to that. As chief of staff, he’ll be the bridge between No 10 and the Treasury and a close confidante to the prime minister.”
Nunn is understood to have had talks with the PM and the finance chief over the autumn about assuming a higher position in the administration. At one point the options included a post in No 10. He will work now closely with Starmer and his chief of staff, Morgan McSweeney, as well as the chancellor.
Party sources believe he will build on the improved cooperative partnership between No 10 and the Treasury to prioritise the domestic economy as an priority within the government, and also help to avoid damaging political decisions like last year’s winter fuel allowance cut.
Katie Martin, who served as top aide for almost five years, will take on a new role in the Treasury centered around strengthening the administration's strained relations with the corporate sector.
Reeves said: “Katie Martin has been my key counselor for almost half a decade and I’m pleased she will continue to support me in government, playing a central role as my corporate advisor. Labour secured victory last year in no small part because of her leadership and commitment.
“Ben has been a pivotal figure in the party and this administration over the last ten years. His foresight, expertise and strategic thinking will be essential as we continue to focus on laying a solid groundwork to reduce health service delays, cut the national debt and cut the cost of living.”
Martin will remain as a special adviser until the end of the year before starting her new role as the finance minister's corporate counselor in the new year.
