Under-fire Reeves sidelined in surprise reshuffle by PM

Sir Keir Starmer has moved to toughen up his government by bringing Rachel Reeves's former deputy from the Treasury to strengthen his Downing Street operation.

- DAVID MADDOX ALICJA HAGOPIAN MILLIE COOKE

With Labour languishing eight points behind Reform in the polls and a sense that Sir Keir is not in control of the political agenda, Darren Jones has been moved to a new role of chief secretary to the prime minister.

Sir Keir has also brought in world-leading economist Minouche Shafik as his new chief economic adviser in a move that will allow him to take more control of economic policy.

The shakeup follows growing criticism of Ms Reeves, who faces a difficult few months ahead amid growing speculation that she is likely to have to announce major tax rises in the Budget. While she is expected to remain in post, her authority - and the power of the Treasury, which has been vehemently criticised by Labour backbenchers - will be much diluted.

Mr Jones is replaced as chief Treasury secretary by loyalist James Murray, while Daniel Tomlinson, who only became an MP last year, is promoted to a junior Treasury ministerial role.

Mr Jones, who will report directly to the prime minister, has been seen as a rising star in the government and giving him a key role in Sir Keir’s Downing Street team is seen as a major power move by the prime minister. It is hoped his arrival will bring new political leadership to the central operation, as well as giving the prime minister more of an insight into the workings of the Treasury.