Close Starmer ally Ben Nunn appointed as Rachel Reeves's chief of staff

"One of Keir Starmer's closest allies has been appointed as Rachel Reeves's chief of staff in an effort to further strengthen ties between Downing Street and the Treasury, the Guardian understands. Ben Nunn, who worked with the prime minister in opposition and is one of his most trusted advisers, will begin his new role with immediate effect."

"He was previously the chancellor's media special adviser and had been closely involved in preparations for the budget later this month, in which Reeves is expected to put up income tax in a breach of a Labour manifesto promise. Those plans are understood to have been agreed by the budget board, a group of advisers from across Downing Street and the Treasury who meet regularly to discuss the chancellor's options."

"In his new role, Nunn, 38, will play a key role linking the two operations, having worked closely with both senior politicians, becoming one of Starmer's few trusted allies at Westminster. A senior Downing Street figure said: Ben is highly respected across government and this new role is a testament to that. As chief of staff, he'll be the bridge between No 10 and No 11 and a close confidante to the prime minister."

Ben Nunn, a long-standing ally of Keir Starmer, has been appointed chief of staff to Rachel Reeves and will begin immediately. Nunn previously served as the chancellor's media special adviser and was closely involved in budget preparations, including plans for an income tax rise that would breach a Labour manifesto pledge. Those plans were agreed by the budget board, which includes advisers from Downing Street and the Treasury. In the new role Nunn will link No 10 and No 11, help prioritise the domestic economy, and support more collaborative decision-making. Katie Martin will move to a Treasury role focused on business relationships.

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