The Labour party is reeling after former Transport Secretary Louise Haigh's explosive allegations that a group of men close to Keir Starmer mistreated women in his cabinet. Speaking out about her own experiences, Ms Haigh paints a damning picture of a 'boys' club' culture at the heart of government, where women were subjected to 'sexist and unpleasant' briefing in the press. Her claims, which include naming several senior female figures as victims of this treatment, have raised serious questions about the leadership style of Mr Starmer.
Ms Haigh's resignation from the cabinet in 2024 was already shrouded in controversy, following revelations that she had pleaded guilty to fraudulently reporting a lost mobile phone as stolen. Despite maintaining that she had disclosed this information to Mr Starmer years earlier, Ms Haigh felt the subsequent briefings were a 'deliberate attempt to knock my character down'. She has now accused these same individuals of orchestrating 'consistently and viciously' negative press briefings against her.
The circumstances surrounding her exit have long been seen as a contributing factor to Mr Starmer's eventual downfall. As a key figure in the 'welfare rebellion', which weakened his authority, Ms Haigh went on to campaign for Andy Burnham, who is now poised to become Prime Minister. With reports suggesting she will secure a cabinet role in the incoming government, her allegations are set to have significant implications for Labour's future.
Ms Haigh has been vocal about her plans for reform, advocating for a strengthened economic unit within No 10 to provide the Prime Minister with comprehensive advice and challenge decisions made by the Chancellor. While she has ruled out becoming Chancellor herself, her proposal to split the Treasury will not be pursued in this parliamentary term.
In light of these allegations, Labour's ability to address its own 'boys' club' culture will come under intense scrutiny. As the party looks to rebuild and move forward, Ms Haigh's claims are a stark reminder of the need for genuine reform and accountability at the highest levels of government.