A dramatic coda to Keir Starmer's tumultuous tenure as Prime Minister has unfolded at a farewell gathering in London, where the seeds of a new faction within the Labour Party may have been sown. The event, hosted just hours after his departure from Downing Street, was marked by scenes of revelry and recrimination, as dozens of former ministers and aides gathered to bid farewell to their departing leader.
The gathering at the Grafton pub in Kentish Town saw numerous high-profile figures receive news of their dismissal from ministerial positions. These included Rachel Reeves, who declined the role of Education Secretary, Richard Hermer, a long-time associate of Starmer's, and Darren Jones, formerly the Prime Minister's Chief Secretary. Additionally, Steve Reed, the Housing Secretary, Nick Thomas-Symonds, the chief EU negotiator, and Hilary Benn, Northern Ireland Secretary, were also ousted.
Sources close to the gathering reported a palpable sense of anger among those who felt penalised for their loyalty to Starmer. One attendee described the atmosphere as “toxic”, with some attendees accusing the new administration of targeting Starmer's allies in a deliberate purge. This sentiment has sparked speculation that the dismissals are not merely a matter of reorganisation, but rather a calculated attempt to reshape the party.
New Prime Minister Andy Burnham has sought to reassure critics that his cabinet selections reflect the diversity of the Labour Party and the nation as a whole. He has vowed to adopt a “one-team approach”, although analysis suggests his first cabinet boasts a better gender balance than any in history, albeit with a higher proportion of privately educated individuals compared to Starmer's administration.
The group of former ministers and aides, estimated at around 11 former cabinet members, is now contemplating their next move. While some may choose to support the new administration, others are likely to maintain a watchful eye, ready to highlight perceived shortcomings and uphold their influence within the party.