Labour Aides Accused of Cronyism in Government Roles

Two staffers from the Labour Party have recently been appointed to significant positions within Downing Street, raising concerns over cronyism. Mitchell Burns-Jackson, who has previously worked for Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer and Chief of Staff Sue Gray, has taken on the role of executive assistant to Gray. Meanwhile, Annie-Rose Peterman, who has experience working for Starmer and Emily Thornberry, has reportedly replaced a civil servant as the Prime Minister's diary manager. These appointments follow the news that Jess Sargeant, director of a Labour think-tank, has been appointed as a Cabinet Office adviser on constitutional reform. Sources claim that Sargeant, who has a background with the Institute for Government, was hired for her expertise and will not engage in matters related to ethics or ministerial investigations, areas previously overseen by Gray. Additionally, two business figures with connections to Labour donations have secured senior roles in government departments. Ian Corfield, a former banker who has donated £20,000 to MPs, has been appointed Director of Investment in HM Treasury. Emily Middleton, who contributed over £65,000 to Peter Kyle's campaign, has become a Director General in the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology. Critics, including shadow paymaster general John Glen and Reform UK, have voiced concerns that the influx of Labour figures into civil service roles undermines the integrity and impartiality of the civil service. A Cabinet Office spokesperson declined to comment on specific staffing appointments.