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PM turns to old Labour hands after election losses but some MPs left baffled
Following heavy election losses, Keir Starmer appoints Gordon Brown as a special envoy on global finance and Harriet Harman as an adviser on tackling violence against women and girls, in a bid to refresh his leadership. The moves have caused bafflement among some Labour MPs as Starmer announces a major speech and policy programme for next week.
Why It Matters
The appointments signal an attempt to shore up the prime minister's position and to broaden policy directions, amid internal dissent and demands for leadership clarity.
Timeline
7 Events
PM plans a reset: major speech and new programme of legislation
May 9, 2026
Sir Keir Starmer plans to reset his premiership next week with a major speech and an unveiling of a new programme of legislation, signaling a refresh of the government.
Deputy leader supports staying but warns against internal leadership debate
May 9, 2026
Labour's deputy leader Lucy Powell insists Starmer should stay and argues Labour should reflect and listen, warning that debating leadership would be damaging; she notes concerns about future electoral outcomes.
Calls for leadership change or transition process
May 9, 2026
Up to 30 Labour MPs publicly call for Sir Keir Starmer to resign or outline a process for an orderly leadership transition.
Bafflement among Labour MPs and officials
May 9, 2026
Labour ministers, MPs and officials express confusion about appointing veteran Labour figures from the party's past, with some saying the choice does not align with the promised change in the party.
Promotional video released featuring Keir Starmer with Brown and Harman
May 9, 2026
Sir Keir Starmer posts a social media video showing him with Gordon Brown, Chancellor Rachel Reeves, and Harriet Harman in Downing Street's back garden, stating that they will build a stronger and fairer Britain.
Brown and Harman appointed to roles; meeting at Downing Street
May 9, 2026
Downing Street announces Gordon Brown as special envoy on global finance and Harriet Harman as adviser on tackling violence against women and girls. Brown and Harman had met Sir Keir Starmer in Downing Street before the announcements to discuss their roles.
Labour suffers heavy losses and leadership pressure grows
May 8, 2026
General election results are announced with Labour suffering heavy losses. Up to 30 Labour MPs publicly call for Sir Keir Starmer to resign or outline an orderly transition timetable, reflecting mounting pressure on the prime minister.