Keir Starmer has initiated changes within No 10, including reassigning an aide whose appointment had been contentious following Sue Gray’s exit last year.
Nin Pandit, the prime minister’s senior civil service aide, will depart her position after fewer than 10 months. Insiders at No 10 clarified she had not resigned but would transition to a new policy-focused role, with the prime minister assuming greater oversight of government operations.
CuriosityNews has learned that Pandit—once commended by Dominic Cummings as one of "the brilliant women around the table" who could have outperformed Boris Johnson as prime minister—will be succeeded by Dan York-Smith as Starmer’s principal private secretary.
York-Smith’s hiring reflects No 10’s aim to strengthen economic expertise. Speculation has circulated that Starmer sought to bolster his policy unit with additional economic and infrastructure specialists, though no formal announcements have been made. York-Smith, a seasoned Treasury official, has directed economic strategy for six chancellors and managed tax and welfare matters.
Sources in Downing Street indicated further adjustments are expected but emphasized that cabinet secretary Chris Wormald retains his post despite claims from some colleagues questioning his effectiveness.
A No 10 representative dismissed suggestions that Pandit was dismissed or sidelined, affirming she retains the prime minister’s confidence and will continue playing a central role. Her new position has not yet been disclosed.
Pandit, a former NHS digital leader, joined No 10 to concentrate on health policy before rising to lead its policy unit and later serving as the prime minister’s principal private secretary.
Her initial appointment to this key government role sparked tensions last autumn when Sue Gray reportedly preferred civil servant Daniel Gieve for the position. At the time, Pandit had support from Morgan McSweeney, who assumed Gray’s role as chief of staff after her departure.
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