U.K.'s Starmer names ex-Columbia University president as top economic adviser

U.K. Prime Minister Keir Starmer has appointed Minouche Shafik, former Columbia University President Minouche Shafik as his chief economic adviser.

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer has appointed Minouche Shafik, a former Columbia University president, as his chief economic adviser, part of efforts to bolster his team before what is set to be a difficult end to the year.

Shafik’s appointment and a move to bring Darren Jones, finance minister Rachel Reeves’ deputy, to his Downing Street office indicate that Starmer believes he needs better economic advice before a budget later this year that is expected to include further tax rises.

Jones will be replaced by Labour lawmaker James Murray, who held a more junior role in the finance ministry, Starmer’s office said in a statement.

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer at Downing Street last month.Alberto Pezzali / Getty ImagesIn a wider shake-up of Downing Street operations, Starmer also replaced his principal private secretary, who runs his team’s office, and appointed a new director of communications.

After more than a year in power, Starmer’s team has been criticized by some in his party for failing to sell his government’s sometimes difficult policy decisions and champion its successes, as Labour’s poll ratings have slumped.