Former top aide of Keir Starmer criticizes the hindrance caused by the “weirdness of Whitehall” on the Government’s progress. Paul Ovenden, who previously served as No10’s director of strategy, expressed concerns about the dominance of a “Stakeholder State” undermining the power of voters and ministers. He highlighted the excessive influence exerted by non-governmental organizations, activist lawyers, and celebrity-driven campaigns.
Ovenden cited the case of activist Alaa Abd El-Fattah, whose controversial social media posts surfaced following the PM’s acknowledgment of his release from imprisonment in Egypt. He emphasized the significant distraction caused by such fringe issues within No10, urging for a swift dismantling of the system to address the desires of the electorate.
In his recent commentary in the Times, Ovenden emphasized the urgent need for a more decisive approach by the Government to counteract the Stakeholder State’s impact on policy execution. He criticized the prioritization of consultations and reviews over essential tasks like infrastructure development, attributing it to a shift of influence away from voters towards well-funded interest groups.
Ovenden suggested that a resolute government could swiftly address these challenges, regain its momentum, and fulfill the public’s demands for meaningful change. Separately, a former New Labour strategist, Sir Chris Powell, cautioned Keir Starmer against underestimating the threat posed by populist parties like Reform UK. Powell stressed the necessity for proactive engagement to prevent the entrenchment of alternative political forces among disillusioned voters.
As Starmer faces mounting pressure to recalibrate his strategy ahead of upcoming local elections, efforts to realign with party members and voters are underway, with a focus on addressing key issues such as the cost of living. In response to oversights related to El-Fattah’s social media activities, Yvette Cooper has initiated a review to rectify information lapses and ensure timely action on concerning content.
