One former member of the Grammy-winning band Clean Bandit has been appointed as a senior Special Adviser to the Chancellor of the Exchequer. Neil Amin-Smith, who was the violinist in the band, started his political career in 2019 after leaving the music group. Amin-Smith, along with Grace Chatto and brothers Jack and Luke Patterson, formed Clean Bandit in Cambridge in 2008 while he was studying History.
Before the release of Clean Bandit’s debut album, New Eyes, Amin-Smith obtained an MPhil in Economics, which later contributed to his role at the Treasury. The band gained popularity with their hit song “Rather Be,” featuring Jess Glynne, which topped the charts for four weeks and sold over 1.1 million copies. Despite the band’s success, Amin-Smith departed in 2016.
Following his music career, Amin-Smith worked as a research economist at the Institute for Fiscal Studies before transitioning to a senior policy adviser role at the Treasury in 2019. Initially collaborating with Rachel Reeves on policy matters affecting the City of London, Amin-Smith was recognized for his expertise in economic affairs.
Despite changes in government positions, Amin-Smith’s role has evolved, and he has been appointed as a Special Adviser by Prime Minister Andy Burnham. The new Chancellor, John Healey, has announced that his first Budget will prioritize decentralizing power and resources across Britain, emphasizing fiscal responsibility and stability for businesses and families.
In a recent Cabinet reshuffle, Burnham appointed Ed Miliband as Foreign Secretary and Wes Streeting as the head of the Ministry of Defence, reflecting significant changes in key government positions. This restructuring marks a strategic shift in government priorities and leadership roles under Burnham’s administration.
