The old mate Andy Burnham has tapped to run his Downing Street
Andy Burnham, the likely next UK prime minister, intends to appoint his long‑time friend James Purnell as chief of staff if he takes office on July 17. Purnell, a former Blair‑era adviser, has held roles in think tanks, media, academia and as chief executive of Flint Global. The move follows recent turnover in Downing Street staff under former leader Keir Starmer and places Purnell under pressure to shape the government’s agenda ahead of a projected 2029 election.
- ▪Burnham and Purnell, both born in 1970, worked together as special advisers under Tony Blair and share a long personal and professional history.
- ▪Purnell’s career includes positions at a think tank, as a media executive, university vice‑chancellor and CEO of the advisory firm Flint Global.
- ▪Burnham’s predecessor Keir Starmer resigned after employing two chiefs of staff in quick succession, highlighting the importance of a trusted aide.
- ▪If appointed, Purnell would be expected to translate Burnham’s priorities into Whitehall policy before the next general election, scheduled for 2029.
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News Politics The old mate Andy Burnham has tapped to run his Downing Street Supporters of Britain’s likely next prime minister are putting faith in longstanding friend James Purnell — hoping he will be the Goldilocks chief of staff: part bureaucrat, part strategist. Copy Link Copied Share via email Share on X Share on WhatsApp Share on LinkedIn Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham speaks as he celebrates his victory in Makerfield, England on June 19, 2026. | Ryan Jenkinson/Getty Images June 26, 2026 4:00 am CET By Dan Bloom LONDON — Just before 10 p.m. on election night in 2009, the Blairite Cabinet minister James Purnell phoned Gordon Brown to resign. His shock-and-awe attempt to topple the prime minister flashed up on TVs in No. 10 Downing Street before he had even finished the call.
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