After 15 months as Labour leader, Ed Miliband has finally appointed a permanent chief of staff. Tim Livesey, a former diplomat who is currently the Archbishop of Canterbury’s secretary for international affairs, has been given the job. The appointment will inevitably be seen through the prism of Miliband’s current woes but has reportedly been planned for some time.
The Labour leader said:
Tim has a wealth of knowledge and experience of Whitehall and Westminster.
He is also someone who brings deep values and commitment to making Britain a fairer, more just country. I look forward to him putting these skills and ideals into practice to help us as an effective Opposition and an alternative to this Government.
Labour List reports that Lucy Powell, who has been Miliband’s acting chief of staff since his election as leader, will take on the role of deputy chief of staff, “with responsibility for political and external relationships”.
On what feel likes the quietest political day of the year, the announcement has come as a surprise. But if Livesey lives up to his billing, this will prove a smart move.
Content from our partners
Related
