Behind the Bonhomie: Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s Determined Governance Style Sets a New Course from Blair and Cameron

Beware the casual 'call me Keir' facade – this prime minister is all about serious governance. Sir Keir Starmer appears ready to depart from the casual governance styles of former leaders Sir Tony Blair and Lord Cameron.

Senior political reporter @joncraig

Sunday, July 7, 2024, 2:

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It appears to be a case of "Call me Keir", doesn't it? It comes off as quite casual. However, we must not be deceived.

During his inaugural news conference at Downing Street, he expressed contentment with being addressed either by his first name, Keir, or as prime minister. "I'm perfectly fine with being called Keir," he stated.

In a classic move by Sir Tony Blair, he initiated his first cabinet meeting in 1997 with a casual directive to his ministers, saying, "Just call me Tony."

Sir Tony was also recognized for his "sofa government" approach, which involved casual, informal gatherings with advisors such as Jonathan Powell and Alastair Campbell, excluding civil servants and without any formal record-keeping.

This approach shocked officials in Whitehall and conservatives, who argued that it resulted in lack of discipline and ineffective decisions. Of course, that’s what they would claim.

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Lord Cameron was humorously nicknamed "Call me Dave," faced criticism for his relaxed approach to his duties, and was labeled an "essay crisis prime minister" for his handling of urgent matters.

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Discussion Points:

What insights did we gain into Keir Starmer's approach during his initial press briefing at Downing Street?

Based on his initial days at Number 10, despite his friendly "Call me Keir" approach, he appears to have adopted a formal and professional demeanor rather than a casual and relaxed one.

Stay informed with the most recent updates from the UK and across the globe by tuning into Sky News.

During his tenure as the Director of Public Prosecutions, colleagues referred to him not as "Keir" but as "the director," based on accounts from individuals who collaborated with him at the time.

On the inaugural day of his new role, it was noteworthy that his individual sessions with the new cabinet members took place in the cabinet room, exhibiting a formal and professional demeanor.

Historically, on days when cabinet reshuffles occurred, particularly those involving dismissals, the prime minister has preferred to conduct these sensitive discussions in the private and cozy setting of their study.

Every image released of the new prime minister at work in 10 Downing Street, including during his telephone conversation with President Biden, shows him dressed formally in a suit and tie.

Sir Tony was frequently captured on camera at Number 10 dressed casually without his jacket and often without a tie. Meanwhile, Rishi Sunak became familiar to us as he worked in Number 10, often wearing a hoodie paired with either designer sneakers or slip-on sandals.

At his press conference, insights were gained into Starmer's approach and his plans for the coming months. He started by indicating that tackling corruption would be a priority from the outset.

"He explained that his meeting with Laurie Magnus, the independent standards advisor, was focused on discussing the execution of government duties," he noted, implying a cautionary tone towards his ministers that they should conduct themselves properly.

There wasn't a groundbreaking revelation similar to Gordon Brown granting the Bank of England independence following Mr. Blair's sweeping 1997 victory. However, since that occurred on the Tuesday following the election, there might still be time for a major surprise!

His upcoming tour across four countries, coupled with discussions with metro-mayors from both the Conservative and Labour parties, also sheds light on Starmer's approach.

He asserted, "I don't engage in tribal politics."

It's still quite early, yet it's refreshing to see a shift from the previous Conservative leaders' strategy of excluding first ministers and mayors, largely due to their differing political affiliations.

He also shows appreciation for specialists, which marks a shift. Recall Michael Gove's contempt for them in the 2016 EU referendum campaign? "I think the people of this country have had enough of experts," he mocked.

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It appears that Sir Keir simply can’t resist them.

On his first day in office, he named James Timpson, the head of a shoe repair company known for hiring many former inmates, as the minister for prisons, and Sir Patrick Vallance, the past chief scientific adviser, as the minister for science.

He disclosed, "We have been in discussions with them for a while regarding the necessary changes we are planning to implement." By 'we', he undoubtedly referred to Sue Gray, his chief of staff and a seasoned Whitehall insider, who likely handled the negotiations.

In response to inquiries about additional peerages for experts, he mentioned that new appointments were expected very soon. Shortly thereafter, Lords leader Baroness Smith was seen entering Number 10, presumably to discuss peerages and matters concerning Lords ministers.

Will we witness a resurgence of Gordon Brown's approach of forming a "government of all the talents," similar to when he took over from Sir Tony in 2007? During that transition, he included notable figures such as former CBI chief Digby Jones and ex-First Sea Lord West in his administration.

Discover more: Get to know the key figures in Prime Minister Keir Starmer's closest team and insights from Sky News specialists on the major challenges he confronts.

Sir Keir revealed that although he previously mentioned his family's reluctance to relocate to Number 10, they will indeed be moving there after the election. This outcome was expected all along.

"He indicated that they are still in the process of unpacking. However, he assured that they would be settled in shortly after the upcoming NATO summit in Washington next week."

During the press briefing, it was evident from his body language and overall demeanor that Sir Keir appears quite comfortable and self-assured in his role. Of course, it's still the beginning. The real test will come when challenges arise!

As he starts to assert his control over cabinet members, Downing Street aides, and the governmental bureaucracy, it remains to be seen how long the moniker "Call me Keir" will endure.

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