Close Starmer ally Ben Nunn appointed as Rachel Reeves’s chief of staff | Labour

One of Keir Starmer’s closest allies has been appointed private secretary to Rachel Reeves in a bid to further strengthen ties between Downing Street and the Treasury, the Guardian understands.

Ben Nunn, who worked with the prime minister in the opposition and is one of his most trusted advisers, will take up his new position immediately.

He was previously the Chancellor’s special adviser on media and was closely involved in preparations for the budget later this month, in which Reeves is expected to impose an income tax, in breach of a promise he made in the Labor Party manifesto.

These plans are understood to have been accepted by the budget board, a group of advisers from Downing Street and the Treasury who meet regularly to discuss the Chancellor’s options.

In his new role, Nunn, 38, will play a key role linking the two operations, working closely with two senior politicians to become one of Starmer’s few trusted allies in Westminster.

A senior Downing Street figure said: “Ben is highly respected across the government and this new role is testament to that. As chief of staff, he will be the bridge between No 10 and No 11 and will be a close confidant of the prime minister.”

Nunn is understood to be in talks with the prime minister and chancellor about taking on a more senior role in government in the autumn. At one point, the options included being appointed to number 10. He will now work closely with the chancellor, as well as Starmer and his chief of staff Morgan McSweeney.

Labor insiders believe he will foster a more collaborative relationship between No 10 and the Treasury to prioritize the domestic economy as an issue in Downing Street, while also helping to avoid damaging political decisions such as last year’s winter fuel allowance cut.

Katie Martin, who has been chief of staff for nearly five years, will take on a new role at the Treasury focused on strengthening the government’s frayed ties with business.

Reeves said: “I’m delighted that Katie Martin has continued to support me in government, having played a central role as my most trusted advisor and business advisor for nearly five years. Labor won the election last year in no small part due to her leadership and dedication.

“Ben has been a pivotal figure in the Labor Party and this government over the last decade. His insight, expertise and strategic thinking will be crucial as we continue to focus on building stronger foundations to reduce NHS waiting lists, reduce the national debt and lower the cost of living.”

Martin will remain a special adviser until the end of the year before taking up his new role as business adviser to the chancellor in January.