Starmer’s Downing Street in turmoil as Communications Chief Tim Allan quits after just five months: Here’s why
Tim Allan exits No 10 as Starmer faces mounting pressure. Image Source: BBC
Downing Street has been plunged deeper into political uncertainty following the resignation of Tim Allan, Keir Starmer’s director of communications, less than five months after his appointment. The sudden exit makes Allan the latest senior aide to leave No 10, compounding concerns about leadership stability at the heart of the Labour government.
Allan’s departure comes within 24 hours of chief of staff Morgan McSweeney’s resignation, marking one of the most turbulent periods of Starmer’s premiership since Labour’s 2024 election victory.
Why Tim Allan Resigned from No 10
In a brief statement, Allan said he was stepping aside “to allow a new No 10 team to be built,” offering public support to the prime minister despite the growing controversy engulfing his administration.
While Downing Street insists the move was orderly, Allan’s exit is widely viewed as another casualty of the backlash over the decision to appoint Peter Mandelson as UK ambassador to the United States, a choice that has sparked outrage due to Mandelson’s past association with the late financier Jeffrey Epstein.
The controversy has intensified political pressure on Starmer, with critics arguing that the resignation of senior aides suggests systemic failures in judgment and crisis management at the top of government.
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Tim Allan, 55, brought significant experience to Downing Street, having worked closely with Sir Tony Blair during the early years of New Labour. He served as a communications adviser both in opposition and government before leaving politics in 1998 to pursue a business career.
After departing government, Allan went on to found Portland Communications, a high-profile public relations agency specialising in reputation management for corporations, public institutions and prominent individuals. His return to No 10 in September 2025 was intended to strengthen Starmer’s messaging and improve discipline across government communications.
However, his appointment was not without controversy, particularly due to Portland’s past client list, which had raised eyebrows among Labour insiders.
A Revolving Door at Downing Street Communications
Allan became the fourth person to hold the communications chief role under Starmer. His predecessors, Matthew Doyle, Steph Driver, and James Lyons, all exited the role in quick succession, reinforcing perceptions of instability within No 10.
Doyle resigned nine months after Labour entered government, while Driver and Lyons both left following internal restructuring. The rapid turnover has made it increasingly difficult for the prime minister to project a consistent public message, especially during times of political crisis.
Political Fallout and Mounting Pressure on Starmer
Allan’s resignation adds to the sense that Starmer’s inner circle is under strain, particularly following Morgan McSweeney’s decision to step down after accepting responsibility for advising on the Mandelson appointment.
Opposition figures, including Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch, have accused Starmer of allowing aides to “carry the can” for decisions approved at the highest level. Meanwhile, senior Labour sources warn that the loss of key strategists leaves the prime minister politically exposed ahead of crucial by-elections and policy battles.
Despite the turmoil, Starmer has insisted his government will “go forward with confidence”, reiterating his commitment to rebuilding trust and refocusing on core Labour priorities such as the cost of living, child poverty and the NHS.
FAQ
Who is Tim Allan?
Tim Allan is a former Downing Street communications adviser who worked under Tony Blair and later founded the PR firm Portland Communications. He returned to No 10 in 2025 as Keir Starmer’s director of communications.
Why did Tim Allan resign from Downing Street?
Allan said he stepped down to allow a new No 10 team to be built, but his resignation comes amid intense political fallout over the Peter Mandelson ambassador appointment.
How long was Tim Allan in the role?
He served as Starmer’s communications chief for just over five months, making his tenure one of the shortest in recent Downing Street history.
Is Tim Allan’s resignation linked to the Mandelson controversy?
While not officially confirmed, his exit follows the resignation of chief of staff Morgan McSweeney over the same issue, strongly suggesting a connection.
How many aides has Starmer lost recently?
Within 24 hours, Starmer lost both his chief of staff and communications director, adding to a longer list of senior departures since Labour took office.
What does this mean for Keir Starmer’s leadership?
The resignations have raised serious questions about stability, judgment, and internal cohesion within Starmer’s Downing Street operation.
Who will replace Tim Allan?
Downing Street has not yet announced a replacement, with officials indicating a broader restructuring of the No 10 communications team is underway.