In a strategic move to enhance the UK government leadership team, the Prime Minister has appointed Darren Jones MP as Chief Secretary and Baroness Minouche Shafik as Chief Economic Advisor, aiming to drive economic growth and address key policy areas.

The Prime Minister has announced significant appointments within Downing Street. On 1 September 2025, Darren Jones MP was appointed as the new Chief Secretary (Minister of State) to the Prime Minister. This newly created role involves working collaboratively across the UK Government to ensure the successful implementation of critical policies and priorities directly under the Prime Minister's direction. 

Additionally, Baroness Shafik has been appointed as the Chief Economic Advisor, a position aimed at enhancing the government's economic strategy. Baroness Shafik is a well-established economist, and brings a wealth of experience from her previous roles, including in the UK’s Department for International Development and at the IMF. She also served as Deputy Governor of the Bank of England, as well as academic roles at Columbia University in New York, and at LSE in London. Her expertise will play a vital role in driving economic growth and improving living standards throughout the UK. 

Both appointments coincide with the return of Parliament, indicating a new term focused on the pursuit of the government’s "Plan for Change". 

The Prime Minister emphasized that these appointments are designed to bolster the government's efforts in delivering on their objectives and addressing the pressing needs of citizens. In the announcement the UK government describes the appointments as representing a proactive approach from the government to support UK citizens in a rapidly evolving economic landscape.

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_{^{Image Credits: gov.uk}}