Keir Starmer’s Director of Communications Steph Driver resigns

Downing Street has confirmed that Steph Driver, Sir Keir Starmer’s Director of Communications and one of his closest advisers, has resigned from her role.

Driver, widely regarded as one of Starmer’s most trusted aides, was urged to stay on by several senior figures but chose to step down after discussions with the Prime Minister and his Chief of Staff, Morgan McSweeney, about changes to Labour’s communications operation. Her departure also follows a period of leave after a family bereavement.

In a statement, the Prime Minister paid tribute to her contribution:
“Steph Driver has been a loyal and valued member of my team for almost five years. Steph played a leading role in transforming the Labour party and delivering our historic general election win. I will for ever be grateful for her calm, wise counsel, leadership and humour. I wish her all the best in her undoubted onward success.”

Driver reflected warmly on her time in the role, describing it as “an honour” to have advised Starmer through opposition and into government:
“Being part of the team to rebuild and rebrand the Labour party before securing an historic general election victory is an achievement and experience like no other. I’m also proud of what this government has already delivered, and thank the sharp and talented No 10 press team for their hard work and support during my tenure. I’m grateful to the Prime Minister for his continued faith in me and my work, and for his offer of an open door in the future. His Labour government has my unwavering support.”

Driver’s exit marks the first major senior departure from Starmer’s No 10 team since Labour’s election victory, and comes amid ongoing discussions about reshaping Downing Street’s media and communications strategy.