Sir Keir Starmer has appointed Sir Tony Blair’s former chief of staff, Jonathan Powell, as national security adviser.

The veteran diplomat, who served for 17 years at the Foreign Office, will succeed Sir Tim Barrow in the post based at 10 Downing Street.

The Prime Minister said his experience negotiating the Good Friday Agreement and working on “some of the world’s most complex conflicts” meant he was “uniquely qualified” to advise the government on global challenges .

Mr Powell was also involved in negotiations over the Chagos Islands sovereignty dispute, which earlier this year saw Britain cede the territory to Mauritius.

He is now expected to play a key role in building ties with the new US administration of Donald Trump, as well as helping to shape the UK’s response to conflicts in Ukraine and the Middle East. East.

“Jonathan has dedicated his career to protecting the country’s interests, having served for 17 years as a diplomat in the Foreign Office and 10 years as chief of staff at No 10, and I am delighted to appoint him to this important role,” » said Sir Keir.

“With his experience negotiating the Belfast (Good Friday) Agreement and working on some of the world’s most complex conflicts, he is uniquely qualified to advise the Government on how to meet the challenges ahead and to engage with counterparts around the world to protect and advance the country. British interests.

Thanking Sir Tim for his tenure during “some of the most difficult times in recent history”, the Prime Minister added: “I am confident he will continue to play a positive role on these issues in the future. »

There had been speculation under the previous Conservative government that Sir Tim would replace Dame Karen Pierce as Britain’s ambassador to the United States, but she is now expected to remain in the post.

“Having known Jonathan Powell for many years, I know he is very well qualified for this position. He will provide excellent support to the Prime Minister and the national security community,” Sir Tim said.

Mr Powell said: “I am honored to have been appointed National Security Advisor to the Prime Minister. This is an extremely important role at a time when national security, international relations and domestic policies are closely intertwined.

“As the Prime Minister has indicated, national security is at the heart of this country’s response to the many challenges we face and an integrated response will be essential to our success. I look forward to advising the Prime Minister and working closely with Ministers and officials in this new role.

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