It has been claimed that Sir Keir Starmer and Rachel Reeves are no longer getting on behind the scenes.
Sir Keir Starmer and Rachel Reeves are no longer getting on behind the scenes, according to recent claims. The Prime Minister and Chancellor were once seen as closely aligned, but that is now reported to have changed. It comes as Reeves faces criticism over her time in the role and pressure from within her own party.
Some Labour MPs are reportedly unhappy with her performance and recent decisions. There are also concerns about how clearly the Government is communicating its economic plans. As a result, the relationship between the two has now been questioned.
Some Labour MPs are reportedly unhappy with Reeves’ performance and recent decisions (Image: Getty)
Writing in the Daily Mail, columnist Andrew Pierce made a strong claim about the pair.
He wrote: “They’re like two ex-lovers strapped together on a desert island. They can’t stand each other, but have nowhere else to go.”
He added: “They’re not friends, there’s no warmth, yet Starmer needs her as his lightning conductor. She’s the only one in government more unpopular than him”.
Mr Pierce said he had spoken to ministers, MPs and advisers and claimed many believe Reeves is struggling in the role and lacks political instinct.
Some Labour MPs have also criticised how she comes across in public. One MP reportedly said: “In public she is deadly serious. Robotic.”
Mr Pierce said Sir Keir still relies on Reeves in Cabinet and needs her in the role (Image: Getty)
Another critic reportedly added she sounds “like a cross between a Dalek and a claims assessor trying to explain why fire insurance doesn’t cover a blaze that has destroyed a claimant’s house”.
Mr Pierce said her approval ratings among Labour members have fallen into negative territory, while Sir Keir’s rating is only slightly higher.
He also pointed to a moment involving a proposed income tax rise. The plan was later dropped after a backlash, and insiders reportedly believe that episode damaged trust between the two.
Mr Pierce also claimed that Reeves struggles during speeches and major appearances.
Mr Pierce said that Reeves and Sir Keir are ‘like two ex-lovers strapped together’ (Image: Getty)
Some colleagues are reportedly said to have suggested voice training, saying she appears more relaxed in private.
Despite this, she remains an important figure in the Government. Mr Pierce said Sir Keir still relies on her in Cabinet and needs her in the role. He also suggested both are politically tied together going forward.
Reeves made history as the first female Chancellor and continues to lead on economic policy.
However, Mr Pierce warned that upcoming challenges could put further pressure on her position.
The Express has reached out to Downing Street and the Treasury for comment.