Labour Group Demands Sacking of National Security Adviser Over Wife's Comments

A prominent Labour group is urging the Prime Minister to dismiss National Security Adviser Jonathan Powell, citing security concerns stemming from his wife Sarah Helm's public statements. Labour Against Antisemitism has formally requested Powell's resignation or termination, asserting that Helm's comments pose a risk to national security.

Helm, an author and former Middle East correspondent, recently faced scrutiny for a social media post in which she expressed support for Palestine Action, a group banned in the UK. While police cleared her of criminal wrongdoing in that instance, Labour Against Antisemitism has raised concerns about other statements she has made, including one referring to "the Jewish lobby" and its influence.

In a letter to the Prime Minister, the group stated that partners of individuals holding Developed Vetting clearance are subject to vetting themselves, and that either Powell lacks full clearance, or vetting overlooked these concerns. The group emphasized its commitment to a "zero tolerance" policy on antisemitism and argued that Powell's position is "untenable."

This call for Powell's removal is echoed by Conservative figures. Shadow home affairs minister Alicia Kearns has also written to the Prime Minister, questioning the handling of sensitive national security information and whether Powell retains the confidence of his office.

However, the Prime Minister's official spokesperson has stated that the Prime Minister has confidence in Powell, describing his wife's comments as individual views that do not represent the government. The spokesperson characterized Powell as "one of the finest diplomats of our generation."

Further controversy arose when Helm appeared to suggest her husband played a minimal role in the Government's decision to proscribe Palestine Action in July 2025. When asked by a social media user if Powell was instrumental in the ban, Helm responded negatively. Separately, footage emerged where Helm stated she discussed Powell's work at Number 10 with him daily.

Palestine Action's proscription makes membership or support of the group a criminal offense, punishable by up to 14 years in prison. Helm's comment regarding the group was made during a discussion about author Sally Rooney, who had stated she could no longer sell her books in the UK due to her support for Palestine Action.

The issue has also been raised in the House of Lords, where Liberal Democrat peer Lord Palmer questioned whether Powell is "over-influenced by the comments his wife has made." Cabinet Office minister Baroness Twycross responded by emphasizing the distinction between government employees and their families, and stated that Helm does not represent the government.

Shadow Foreign Office minister Lord Callanan pressed for clarification on how Helm knew of her husband's involvement, or lack thereof, in the Palestine Action proscription decision. Baroness Twycross did not directly answer the question but reiterated that the decision was a government one and that the government's position on the group is clear.