Starmer's Government Considered Moving From Downing Street

Discussions were held within Sir Keir Starmer's government regarding a potential move from 10 Downing Street, citing concerns over its functionality as a modern workplace. Senior figures from the administration revealed that moving staff to an open-plan office in another government department was considered.

James Lyons, who served as Starmer's director of communications, stated that "moving out was something that was discussed" during his tenure. Two other senior officials confirmed these discussions, indicating that a space within the Foreign Office building was identified as a potential alternative location. These individuals stressed that the discussions did not progress beyond an initial phase and it is unknown if Starmer himself was directly involved in these deliberations. The possibility of relocating staff would not have affected the prime minister's official residence.

10 Downing Street, a historic building over 300 years old, is a complex amalgamation of three houses comprising more than 100 rooms. Lord Walker, a former adviser to Starmer and the boss of supermarket Iceland, described the building as no longer "fit for purpose." He suggested it could be converted into residences or a museum, acknowledging its historical significance while deeming its current state impractical for government operations due to its layout and numerous levels.

Lyons echoed these sentiments, posting on LinkedIn that "Lord Walker is 100% right." He described the current Downing Street office as a "gloomy, mice-infested, bomb-curtained rabbit warren" and expressed that staff were "deeply envious" of other government departments' working environments. Lyons' statement implied that the practical challenges of the building contributed to internal discussions about relocating.

One source indicated that "there were chats at senior staff level about moving to an open plan office in FCDO" (Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office). While this plan did not advance significantly, the seriousness of the underlying issues related to staff collaboration was a key driver for the conversations. The aim was to create an environment where staff could work more collaboratively.

These considerations emerge in the context of broader reform efforts within government. Darren Jones, who served as Starmer's chief secretary, previously told MPs that he attempted to abolish the Cabinet Office three times without success. He advocated for a new integrated department to eliminate barriers and foster better teamwork.

Following his succession, Andy Burnham established the Office for the Prime Minister and Cabinet, a move seen as an effort to enhance governmental efficiency. This new office consolidates key departments, including Number 10 and parts of the Cabinet Office, under the leadership of the UK's most senior civil servant, Dame Antonia Romeo. The government stated that this consolidation aims to focus the center of government on strategic priorities. Sources close to Burnham indicate he has not yet formed a definitive opinion on the suitability of Downing Street as a functional workplace.