Former Tony Blair aide who led Chagos ‘surrender’ deal lands top national security job
SIR Tony Blair’s former top aide who recently negotiated the controversial “surrender” of the Chagos Islands has been put in charge of Britain’s national security.
Jonathan Powell – who served as No10 chief of staff from 1997-2007 – was today appointed National Security Adviser by Sir Keir Starmer.
He goes back into Downing Street fresh off leading talks to relinquish the British Indian Overseas Territory to Mauritius.
The deal has sparked fury from many Tory MPs who accused Labour of selling out the strategically-vital islands to an ally of China.
Shadow Justice Secretary Robert Jenrick said: “Meet the new National Security Advisor, who trades away our national security to please the diplomatic elite.”
Mr Powell succeeds Sir Tim Barrow who has served as National Security Adviser since September 2022.
The post is one of the most senior positions in Government and provides the PM with updates and advice on global threats.
As Sir Tony’s most powerful adviser, he was at the heart of the 1998 Good Friday Agreement that brought peace to Northern Ireland.
Sir Keir said: “Jonathan has devoted his career to protecting the interests of the country, having served for seventeen years as a diplomat in the Foreign Office and ten years as Chief of Staff in No10, and I am delighted to appoint him to this important role.
“Together with his experience helping to negotiate the Belfast (Good Friday) Agreement and work on some of the world’s most complex conflicts, he is uniquely qualified to advise the Government on tackling the challenges ahead and engage with counterparts across the globe to protect and advance UK interests.
Mr Powell said: “As the Prime Minister has set out, national security is at the heart of this country’s response to the many challenges we face and having an integrated response will be crucial to our success.
“I look forward to advising the Prime Minister and working closely with Ministers and officials in this new role.”