Reform UK leader Nigel Farage has strongly criticised Prime Minister Keir Starmer following the appointment of former Prime Minister Gordon Brown as a special envoy on global finance. Reacting on social media, Farage stated: "An unpopular Prime Minister who lost a general election is now seen by Starmer as being the saviour. Labour are doomed."
Brown Returns in Advisory Role
Gordon Brown has been appointed as special envoy on global finance, where he will provide advice on international financial cooperation and support efforts related to economic security and defence investment. Downing Street confirmed that the move aims to strengthen the UK's global financial partnerships, with Brown expected to collaborate with international leaders and institutions in a part-time, unpaid capacity.
Announcing the appointment, Starmer said, "As Britain's longest-serving Chancellor, Gordon is well placed to work with our international allies to build a stronger Britain and boost our country's security and resilience." In response to political pressure, Starmer has also appointed former deputy leader Harriet Harman as adviser on women and girls, alongside Brown's return, as part of a broader effort to reset his government after the recent election setback.
Labour Hit Hard by Local Election Losses
The appointments come after Labour suffered heavy losses in the 2026 local elections, losing more than 1,300 council seats across England. The party lost control in key areas including Manchester, Salford, Wigan, and Oldham, and also faced setbacks in Wales and Scotland. These results sparked internal criticism and renewed scrutiny of Starmer's leadership, even as senior ministers publicly backed him.
Reform UK Claims Momentum After Gains
Simultaneously, Reform UK has been celebrating strong gains in the local elections. "It's a big, big day, not just for our party but for a complete reshaping of British politics in every way," Farage said. The party took control of councils including Essex and Sunderland and also made inroads in several traditional Labour and Conservative strongholds. Reform has described the results as a "historic shift" in British politics.
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