Keir Starmer’s former chief of staff, Morgan McSweeney, has called for a rethink of quasi-judicial powers held by cabinet ministers, arguing that these processes block broader cabinet discussions and prime ministerial input on matters of national importance.
Call to Review Quasi-Judicial Powers and Government Rules
Appearing before the House of Lords constitution committee, McSweeney stated that quasi-judicial processes obstruct government work. While he did not provide specific examples, key decisions of this nature under Starmer have included determinations regarding the Rosebank and Jackdaw oil and gas fields, as well as the approval authority for a new Chinese super-embassy in east London.
McSweeney also advocated for clearing away the thicket of rules governing how the prime minister operates. He recounted being advised that issuing priority letters to cabinet ministers and requesting progress updates violated convention. According to McSweeney, constitutional democracy faces pressure not only from the threat of power abuse but also from governments failing to deliver their elected programmes.
He argued that rules preventing the government from operating at necessary speeds and fulfilling its lawful mandate should be identified, reduced, and justified. He suggested that rules preventing the abuse of power should remain, while the cumulative effect of all other regulations requires a comprehensive review. Furthermore, he proposed codifying the prime minister’s powers in writing, emphasizing that the accumulation of conventions holds the prime minister back.
Background on McSweeney’s Departure
Starmer has previously expressed frustration regarding limitations on his ability to utilize executive powers. McSweeney resigned from his position in February due to his association with the decision to appoint Peter Mandelson as the US ambassador.
Reflecting on his tenure in an earlier interview this year, the former election strategist acknowledged that the Labour Party lacked sufficient preparation for governing and facing a volatile world upon taking office. He noted that the party did not possess a clear enough understanding of how to implement rapid changes for citizens desiring reform.
