Michael Ellam, who was Mr Brown’s official spokesman in No 10, has returned to Whitehall in a newly created role responsible for the European Union and international economic affairs in the Cabinet Office
Michael Ellam, a former aide to Gordon Brown, has been drafted in to bolster Sir Keir Starmer’s mission to “reset” tensions with the European Union.
The ex-Brown spokesman is back in the corridors of power as head of a new EU and international economic affairs role within the Cabinet Office. Nick Thomas-Symonds, orchestrating the Brussels rapprochement, hailed him as a “huge asset”. Tasked with spearheading UK-EU dialogues and global discussions like those of G7 and G20, Ellam will control the Cabinet Office’s EU relations secretariat tasked with tightening ties with Brussels.
Climbing aboard after an HSBC stint where he ascended to public sector banking chief, Mr Ellam said: “I am delighted to have been appointed second permanent secretary European Union and international economic affairs, and to return to the Civil Service after a decade in the private sector.
“I look forward to working with the Prime Minister, the minister for EU relations and others to deliver the government’s objectives on this important agenda.”
One of the Prime Minister’s top objectives of forging stronger economic and security links with Europe to mend post-Brexit fences with the bloc. Mr Thomas-Symonds said: “I am delighted that Michael Ellam is bringing his talents to the heart of government, helping us tackle barriers to trade, keep people safe and take on shared global challenges, like illegal migration.
“The Prime Minister has set out a clear plan for change to improve people’s lives. That includes growing our economy and improving national security. Michael’s experience at the highest levels of international finance will be a huge asset as we work to deliver economic growth on behalf of the British people, including through resetting our relationship with the EU.”
