Former Prime Minister Sir Tony Blair has stated that he would not consider accepting a peerage in order to return to frontline politics and join Sir Keir Starmer’s cabinet if Labour wins the next election.
Sir Tony Blair has ruled out ‘doing a David Cameron’ and returning to frontline politics with a peerage.
In a move reminiscent of former Prime Minister David Cameron, Rishi Sunak recently appointed him as Foreign Secretary by giving him a seat in the House of Lords.
However, despite speculation that Sir Keir Starmer could follow suit and offer Blair a similar position, the former Prime Minister’s team has shut down those rumors.
Sir Tony Blair’s spokesperson said, "It’s not something he would consider. He is happy doing work with his Institute, which takes up the vast majority of his time, and informs the debate on the right policy solutions for the country."
Blair's Influence in Starmer's Office
Sir Keir Starmer’s office is said to be filled with former Blairites, indicating a continuing influence from the Blair years.
Labour MP Pat McFadden, who served as Sir Tony Blair’s old political secretary, is now Sir Keir’s election chief.
In addition, Marianna, Sir Tony Blair’s wife, used to work for his Institute but was recruited by the Labour HQ last year.
It remains to be seen whether Blair’s absence from the House of Lords will impact his ability to influence policy through his Institute.
