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MNN Global · February 12, 2026 · 1 min read

Starmer urged to appoint woman as first secretary of state

What happened: Senior female Labour politicians have called on Prime Minister Keir Starmer to appoint a woman to the role of first secretary of state. Starmer reportedly acknowledged the need to move away from a 'boy's club' culture in Downing Street.

Why it matters:

  • It highlights ongoing concerns about gender representation in UK government leadership.
  • The decision could influence Labour's image on equality ahead of future elections.

MNN Take: The call reflects wider efforts to promote gender balance in political leadership roles, addressing historic imbalances in government appointments.

Sources: BBC Politics