SpAds Settle In to Post-Doyle Communications Regime – Guido Fawkes

SpAds Settle In to Post-Doyle Communications Regime

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James Lyons, who is now heading up strategic communications in No 10, has already forged a reputation among special advisers for an “interesting management style” in his short time in government since he was brought in following Sue Ann Gray, Baroness Gray of Tottenham’s sacking. SpAds report Lyons’ style to be “abrasive” – usually code for “effective”…

Day-to-day communications operations are being run by Labour longtimer Steph Driver. A SpAd away day on Friday with Alastair Campbell was described by one individual present as ‘incredibly awkward’ as raving Al attacked Downing Street’s communications strategy. He apparently didn’t realise that strategy was the previous responsibility of the new director of communications, who was present. SpAds decamped to the Old Star on Broadway afterwards…

One SpAd says: “No idea why they brought Campbell in. Suppose he showed us things could always be worse.” Lyons has instructed more creative thinking in ministerial media placements, asking SpAds to get them out of the legacy media and into podcasts, to a mixed response. There is also increased stress from No 10 on longer range communications outside of the usual fortnightly grid. Gotta try something…