University friend of Liz Truss and alleged Remainer Olly Robbins tipped to run Keir Starmer's government

Who might run the government for Sir Keir Starmer if he gets into Number 10 this year? It’s a question that has speculation running wild in Whitehall, the home of the civil service.

If he becomes prime minister, Starmer is widely expected to appoint a new Cabinet Secretary. While the office of Cabinet Secretary is relatively unknown to the public compared to the Great Offices of State, its holder wields enormous power in government, directing the entirety of the civil service machine and implementing the prime minister’s will across departments.

One name keeps coming up: Olly Robbins, who has also reportedly been telling friends that he would like the top job in Whitehall.