Overview

• Jonathan Powell, a former aide to Tony Blair, has been appointed as the new National Security Adviser by Prime Minister Keir Starmer.
• Powell's appointment is controversial due to his political background, contrasting with previous civil service holders of the role.
• He played a significant role in the Good Friday Agreement and has experience in international conflict resolution.
• Critics, including some within the Labour Party, question his involvement in past decisions like the Iraq War.
• Powell's recent work includes negotiating the Chagos Islands sovereignty issue, leading to the UK ceding control to Mauritius.