As Keir Starmer began handing out ministerial appointments in the wake of Labour’s landslide election victory, one name stood out. James Timpson, CEO of the family-owned Timpson Group and former chair of the Prison Reform Trust, was appointed prisons minister.
While some questioned the wisdom of awarding the position to someone whose company is best known for its key-cutting and locksmith services, these judgements overlook Timpson’s record as a business leader.
Despite not serving as a sitting MP (he was ennobled in order to be given a ministerial position), Timpson will bring a wealth of practical experience to his new role – something that is far too often missing from government appointments.