BBC politics editor Robbie Gibb becomes new top spinner at Downing Street
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A top BBC politics boss has been appointed new director of communications at Downing Street.
Robbie Gibb - who is in charge of live political programming at the broadcaster - will head up Theresa May’s media operation following the recent departure of Katie Perrior.
Mr Gibb follows in the footsteps of Craig Oliver - who served as director of communications under David Cameron after a stint at the BBC.
He is the brother of Education Minister Nick Gibb and was former chief of staff to top Tory MP Francis Maude. He was also active in Conservative politics as a student.
Mr Gibb tweeted: “I am pleased to announce I will be leaving the BBC to join the Prime Minister, Theresa May, as her new Director of Communications.
“It's been a privilege to work for the BBC. I will always be a supporter because of its values and commitment to impartiality.”
Mr Gibb replaces Ms Perrior, who quit after Mrs May called the snap general election in April.
She said at the time: "Always said I wouldn’t stay past an election. Good decision, right choice.
"A vote for Theresa May and a Conservative Government is the only route forward. As for me – new opportunities ahead. Exciting times!"
She has since hit out at the Prime Minister's former chiefs of staff Nick Timothy and Fiona Hill - who she branded "rude, abusive and childish".
