Sir Keir Starmer has held his first press conference in the newly revamped Downing Street briefing room, following a “politically neutral” refurbishment costing the taxpayer £80,000. The room at 9 Downing Street underwent renovations in December. The refurbishment replaces the former blue backdrop, traditionally associated with the Conservative party, with wood panelling and inlaid lighting. Grey tones now replace the previous blue carpet. A government crest has also been added behind the podium. A spokesperson for the Prime Minister described the changes as restoring it “to its original state”. They emphasized the cost was significantly less than the previous administration’s expenditure.