Bar PR firm lures Labour spin doctor into its fold

One of Labour's leading spin doctors has switched sides, and will now lobby politicians and the press on behalf of the Bar Council.

Jo Moore, who has headed Labour's press office since 1993, will join lobbyist Westminster Strategy on 1 December as an account director. She will be advising - among others - the Bar Council.

Described by the Daily Telegraph as "Labour's toughest spin doctor", she will be charged with spearheading the Bar's battle against the legal reforms proposed by the Lord Chancellor, Lord Irvine.

Her appointment marks the end of a long search by Westminster Strategy for a replacement for Jon McLeod.

He left the firm in June to set up a rival venture at Shandwick Communications which is expected to pitch for the Bar's contract next year.

But Westminster Strategy will be hoping Moore's appointment will help it retain its six-figure contract to handle the Bar's PR and lobbying.

Moore will be working three days a week at Westminster Strategy. Although she will be overseeing a number of accounts at the company, a spokeswoman said Moore's initial priority would be the Bar Council's account.