Andy Burnham will become Prime Minister on Monday, triggering intense speculation about his Cabinet appointments. The incoming PM has refused to confirm any picks, but reports suggest Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood is the leading candidate for Chancellor of the Exchequer. Burnham's team insists no final decision has been made, with confirmation expected early next week.
Chancellor of the Exchequer: Mahmood leads the race
In the weeks following Keir Starmer's resignation, Ed Miliband and Wes Streeting were seen as contenders for the Treasury. Miliband, a key economic adviser to Burnham, remains in the running. However, Mahmood has emerged as the frontrunner, according to multiple newspapers. Her supporters highlight her willingness to make radical decisions, as demonstrated by her immigration reforms. Critics point to her limited economic experience—she served as shadow chief secretary to the treasury for only four months in 2015—and her legal background rather than economics. Other potential candidates include Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper, Pensions Secretary Pat McFadden, and former Defence Secretary John Healey, though they may be seen as insufficiently bold for Burnham's planned 'rewiring' of the country.
Foreign Secretary: Cooper vs. Miliband
Incumbent Yvette Cooper has argued to stay at the Foreign Office, noting that there have been eight foreign secretaries in nine years, which hampers diplomatic relationships. The Financial Times reports that Ed Miliband could be offered the role if passed over for Chancellor, though it would be a step down from his current energy secretary portfolio. Speculation about David Miliband being appointed foreign secretary via a seat in the House of Lords has faded, with the Sun reporting he prefers the role of US ambassador.
Home Secretary: Mahmood's future uncertain
Mahmood is reportedly keen to remain at the Home Office to see through her reforms. However, Burnham may replace her if he plans to reverse some measures, such as the extended period for indefinite leave to remain. Wes Streeting, who backed Burnham after Starmer's resignation, has expressed discomfort with parts of Mahmood's plans but supported them as necessary. He could be a candidate for the role.
Other key appointments
Burnham faces the challenge of satisfying his supporters while ensuring the right people are in the right jobs. Long-time loyalist Lou Haigh, the former transport secretary who resigned over a fraud conviction, is expected to become Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster, overseeing civil service restructuring. Other prominent figures include Deputy Labour Leader Lucy Powell, Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander, former Deputy PM Angela Rayner, Anneliese Midgley, Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy, and Chief Whip Jonathan Reynolds. Burnham must also decide what to do with current Cabinet ministers performing well.
Some will inevitably be disappointed. The new PM will hope they do not hold grudges. Sir Keir Starmer will formally step down as Labour leader at a special conference tomorrow, with Burnham installed as his replacement. Starmer will remain PM until Monday, stepping down after 11am, with Burnham entering No 10 around an hour and a half later.
