New Prime Minister Andy Burnham has announced his first cabinet, sweeping away key figures from Sir Keir Starmer's government and introducing a mix of experienced loyalists and surprising appointments. The reshuffle follows Starmer's resignation after Burnham's return to Westminster triggered a leadership change.
Key appointments and departures
John Healey, a veteran Labour frontbencher who served as defence secretary under Starmer, has been appointed Chancellor of the Exchequer. Healey's shock resignation as defence secretary in June over a dispute about increasing defence spending proved a pivotal moment in Starmer's downfall. A source in Burnham's ministry said Healey was chosen because he is a trusted and experienced figure who shares the new Prime Minister's outlook.
Ed Miliband, the former Labour leader and energy secretary under Starmer, becomes Foreign Secretary. Miliband, known for his net zero agenda, is expected to leverage his international negotiating experience. His appointment raises questions about how he will handle relations with US President Donald Trump, particularly regarding North Sea oil demands.
Shabana Mahmood retains her role as Home Secretary, continuing her work on stricter migration controls. As Labour's efforts to reduce Channel crossings show results, backbench pressure to soften migration curbs could become an early flashpoint. Mahmood, an Oxford-educated former barrister, is one of the first Muslim women elected to the Commons.
Northern power women and key portfolios
Louise Haigh has been appointed Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster and First Secretary of State. Haigh, who resigned as transport secretary over a historic criminal offence, was a key figure in Burnham's campaign and is part of a group dubbed "northern power women." She is expected to drive Burnham's priorities, including devolution and cost-of-living measures.
Yvette Cooper, who served as home secretary and foreign secretary under Starmer, has been moved to Health Secretary, a role seen by some as a demotion from the great offices of state. She is tasked with overhauling social care, a priority for Burnham.
Pat McFadden remains Work and Pensions Secretary, overseeing welfare and state pensions. A loyal Starmer ally, McFadden played a central role in shaping Labour's pre-election direction.
Returning figures and new roles
Angela Rayner returns as Housing Secretary after resigning from the same role under Starmer over tax affairs, from which she was cleared by HMRC. The Ashton-under-Lyne MP, a self-described socialist, championed workers' rights in her previous cabinet role.
Jonathan Reynolds returns as Business Secretary, a role now expanded to cover science and technology. Reynolds, who chaired Christians on the Left, previously helped redraw Labour's relationship with the City alongside Rachel Reeves.
Lucy Powell, Labour's deputy leader, becomes Education Secretary. The Manchester Central MP was an early supporter of Burnham's return to Westminster.
Whips, equalities, and culture
Anneliese Midgley becomes Chief Whip, a role that may differ under Burnham, who has criticized the whipping system. Midgley, a close ally, was among the "northern power women" Burnham praised during his by-election win.
Bridget Phillipson loses her education secretary role but remains Minister for Women and Equalities, attending cabinet. A Starmer ally, she oversaw reforms to EHRC guidance on trans people.
Lisa Nandy continues as Culture Secretary, with her new digital portfolio suggesting the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology has been scrapped.
Burnham's vision and challenges
In his first speech as Prime Minister, Burnham acknowledged the turbulence that made him the seventh prime minister since 2016. He promised a "circuit breaker for Britain" with the biggest changes in 40 years, including a new political and economic model. He vowed to provide early "breathing space" for households struggling with the cost of living and end rough sleeping.
Burnham's cabinet reflects a blend of continuity and change, with experienced figures like Healey and Miliband in key roles, while Starmer loyalists like Cooper and Phillipson face demotions. The new government faces immediate challenges, including migration policy, social care reform, and economic stability.
