Andy Burnham has unveiled his first Cabinet as Prime Minister, appointing John Healey as Chancellor of the Exchequer and Ed Miliband as Foreign Secretary. The reshuffle marks a significant shift from the previous government, with several high-profile figures losing their roles.
Yvette Cooper becomes Health Secretary, while Wes Streeting takes on Defence. Angela Rayner is reappointed Housing Secretary, and Shabana Mahmood remains Home Secretary. Pat McFadden continues as Work and Pensions Secretary, and Lisa Nandy stays as Culture Secretary.
Other appointments include Louise Haigh as First Secretary of State and Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster, Alex Norris as Justice Secretary, Angela Eagle as Environment Secretary, and Miatta Fahnbulleh as Energy Secretary. Stephen Kinnock is named Welsh Secretary, and Sir Chris Bryant is Northern Ireland Secretary.
In his first speech outside Downing Street, Burnham vowed his arrival would be a 'circuit breaker' for the UK. He said his first instruction would be to end rough sleeping and announced plans for a new 10-year plan for Britain later this year.
Healey had resigned as Defence Secretary last month in protest at the previous government's defence investment plan. He will now be responsible for raising military spending to 3% of GDP by 2030, potentially through defence bonds.
Outgoing Prime Minister Keir Starmer said he was leaving with 'good grace' and a 'smile,' giving Burnham his 'full support.' Among those losing their ministerial posts were Rachel Reeves, David Lammy, and Hilary Benn. Katie Kempen, CEO of Victim Support, urged the new Justice Secretary to prioritise victims' rights.
