Andy Burnham, the newly elected Labour leader and Prime Minister-in-waiting, faces tough decisions in forming his Cabinet, with several London MPs potentially facing demotion or promotion. Burnham, who replaces Sir Keir Starmer, is expected to prioritize MPs from the North West and other regions to signal change and drive his devolution agenda.
Health Secretary James Murray at Risk
Ealing North MP James Murray is considered the most vulnerable London Cabinet member. Appointed Health Secretary only months ago, he has had limited time to prove himself. While he successfully ended the resident doctors' strike, Burnham's limited Cabinet posts—currently 23 full members—could see Murray demoted. His quiet demeanor suggests he would not cause trouble if moved to the backbenches.
Communities Secretary Steve Reed Faces Uncertainty
Burnham plans to establish a "No10 North" in Manchester to drive regional economic growth, potentially shifting parts of the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government northward. Streatham and Croydon North MP Steve Reed, a former Lambeth Council leader and strong communicator, may be replaced by former Deputy Prime Minister Angela Rayner, though her appointment is not guaranteed.
Justice Secretary David Lammy's Position Shaky
Tottenham MP David Lammy, a key Starmer loyalist, faces potential removal as Burnham seeks to distance himself from the previous administration. Lammy has faced criticism over accidental prisoner releases and court reforms. However, his close ties with US Vice President JD Vance make him a valuable conduit to the Trump administration, which could save his job.
Wes Streeting Eyes Comeback
Ilford North MP Wes Streeting, who resigned from Starmer's government, is expected to return to Cabinet. He has been touted as a possible Chancellor, but his right-wing stance clashes with Burnham's left-wing politics. A return to Health Secretary to complete NHS reforms might be more logical, but political dynamics may intervene.
Miatta Fahnbulleh: A Rising Star and Burnham Ally
Peckham MP Miatta Fahnbulleh, a key Burnham ally, resigned as communities minister in May, calling for Starmer to set a departure timetable. The former New Economics Foundation chief executive is working on a policy blueprint for Burnham, advocating for a smaller, strategic central government. She is expected to receive a senior role.
Heidi Alexander Likely to Retain Senior Post
Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander, MP for Swindon South, is one of the few MPs who supported Burnham in his 2010 and 2015 leadership bids. She urged Starmer to set a departure timetable and is likely to keep her job. Burnham has not yet decided on a Chancellor, with Net Zero Secretary Ed Miliband and Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood as possible candidates.
Other Key Appointments Expected
Former Transport Secretary Louise Haigh (Sheffield Heeley), Deputy Leader Lucy Powell (Manchester Central), Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy (Wigan), and Knowsley MP Anneliese Midgley are expected to receive key roles. Starmer loyalist Darren Jones may lose his position as Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster, while Environment Secretary Emma Reynolds and Northern Ireland Secretary Hilary Benn face demotion or voluntary departure.
