Andy Burnham has appointed a record number of women to the Cabinet, with females outnumbering males for the first time in UK history. The new Prime Minister named 12 women among his 23 Cabinet ministers on his first day in 10 Downing Street, Monday, July 20, 2026. Including Burnham, the Cabinet comprises 12 women and 11 men.
Surpassing Previous Records
This milestone exceeds the previous record of 10 women and 13 men in Sir Keir Starmer's final Cabinet. The earlier high was 11 women out of 22 full members, set by Starmer's first Cabinet in July 2024. Burnham's appointments mark a significant step forward for gender representation in the UK government.
Key Female Appointments
Notable women in the Cabinet include Louise Haigh as First Secretary of State, Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster, and minister for the Cabinet Office. Yvette Cooper takes on the role of Health Secretary. Bridget Phillipson remains in Cabinet as Minister for Women and Equalities. Angela Rayner becomes Housing Secretary, and Lucy Powell serves as Education Secretary. Anneliese Midgley, instrumental in Burnham's return to Parliament and ascent to No 10, has been appointed chief whip. Shabana Mahmood continues as Home Secretary, and Lisa Nandy retains her position as Culture Secretary.
First Cabinet Meeting and Policy Announcement
Burnham will chair the first meeting of his new Cabinet on Tuesday, July 21. This follows his announcement of a VAT cut on energy bills starting October 1, his first major policy since entering Downing Street. The move aims to ease the cost of living for households.
Surprise Appointments
Among the unexpected appointments, John Healey was named Chancellor of the Exchequer. Ed Miliband was appointed Foreign Secretary, bringing significant experience to the role. These choices signal Burnham's intent to blend continuity with fresh leadership.
