Allies of former Prime Minister Keir Starmer have accused his successor, Andy Burnham, of conducting a “deeply factional” cabinet reshuffle that removed or demoted more than half of Starmer’s cabinet. Critics say the move contradicts Burnham’s pledge to end factional infighting within the Labour Party.
One former official described the reshuffle as “ridiculous” if portrayed as anything other than factional. Another noted that while a new leader naturally wants to appoint their own team, the decision to oust “so many impressive people” was surprising. However, some acknowledged that Burnham handled the changes sensitively, personally calling outgoing ministers.
Particular concern has been raised about the treatment of loyalists like Nick Thomas-Symonds, the sacked Cabinet Office minister, and Bridget Phillipson, who lost her education brief. In contrast, figures such as Wes Streeting and John Healey, who resigned under Starmer, were rewarded with senior posts. One outgoing official warned this sends “a dangerous message” to MPs about rewarding disloyalty.
There is also unease over the gender balance in the new cabinet: only one of the four great offices of state is now held by a woman, down from three. Despite the criticism, many outgoing staff accept the political realities. As one source put it: “You sign up knowing it’s not a job for life… but it’s still a privilege.”
