In a landmark moment for British politics, Sir Keir Starmer has unveiled his top ministerial team following Labour's decisive general election victory, with Rachel Reeves making history as the nation's first female Chancellor of the Exchequer.
The new Prime Minister moved swiftly to assemble his cabinet, rewarding key allies who shaped Labour's election campaign and policy platform. The appointments signal Starmer's intention to deliver on his central promise of "economic stability" after years of Conservative turmoil.
Historic Appointment at Treasury
Rachel Reeves, the former Bank of England economist who shadowed the Treasury role for three years, now takes charge of the nation's finances at 11 Downing Street. Her appointment breaks a centuries-old male dominance of one of government's most powerful positions.
"This is not just symbolic progress," a senior Labour source told The Independent. "Rachel has the economic credentials and political steel to deliver the growth agenda that formed the backbone of our manifesto."
Deputy Leadership and Key Roles
Angela Rayner, who served as Starmer's deputy throughout the opposition years, has been appointed Deputy Prime Minister and Secretary of State for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities. This dual role gives her significant influence over domestic policy and the government's regional development agenda.
In other key appointments:
- David Lammy takes the Foreign Office, facing immediate challenges including the Ukraine conflict and EU relations
- Yvette Cooper becomes Home Secretary, tasked with tackling immigration and police reform
- Wes Streeting takes on the crucial Health portfolio amid NHS waiting list crises
- Bridget Phillipson becomes Education Secretary, overseeing the government's childcare expansion plans
First Cabinet Meeting Agenda
The new team is expected to hold its first cabinet meeting within hours, with immediate priorities including:
- Kickstarting economic growth initiatives
- Addressing the cost of living crisis
- Beginning negotiations on a new deal for devolved governments
- Planning the King's Speech outlining legislative priorities
Political analysts note that Starmer has largely maintained his shadow cabinet team, suggesting continuity in approach from opposition to government. The absence of major surprises in the top appointments reflects the Prime Minister's preference for experienced hands and team unity.
As the new government settles into Whitehall, all eyes will be on how this historic Labour administration tackles the formidable challenges facing the nation after fourteen years of Conservative rule.
