Andy Burnham risks alienating the 2024 intake of Labour MPs who helped propel him to Number 10, backbenchers have warned, as speculation mounts over ministerial appointments.
Concerns have been raised about handing Wes Streeting a prominent role, with rumours he could become defence secretary, potentially displacing Dan Jarvis. MPs argue that replacing a knowledgeable figure with military experience would damage UK credibility.
Burnham has kept his decisions secret, prompting intense briefing. MPs caution that failing to promote members from the latest intake—who were crucial in ousting Sir Keir Starmer—could upset nearly half the Parliamentary Labour Party.
One MP noted the heightened expectation: 'What Andy needs to be wary of is there will be about 200 MPs who will be very disappointed if they don’t get a job.' Another source predicted eight to ten new faces in the cabinet, marking a massive change.
Supporters of Burnham have demanded he demote Starmer loyalists, with immigration minister Mike Tapp named as a potential target. Meanwhile, the anticipated promotion of Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood to chancellor has sparked internal friction, with some preferring she remain at the Home Office.
