Andy Burnham has announced his new cabinet after becoming prime minister following the resignation of Sir Keir Starmer, according to BBC News.
Burnham became prime minister after receiving the support of 379 of Labour’s 403 MPs to replace Sir Keir. He has pledged to move power away from Whitehall, introduce greater public control of the water and energy sectors, build more council houses and maintain Labour’s election commitment not to raise the main rates of income tax or National Insurance.
John Healey has been appointed chancellor of the exchequer, returning to the cabinet less than two months after leaving the post of defence secretary. BBC News reported that the appointment was unexpected, with speculation having focused on Ed Miliband and Shabana Mahmood. Healey has previously served in Treasury, local government, housing and adult skills ministerial roles.
Louise Haigh has been named chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster, first secretary of state and Cabinet Office minister. The BBC described her as one of Burnham’s closest allies and said the role places her at the centre of the new administration.
Ed Miliband becomes foreign secretary after moving from the energy and net zero brief. Shabana Mahmood remains home secretary, with responsibility for immigration, national security and policing in England and Wales.
Wes Streeting has been appointed defence secretary, replacing Dan Jarvis, who had been in the role for only a matter of weeks. Yvette Cooper moves to health and social care secretary, where the BBC said she will face challenges including NHS waiting lists in England, relations with senior doctors and social care.
Lucy Powell is now education secretary, while Pat McFadden remains work and pensions secretary. Angela Rayner returns to cabinet as housing, communities and local government secretary, with responsibility for helping deliver Burnham’s plans on devolution and council house building.
Jonathan Reynolds has been appointed secretary of state for business, innovation, science and trade, returning to the business department with an expanded brief. Bridget Phillipson remains women and equalities minister and has also been appointed Labour Party chair. Lisa Nandy continues as digital, culture, media and sport secretary.
