Andy Burnham appoints new cabinet after replacing Keir Starmer as PM

Andy Burnham has assumed the role of Prime Minister, signalling a total recalibration of the British government following the resignation of Sir Keir Starmer. Burnham arrived at Buckingham Palace just after midday on Monday, where he was invited by King Charles to form a government, officially making him Prime Minister. By evening, the new administration had embarked on a major overhaul of the Cabinet, resulting in the departure of several prominent figures from the Starmer era.

The reshuffle saw the exit of several high-profile ministers who were closely aligned with the previous leadership. Rachel Reeves, the former chancellor, moved to the backbenches after reportedly declining an offer of a junior cabinet post. Other departures included former deputy prime minister David Lammy, as well as Steve Reed, Darren Jones, Peter Kyle, and Liz Kendall. Lord Hermer also left his position.

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Key Cabinet Appointments

Burnham’s new cabinet blends seasoned politicians with trusted allies and marks a shift in internal party dynamics. Notable appointments include:

• John Healey, Chancellor of the Exchequer: A surprise appointment following his recent resignation from the previous government over military funding rows.
• Ed Miliband, Foreign Secretary: Transitioning from his previous role.
• Angela Rayner, Housing Secretary: Returning to the cabinet after her resignation last year.
• Wes Streeting, Defence Secretary: Returning to government after previously resigning from the Starmer frontbench.
• Louise Haigh, First Secretary of State, Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster, and Minister for the Cabinet Office.
• Yvette Cooper, Health Secretary: Moving from the Foreign Office.
• Shabana Mahmood, Home Secretary: Retaining her position.
• Lucy Powell, Education Secretary: Elevated to the cabinet role.
• Jonathan Reynolds, Business Secretary.
• Anneliese Midgley, Chief Whip: Joining the cabinet in a pivotal role.

The government also announced that Bridget Phillipson will remain in cabinet as Minister for Women and Equalities, while Pat McFadden retains his position as Work and Pensions Secretary. Lisa Nandy continues as Culture Secretary. Alan Campbell continues as Lord President of the Council and Leader of the House of Commons, and Baroness Smith remains as Lord Privy Seal and Leader of the House of Lords. Additionally, Stephen Kinnock has been appointed Secretary of State for Wales, and Chris Bryant as Secretary of State for Northern Ireland.

Strategic Shifts and Diplomatic Outreach

In his first address at Downing Street, the new prime minister pledged to bring “life’s essentials back under stronger public control” and vowed to prioritise ending rough sleeping.

Burnham moved quickly to establish international ties on his first day. He held a phone conversation with United States President Donald Trump, who noted,

"I had a very good conversation with the new Prime Minister of the United Kingdom, Andy Burnham. We discussed many subjects, including the outstanding relationship we have had with the UK. We will be meeting in the not too distant future for topics of mutual interest."

Downing Street confirmed further discussions regarding defence, trade, and the conflict in Ukraine with French President Emmanuel Macron, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, Nato Secretary General Mark Rutte, and European Council President Antonio Costa.

What to Watch Next

Economic focus is currently centred on the new Chancellor’s duties. John Healey has identified “fiscal control” as his primary duty, with the government expected to outline details regarding the cost of living and the Defence Investment Plan shortly.