Andy Burnham will unveil his first Cabinet next week after weeks of feverish Westminster speculation, reports BritPanorama.
The Labour leader is expected to announce his top team after officially becoming Prime Minister on Monday morning.
In anticipation of this reshuffle, the positions being closely watched include that of Chancellor, with many speculating who will take the keys to No. 11. For weeks, Ed Miliband has been considered the frontrunner. The former Labour leader has played a vital role in Burnham’s rise and is viewed by allies as one of the Government’s most effective Cabinet ministers.
However, Miliband’s potential promotion has raised concerns among MPs, advisers, and market watchers, who fear his affiliation with Labour’s soft left could unsettle investors due to his strong commitment to net zero policies. While his supporters argue he is fiscally disciplined, fears over market confidence seem to be influencing Burnham’s decision-making, suggesting that Miliband may not be the right choice for the Treasury.
Instead, Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood is now seen as the likely candidate for Chancellor, despite her preference to remain at the Home Office. Mahmood is considered a reassuring choice for financial markets due to her position within the Labour Party, although her lack of direct economic experience raises questions.
Foreign Secretary
Yvette Cooper has been fighting to maintain her position as Foreign Secretary. Over her first year in office, she has established a productive working relationship with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio. There is speculation that if Miliband does not secure the Treasury post, he may be offered the Foreign Office as a consolation. Additionally, John Healey, who recently resigned as Defence Secretary, is cited as a possible contender for this role.
Defence Secretary
Dan Jarvis was appointed Defence Secretary just weeks ago, following Healey’s departure. Initially seen as stepping into a challenging role amidst a scramble for funds within Labour’s ambitious Defence Investment Plan, Jarvis has managed to secure additional budgetary support from the Treasury. His political alignment with Burnham, formed during their time as metro mayors, positions him favourably to remain in his role through this reshuffle.
Who is almost certain to be in the Cabinet?
Louise Haigh, who has emerged as one of Burnham’s closest allies, is anticipated to be appointed Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster, becoming one of the Prime Minister’s most trusted ministers. Angela Rayner is also expected to return to Cabinet, likely assuming a role related to housing. Other key figures, like Lucy Powell and Heidi Alexander, are rumoured to be making a comeback in senior roles, reflecting Burnham’s commitment to reward loyalty within his party.
Cabinet Casualties
Not all current ministers are expected to retain their positions. Business Secretary Peter Kyle and Technology Secretary Liz Kendall are among those likely to be dismissed as Burnham seeks to eliminate ties to the previous leadership and reward those who supported his campaign. This reshuffle indicates a broader shift in Labour’s strategy under Burnham’s leadership.
As the Labour Party prepares for a new era under Burnham, the implications of these personnel changes will extend beyond individual roles, potentially shaping the party’s direction and public perception as it seeks to navigate current domestic and international challenges.
