With Andy Burnham set to become prime minister next week, the contest over who will be his next chancellor is intensifying, reports BritPanorama.
The former Greater Manchester Mayor’s premiership was solidified this week with the backing of 369 of the party’s 403 MPs, making it impossible for any rival to enter the contest, signaling a near-certain coronation.
While Mr. Burnham nearly achieved a clean sweep of declared nominations, backbencher Neil Coyle endorsed ex-minister Catherine West, who previously retreated from an unlikely leadership challenge against Sir Keir Starmer in May.
Now sworn in as an MP, Mr. Burnham faces calls from both within and outside the Labour Party to enact substantial changes once he enters Number 10. This includes not only policy shifts but also a reshuffling of the cabinet, likely opting for a team that encompasses a broader spectrum of views compared to Sir Keir Starmer’s administration.
Aligned with close allies he hopes to reward, Mr. Burnham’s most consequential decision will be the appointment of his chancellor. This position is anticipated to be a key indicator of the direction his government will take.
The contenders for this pivotal role include Shabana Mahmood, Ed Miliband, Darren Jones, and Wes Streeting, each representing distinct economic perspectives within the party.
Who will be Burnham’s chancellor when he becomes prime minister?
After the prime minister, the chancellor’s role is the most significant in government, with Mr. Burnham’s choice set to signal a departure from Sir Keir’s policies.
Despite Rachel Reeves’ attempt to secure her position by backing MP for Makerfield, it is widely believed she will be removed from the Treasury, potentially exiting government altogether.
This shift would likely entail the departure of her economic policies, though Mr. Burnham has indicated he will maintain current borrowing guidelines.
Across discussions, Shabana Mahmood has emerged as the frontrunner for the chancellorship. Her reputation as a competent politician, gained from her tenure as a tough home secretary, makes her a strong candidate. An appointment would simultaneously allow Mr. Burnham to recalibrate her immigration policies, calming market fears related to his leadership.
Though from the Labour right, Mahmood’s lack of prior economic roles may raise questions among party members. Conversely, Ed Miliband, known for advocating a left-leaning economic policy, remains a strong candidate, albeit with apprehensions about potential clashes with Mr. Burnham over his net zero commitments.
Wes Streeting, having recently withdrew his leadership bid in favor of supporting Mr. Burnham, is another serious contender. While viewed positively by centrist factions, his image as a Blairite moderniser may alienate some progressives within the party.
Darren Jones, representing Starmer loyalists, could offer continuity as a former chief Treasury secretary, but his ties to the outgoing regime may deter Mr. Burnham from selecting him.
More female MPs could be brought into cabinet
A number of female MPs are expected to play crucial roles in a Burnham cabinet, with Louise Haigh likely taking a significant position following her central role in Burnham’s campaign.
Having previously been ousted from cabinet due to criminal conviction revelations, she is poised to return as Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster, overseeing the cabinet office.
Another key player could be Knowsley MP Anneliese Midgley, who might secure a prominent cabinet role, potentially as Leader of the Commons. Angela Rayner, the former deputy prime minister, may also make a comeback after aligning herself with Mr. Burnham’s leadership aspirations.
Lucy Powell, Mr. Burnham’s ally and deputy leader, is anticipated to assume a cabinet position, perhaps overseeing local government or education. Current culture secretary Lisa Nandy appears set for a promotion, also eyeing the education role.
The appointment of a new defence secretary will be closely watched, with former armed forces minister Al Carns a likely candidate. However, John Healey’s return, possibly as foreign secretary, cannot be ruled out.
Who would be out?
A sweeping change could lead to several familiar faces being ousted. Deputy prime minister David Lammy, a close ally of Sir Keir, is expected to be relegated to the backbenches.
Mr. Burnham may also move on from several trusted allies within the current cabinet, including welfare secretary Pat McFadden and housing secretary Steve Reed, despite their competence. Tech secretary Liz Kendall, previously unable to secure her welfare post, is unlikely to feature in a new cabinet.
Meanwhile, foreign secretary Yvette Cooper, who openly urged Starmer to step down, is anticipated to retain a position but in a different capacity.
New cabinet selections often yield unexpected appointments, and the next few weeks may reveal how Mr. Burnham seeks to balance the interests within his party.
