Burnham Takes Power, Reshapes Cabinet
Key figures depart as new Prime Minister outlines ambitious agenda for Britain.
Image: Eddie Pollard / AI
Sarah Connor
Andy Burnham has assumed the role of Prime Minister, immediately initiating a significant cabinet reshuffle that removes several prominent figures from the previous government.
John Healey steps into the crucial role of Chancellor, taking over from Rachel Reeves.
Healey previously served as Defence Secretary, positioning him at the heart of national security discussions.
Beyond the legal debate, the reshuffle also saw Jo Stevens depart from her position as Secretary of State for Wales, a role she held during a period of substantial financial allocation to the nation.
Stevens stated her pride in her government role, highlighting Wales received its largest budget settlement for public services in devolution history during her tenure.
Wales received its largest budget settlement for public services in devolution history during her tenure.
She also stated the Labour Government stabilized the economy, ended Tory austerity, lifted children out of poverty, and improved workers' rights.
Stevens praised Keir Starmer for leading the country through challenging circumstances and restoring the UK's global reputation.
Her departure follows criticism from some Welsh Labour politicians who claimed she did not support more powers for the Welsh government.
Other notable exits include David Lammy, no longer serving as Deputy Prime Minister, and Peter Kyle, out as Business Secretary.
Steve Reed expressed disappointment at his departure from government, joining Liz Kendall and Lord Hermer in announcing their exits.
Lord Hermer previously held the position of ex-attorney general, bringing a wealth of legal experience to the prior administration.
Meanwhile, on the ground, Darren Jones confirmed he will not join the new cabinet, marking a clear break from the previous power structure.
The resignations of Lord James Timpson and Lord Patrick Vallance further define the sweeping changes underway.
John Healey was the first individual to enter No 10 Downing Street following the change.
Later, Ed Miliband and Shabana Mahmood walked into Downing Street together.
This strategic shift follows Louise Haigh being instrumental in planning Mr. Burnham's ascent to power, orchestrating the transition behind the scenes.
Burnham has promised to provide early 'breathing space' for households struggling with the cost of living, directly addressing immediate public concerns.
Breathing space for households struggling with the cost of living.
He vowed to end rough sleeping and set out an ambitious goal of 'reindustrializing Britain,' aiming for a significant economic transformation.
Burnham promised to deliver the biggest change to British politics in 40 years, echoing the transformative ambitions of past leaders like Margaret Thatcher in 1979 or Tony Blair in 1999.
Sources close to Rachel Reeves indicate she turned down an offer from Mr. Burnham for another senior government role, suggesting a divergence in political paths.
The new Prime Minister informs ministers of their removal via phone calls, a direct and swift method of enacting the cabinet overhaul.