Andy Burnham Unveils New Cabinet: Key Appointments and Roles

New Delhi, India Jul 21, 2026 ALN: Prime Minister Andy Burnham has announced his new cabinet after taking office following the resignation of Sir Keir Starmer.

Tap or click on a person in our interactive guide below to learn more about them and their role in government.

Andy Burnham's Cabinet Overview

Andy Burnham is the new prime minister, after winning the backing of 379 of Labour's 403 MPs as the best person to replace Sir Keir Starmer. His ascent to the premiership marks a pivotal moment for the Labour Party, as he brings a blend of experience and a fresh vision for the party's future. Burnham has pledged to shift power away from Whitehall, introduce "greater public control" of the water and energy sectors, and to build more council houses – while keeping Labour’s election pledge not to raise the main rates of income tax or National Insurance. In one of his first major policy announcements as prime minister, Burnham announced he will remove VAT from electricity bills later this year, a move aimed at alleviating the financial burden on households and addressing rising energy costs.

Born in Aintree in 1970, Burnham was inspired by the miners’ strike to join the Labour Party in his teens and first became an MP in 2001. His political journey reflects a deep-rooted commitment to social justice and community welfare. The former health secretary had twice failed to become party leader - losing to Ed Miliband in 2010 and Jeremy Corbyn in 2015 - experiences that have likely shaped his approach to leadership and policy-making. After leaving Parliament, Burnham served as Greater Manchester mayor, where he gained valuable insights into local governance and the importance of devolving power to regional authorities. He returned as Makerfield MP in June and succeeded Sir Keir Starmer a month later. A life-long Everton fan and talented sportsman, he was part of Labour's Demon Eyes FC football team when Tony Blair was PM, and regularly featured in the Labour MPs vs Lobby journalists match while in Parliament, showcasing his belief in camaraderie and teamwork.

Key Cabinet Appointments

• John Healey has returned as chancellor of the exchequer, less than two months after quitting as defence secretary. Healey, a seasoned politician with a strong background in financial matters, faces the challenge of balancing the government’s spending plans while addressing the economic needs of the country. His recent criticism of what he termed a "Treasury orthodoxy that's a dead hand on dynamic government" indicates a desire to foster innovation and growth within the economy. He emphasized that the perception of defence as "a drain rather than a driver of growth" needs to be reconsidered, hinting at potential reforms in how the government views and allocates resources to various sectors.
• Louise Haigh has become chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster, first secretary of state, and Cabinet Office minister. As one of Burnham’s closest allies, Haigh’s role is pivotal in managing the Cabinet Office, the department that supports the prime minister and coordinates the government’s policies to deliver its agenda. Her appointment signifies Burnham's intent to have a strong ally in a crucial role, ensuring that the government's objectives are met efficiently and effectively.
• Ed Miliband is the new foreign secretary, transitioning from his previous role overseeing energy and net zero initiatives. Miliband's experience in climate policy is particularly significant as he takes on foreign affairs, especially in a global context where climate change and international relations intersect. He has been vocal against those urging the government to drop its net zero ambitions, reinforcing Labour’s commitment to environmental sustainability as a core tenet of its foreign policy.
• Shabana Mahmood remains home secretary, responsible for immigration, national security, and policing in England and Wales. Her recent announcement of sweeping changes to the UK’s asylum system upon her appointment reflects a proactive approach to addressing pressing issues within the realm of national security and immigration policy.
• Wes Streeting is the new defence secretary, replacing Dan Jarvis. Streeting, known for his effective communication skills, brings a fresh perspective to the defence portfolio. His previous resignation as health secretary in May underscores his commitment to public service and his ability to navigate complex political landscapes.
• Yvette Cooper takes on the role of health and social care secretary, having previously served as foreign secretary and home secretary. Her extensive experience in various high-profile roles positions her well to tackle the ongoing challenges facing the UK's health system, particularly in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic.
• Lucy Powell has been appointed as education secretary, having previously been leader of the House of Commons. Her focus will likely center on educational reform and ensuring equitable access to quality education for all students, a critical issue in the current political climate.
• Pat McFadden remains work and pensions secretary, a role in which he has played a key part in Labour’s historic 2024 election victory. His continued presence in this position suggests a focus on social welfare and economic support for the most vulnerable in society.
• Angela Rayner returns as secretary of state for housing, communities, and local government after resolving her tax affairs. Her role will be crucial in addressing the housing crisis and ensuring that communities have the resources they need to thrive.
• Jonathan Reynolds has become secretary of state for business, innovation, science, and trade, returning to the business department he led until September 2025. His experience will be vital in fostering economic growth and innovation within the UK economy.

This cabinet marks a significant shift in Labour's approach under Burnham, focusing on public control and social justice while maintaining fiscal responsibility. The appointments reflect a blend of experience and fresh perspectives, indicating Burnham's commitment to addressing both immediate challenges and long-term goals for the party and the country. The implications of these appointments extend beyond mere governance; they signal a renewed focus on community welfare, economic stability, and environmental sustainability, which are likely to shape the political landscape in the coming years. As Burnham embarks on this new chapter, the effectiveness of his cabinet in implementing these ambitious policies will be closely scrutinized by both supporters and critics alike.