Prime Minister Keir Starmer initiates a major cabinet reshuffle. This follows Angela Rayner’s sudden resignation on Friday. Consequently, top government roles have changed hands. David Lammy is now Deputy Prime Minister. Additionally, Shabana Mahmood becomes the new Home Secretary. This restructuring aims to stabilize the government.
Moreover, Yvette Cooper takes over as Foreign Secretary. Rachel Reeves remains as Chancellor. Importantly, this marks a historic moment. For the first time, three women hold the top cabinet jobs alongside the PM. This major cabinet reshuffle signals a new phase for the government.
Therefore, Rayner resigned over a tax error. She failed to pay enough stamp duty on a flat. The PM’s ethics adviser found she breached the ministerial code. However, her departure forced Starmer’s hand. He planned a smaller reshuffle earlier in the week. However, Rayner’s exit necessitated a broader overhaul.
Furthermore, in her resignation letter, Rayner expressed deep regret. She said the strain on her family was unbearable. Starmer replied with a handwritten note. Also, he said he was very sad to lose her. He called her a trusted colleague and a true friend.
Therefore, this major cabinet reshuffle affects many departments. Steve Reed replaces Rayner as Housing Secretary. However, Pat McFadden becomes Work and Pensions Secretary. Liz Kendall moves to lead the Science department. Emma Reynolds is the new Environment Secretary.
Moreover, Jonathan Reynolds becomes Chief Whip. Peter Kyle is the new Business Secretary. Sir Alan Campbell will lead the House of Commons. Darren Jones adds a new title to his existing role. He is now Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster.
However, not all changes were welcome. Ian Murray expressed disappointment at losing his job. He was replaced as Scotland Secretary by Douglas Alexander. Lisa Nandy, John Healey, and Wes Streeting all keep their current roles.
Meanwhile, Rayner’s exit also triggers a deputy leadership election. This contest could become a problem for Starmer. It might allow party members to voice their discontent.
In addition, opposition leaders were quick to criticize. Reform UK’s Nigel Farage said the government was in crisis. Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch called Starmer weak. She said he was just shuffling deckchairs on a sinking ship.
Ultimately, Starmer hopes this reshuffle will reset his government’s agenda. The focus now moves to implementing key policies. The new team must build public trust and deliver results.
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