Angela Rayner is reportedly being lined up for the significant role of Health Secretary in Andy Burnham's prospective Labour government, a potential comeback following her resignation as Deputy Prime Minister over a stamp duty tax issue. Burnham was elected unopposed as Labour leader on July 17, 2026, and is expected to officially assume the role of Prime Minister on July 20, 2026, succeeding Sir Keir Starmer.
Rayner, who has a background as a care worker, would be tasked with a major overhaul of England's social care system. Sources indicate that approximately £18 billion has been earmarked for the establishment of a national care service. Baroness Casey of Blackstock is currently leading a review into the social care system, with Burnham reportedly urging her to expedite her recommendations by the end of the year to inform Rayner's proposed reforms.
Rayner's potential return to government would represent a notable political resurgence. She resigned from her previous government position after an inquiry found she had inadvertently breached the ministerial code by failing to obtain appropriate expert tax advice regarding a £40,000 stamp duty payment. One source close to Burnham's inner circle suggested Rayner is being considered to spearhead the care system's transformation.
Burnham has thus far remained reserved about his cabinet appointments, stating only that it will "reflect all parts of our party." Other potential cabinet roles are also being speculated upon. Ed Miliband, the current Energy Secretary, had been a contender for Chancellor, but Shabana Mahmood, the current Home Secretary, has emerged as a late front-runner for that position. Jonathan Reynolds and Louise Haigh are also expected to return to government, with Reynolds potentially resuming his role as Business Secretary and Haigh being considered for Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster.
Further speculation suggests a possible return to government for David Miliband, who served as Foreign Secretary during the New Labour era. He could potentially be appointed as Foreign Secretary, a move that might involve his appointment to the House of Lords. Anneliese Midgley, an ally of Burnham, is expected to be appointed Chief Whip. Miatta Fahnbulleh, an economist who publicly called for Keir Starmer's resignation after poor local election results, is being considered for Secretary of State at the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government.
Burnham is scheduled to announce his full cabinet on Monday, July 20, 2026.