Sources within Prime Minister Andy Burnham's government describe a competitive environment among his senior female ministers, drawing comparisons to the 2004 film "Mean Girls." This dynamic, according to insiders, is influencing policy decisions as powerful women within the cabinet vie for the Prime Minister's ear.
Louise Haigh, serving as First Secretary of State, is seen by some as the most influential figure, effectively acting as deputy prime minister. Her position is reportedly a source of tension with Cabinet Secretary Antonia Romeo, described as "strong-willed" and previously investigated for bullying claims. One Whitehall source stated that Haigh is actively trying to "block Antonia when she tries to circumvent her," aiming to be the sole advisor with Burnham's attention.
Other prominent female ministers include former Deputy Prime Minister Angela Rayner, now serving as Housing Secretary, and Lucy Powell, the Education Secretary. Both reportedly accepted roles considered less senior than they had hoped for. Shabana Mahmood, Home Secretary, and Health Secretary Yvette Cooper are also noted as holding significant positions within the government.
The competitive atmosphere is further fueled by past political maneuvers. Haigh's rise is noted following her resignation from a previous role, with reports suggesting she was overheard discussing strategies to undermine then-leader Sir Keir Starmer. Her subsequent return to a prominent position in Burnham's government, particularly her role as First Secretary of State, is seen by some as a calculated power play.
Lucy Powell, a close ally of Burnham, was reportedly a contender for the Deputy Prime Minister role. However, following disappointing local election results and Powell's comments against a leadership challenge, her position shifted. Some insiders suggest Powell did not achieve the position she desired, while her allies maintain she preferred heading her own department.
Angela Rayner's influence is also reportedly diminished after speculation about a pact with Burnham. Allies of Burnham reportedly felt Rayner was "inscrutable" during discussions about seizing power and lost trust after a meeting between her and Burnham was reportedly leaked to the press. This led to her return to the Housing Secretary role instead of a more senior cabinet position.
Francesca Cairns, a color analysis expert, noted Haigh's recent "glow up," including a new hairstyle and updated wardrobe, as reflecting a "conscious recalibration towards being taken more seriously in the role" and projecting "calm competence and gravitas."
Burnham himself has reportedly been advised by Downing Street social media experts to reduce references to football and pubs in his public communications. Despite this, one source suggested Burnham could be characterized as "Labour's first female Prime Minister" due to the significant number of female advisors and ministers pushing policy issues important to women.
Burnham's spouse, Marie-France van Heel, is described as highly influential in his personal and professional life, with an ally noting that "She definitely wears the trousers" and was instrumental in his decision to take a planned holiday despite his workload.
Despite the reported internal tensions, a Downing Street source strongly denied any friction between Louise Haigh and Cabinet Secretary Antonia Romeo.