Prime Minister Andy Burnham has begun reshaping his government, initiating a cabinet reshuffle that includes the dismissal of several loyalists to his predecessor, Keir Starmer. Among those removed from their positions are David Lammy, Steve Reed, and Peter Kyle.
In his first speech following his installation as Prime Minister, Burnham acknowledged the need for improvement within the Labour government. Reed expressed disappointment at his departure from the role of Housing Secretary, remarking on loyalty. Lammy, who served as deputy prime minister, also stated his pride in having served in the cabinet.
The dismissals come as Burnham signals a potential shift to the left. He outlined a vision focused on greater public control of services and a ten-year plan for re-industrialization, reiterating his view that Britain has been on the wrong path since the 1980s. His initial directive to officials will be to address rough sleeping, with further announcements on cost of living support expected.
Burnham's ascent to Prime Minister followed an audience with the King at Buckingham Palace, where he was accompanied by his wife, Marie-France van Heel. A key focus for observers is the potential appointment of Ed Miliband as Chancellor, a move reportedly favored by the left wing of the party but met with caution by businesses and moderates. Speculation suggests Shabana Mahmood may be considered for the role instead.
Meanwhile, the positions of other prominent figures such as Angela Rayner, Wes Streeting, and Yvette Cooper remain undecided.
In broader political developments, the European Union has welcomed Burnham, who has previously supported rejoining the bloc. Burnham also disclosed that his father, who has Alzheimer's, is unaware of his new role, emphasizing his commitment to overhauling social care. Eco-tycoon Dale Vince was seen at Downing Street, amidst ongoing discussions about potential new drilling in the North Sea. The new Prime Minister has also hinted at an earlier end to the freeze on the basic rate tax threshold, though funding for such measures is yet to be detailed. Burnham will be the first openly Catholic Prime Minister, with arrangements in place concerning the Church of England. The area around Downing Street saw loudspeaker bans implemented following protests during Sir Keir's resignation speech.
Sir Keir Starmer delivered a farewell address, asserting that his work was complete and that the country was in a stronger position. He expressed his full support for Burnham, who secured the leadership through a challenge that led to Starmer's departure. Starmer reflected on his tenure, stating he took the party from a 2019 defeat to a landslide victory in 2024 and that Britain is now stronger and fairer.
Burnham's immediate priorities appear to include devolving power away from Westminster and scrapping Sir Keir's digital ID program to concentrate on the cost of living. He has indicated a desire for significant changes, aiming for what he described as the "biggest changes in the last 40 years." His first measures for cost of living support are slated for announcement soon.
Regarding the North Sea drilling, Burnham's team has confirmed adherence to the Labour manifesto, which prohibits new licenses. However, expanded drilling at existing sites like Rosebank and Jackdaw is under consideration. Kemi Badenoch of the Conservative party has urged Burnham to cut spending rather than raise taxes and has called for clarity on his plans, noting a lack of detailed policy proposals and media scrutiny.