Prime Minister Andy Burnham is set to announce new measures aimed at alleviating the cost of living crisis as his cabinet convenes for the first time. Burnham, who vowed to provide "breathing space" for struggling households, is expected to detail the new support on Tuesday.
In addition to the immediate economic relief, Burnham has outlined his intention to unveil a 10-year "new plan for Britain" later this year, which he stated would chart a course towards a desired future for the country. This long-term vision aims to implement "the biggest changes in the last 40 years" to British politics.
Burnham's top team appointments include John Healey as chancellor and Ed Miliband as foreign secretary. Angela Rayner returns to government as housing secretary, and Wes Streeting has been appointed as the new defence secretary. The prime minister is also expected to finalize appointments for junior ministers on Tuesday.
Healey, speaking on Monday, stated that he and Burnham would "work in lockstep to meet the fiscal rules with a buffer against uncertainty" and focus on making "life more affordable for working people right across the UK."
Key Ministerial Portfolios
The new housing secretary, Rayner, will be responsible for delivering on pledges to end rough sleeping and construct a significant number of council houses. Rayner previously held a similar role in Sir Keir's government. Wes Streeting, as the new defence secretary, faces pressure to outline a strategy for the UK to meet NATO's defense spending targets. Shabana Mahmood will continue as home secretary, and Louise Haigh will serve as first secretary of state, chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster, and minister for the Cabinet Office, acting as Burnham's primary liaison across government. Yvette Cooper is set to oversee reforms to the social care system.