Angela Rayner has made a remarkable comeback to the government by rejoining Andy Burnham’s top team at No10 for his inaugural Cabinet meeting. Previously known as Labour’s Red Queen, Rayner has taken on the role of Housing Secretary after stepping down from the same position in Sir Keir Starmer’s cabinet, along with her positions as Labour’s deputy leader and deputy prime minister due to tax issues last year. The MP for Ashton-under-Lyne has been exonerated of any misconduct by HMRC.
Earlier this year, she was seen meeting with Mr. Burnham in Greater Manchester, indicating her support for his bid for No 10. Describing herself as a socialist, Rayner advocated for Labour’s workers’ rights initiatives during her previous tenure in the cabinet.
The return of the former Deputy PM to the government comes after much speculation about a potential leadership challenge.
Angela Rayner now serves as the Housing, Communities, and Local Government Secretary following the recent election and was instrumental in promoting the significant Employment Rights Act. A prominent figure within the party’s left wing, she criticized Shabana Mahmood’s immigration reforms as “un-British,” although she will need to align with government policies upon her return. Rayner also cautioned Keir Starmer against appointing Peter Mandelson as the US ambassador in 2024.
Lucy Powell, the new Education Secretary, was the first to enter the Cabinet shortly after a reshuffle that saw many of Keir Starmer’s allies relegated to the backbenches. John Healey, the new Chancellor, resumed his position at the top table following his recent resignation as Defence Secretary. He criticized Rachel Reeves and Mr. Starmer, accusing the Treasury of inadequate defense funding. Wes Streeting, who resigned in protest against Mr. Starmer’s leadership, has reclaimed his former role.
Ed Miliband participated in his first Cabinet meeting as Foreign Secretary, while Shabana Mahmood retained her position as Home Secretary after proposing extensive changes to the asylum system. Yvette Cooper, previously in charge of the Home Office and the Foreign Office, was reassigned as Health Secretary.
Returning members to the Cabinet include Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster Louise Haigh and Education Secretary Lucy Powell, alongside new additions Anneliese Midgley and Energy Security Secretary Miatta Fahnbulleh, who are allies of Mr. Burnham.
The newly appointed Prime Minister, emphasizing significant changes, pledged to usher in the most substantial transformations the UK has seen in four decades. He expressed optimism for a renewed sense of belief and hope in Britain.
Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander, Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy, and Pat McFadden, continuing to lead the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP), retained their positions. Notably, this Cabinet meeting marked the absence of Rachel Reeves, David Lammy, Peter Kyle, and Liz Kendall, who were removed in one of Mr. Burnham’s initial actions as Prime Minister, as well as Starmer’s allies Steve Reed and Lord Richard Hermer.
On his first day in office, Mr. Burnham emphasized his commitment to addressing rough sleeping, stating his intent to end the issue promptly. Additionally, the government announced an £850 million tax reduction on energy bills to alleviate the cost-of-living challenges, effective from October 1, by eliminating Mr. Starmer’s digital ID project, which was projected to cost around £600 million annually for three years.
The Prime Minister underscored the importance of providing relief to the public through immediate tax cuts on energy bills and restoring hope. Mr. Healey also welcomed the energy tax reduction, highlighting its role in easing financial burdens and supporting households across the country.
The government’s decision to implement this measure promptly aims to reduce inflation and assist households in managing their expenses effectively.
