UK PM Burnham Overhauls Cabinet, Dismisses Starmer Loyalists

British Prime Minister Andy Burnham carried out a major cabinet reshuffle on Monday, July 21, removing several ministers who were loyal to his predecessor Keir Starmer. Shortly after taking office, Burnham held separate phone conversations with US President Donald Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, emphasizing Britain's commitment to defense and security and reaffirming 'steadfast support' for Ukraine against Russia's invasion.

Key changes include: former Defense Secretary John Healey replacing Rachel Reeves as Chancellor of the Exchequer; former Labour leader Ed Miliband becoming Foreign Secretary; and Wes Streeting, who withdrew from the Labour leadership contest, appointed Defense Secretary. Home Secretary Shabana Mahmoud retained her post to continue implementing stricter asylum reforms. Louise Haigh, who left the transport role in 2024 and helped plan Burnham's rise, became First Secretary of State and Minister for the Cabinet Office.

Other appointments: Pat McFadden stayed as Work and Pensions Secretary; former Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper moved to Health; Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy, a close Burnham ally, remained; Jonathan Reynolds was reappointed Business Secretary; and Angela Rayner returned as Housing Secretary. Burnham supporters Lucy Powell and Anneliese Midgley became Education Secretary and Chief Whip respectively, while Miata Fanbullé, a close associate, was named Energy Secretary.