New UK Prime Minister Burnham Makes Significant Government Changes
UK Prime Minister Andy Burnham on Monday made major changes to his government, removing several ministers loyal to predecessor Keir Starmer and appointing his own allies.
New UK Prime Minister Andy Burnham carried out a significant reshuffle on Monday, dismissing several ministers who were loyal to his predecessor Keir Starmer. Among those fired were Finance Minister Rachel Reeves, Housing Minister Steve Reed, and Deputy Prime Minister David Lammy. Some ministers were moved to other positions, while Burnham's allies were appointed to key roles.
Former Defence Secretary John Healey has taken over as Finance Minister, and former Labour Party leader Ed Miliband has become Foreign Secretary. Wes Streeting, who had ruled out running against Burnham for the party leadership, was appointed Defence Secretary. Home Secretary Shabana Mahmoud retained her post to implement stricter asylum system reforms.
Burnham has already held phone calls with US President Donald Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. During the call with Trump, he emphasized his commitment to defense and security, while with Zelenskyy he reaffirmed Britain's steadfast support for Ukraine against Russian invasion.
Several other positions have changed: Louise Haigh, who had been planning Burnham's rise to power, became First Secretary of State and Minister for the Cabinet Office. Burnham supporters Lucy Powell and Anneliese Midgley were appointed Education Secretary and Chief Whip, respectively. Miatta Fahnbulleh, a close Burnham ally, became Energy Secretary. Some ministers kept their jobs, including Work and Pensions Secretary Pat McFadden and Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy.
