David Lammy is set to take over as deputy Prime Minister following Angela Rayner’s sudden resignation. Keir Starmer has restructured his top team, appointing Yvette Cooper as the new Foreign Secretary in place of Lammy. Meanwhile, Shabana Mahmood will now lead the Home Office as Labour’s Justice Secretary.
With 25 years of experience as an MP, Lammy will also assume responsibility for the Ministry of Justice. Rayner stepped down after admitting to underpaying stamp duty on a flat in Hove, Sussex. The ethics watchdog, Sir Laurie Magnus, acknowledged Rayner’s integrity but concluded that she had breached the ministerial code.
Amid the reshuffle, it was confirmed that Chancellor Rachel Reeves would retain her position. Exiting the team were Lucy Powell, the Leader of the House of Commons, and Scottish Secretary Ian Murray. Other significant changes include Pat McFadden as the new Work and Pensions Secretary, Steve Reed replacing Rayner as Housing Secretary, and Peter Kyle handling the business portfolio.
Liz Kendall is now the Technology Secretary, while Emma Reynolds has been promoted to lead the Department for Environment, Food, and Rural Affairs. Reflecting on her time in office, Powell expressed gratitude for serving in the Labour Government and acknowledged the need for positive change amidst current challenges in politics.
Murray emphasized the urgency for progressive change and unity in public life, expressing disappointment at leaving the government but looking forward to spending more time with his family while continuing to serve his constituency. Earlier, Rayner resigned following findings that she breached the ministerial code regarding her property purchase. Despite acting in good faith, she acknowledged not meeting the highest standards and took responsibility for the error.
In response, Keir Starmer expressed support for Rayner’s continued involvement in the party and commitment to her causes. The reshuffle and Rayner’s resignation highlight the ongoing evolution within the UK political landscape.