Lammy, Cooper, and Mahmood Take Key Roles in Major Reshuffle After Rayner’s Resignation
British Prime Minister Keir Starmer has initiated a sweeping cabinet reshuffle following the departure of Angela Rayner, who resigned from her posts as Deputy Prime Minister, Housing Secretary, and Deputy Labour Leader amid a stamp duty tax controversy. David Lammy, previously serving as Foreign Secretary, has been elevated to the position of Deputy Prime Minister and simultaneously appointed Justice Secretary. His promotion at the center of the reconfiguration underscores his standing as a trusted ally to Starmer. Assuming Lammy’s previous role, Yvette Cooper has been appointed Foreign Secretary, marking a significant shift from her prior position as Home Secretary. Meanwhile, Shabana Mahmood, formerly the Justice Secretary, now heads the Home Office, taking over responsibilities for national security and immigration. The reshuffle also introduces new faces to other major departments. Steve Reed steps into the Housing Secretary role vacated by Rayner. Pat McFadden becomes the new Work and Pensions Secretary, leading a newly created super-ministry that also incorporates the education department’s skills portfolio. Additional changes include Peter Kyle as Business Secretary, Liz Kendall overseeing Science and Technology, Emma Reynolds taking on Environment, and Douglas Alexander being named Scotland Secretary in place of Ian Murray, who has left government. Jonathan Reynolds is now Chief Whip, with Sir Alan Campbell replacing him as Leader of the House of Commons. Chancellor Rachel Reeves remains steadfast in her role as the only minister whose position is guaranteed in the new lineup, providing stability within the leadership team. This reshuffle comes as Starmer seeks to reset the government’s momentum and reinforce his inner circle with trusted allies. It marks the first time that the three highest offices beneath the Prime Minister—Chancellor, Foreign Secretary, and Home Secretary—are all held by women.