Andy Burnham becomes prime minister on Monday (20 July) and at that point the make-up of the new Cabinet will be learned, with speculation mounting over the fate of Douglas Alexander as Scottish Secretary.
There has been jockeying for position among existing ministers and ambitious backbenchers, and rumours have swirled that Alexander could be replaced. While some within Scottish Labour criticise Alexander for being arrogant and overly brusque, and blame him for the party’s dreadful performance in the recent Holyrood election – of which he was a key architect – the New Statesman has argued strongly that he should be left in post unless promoted.
“Andy Burnham becomes PM on 20 July amid speculation Douglas Alexander may be replaced as Scottish Secretary.”
Meanwhile, the incoming government faces a pressing challenge on homelessness in Scotland. In an opinion piece for The Scotsman, Jackie Baillie notes that Labour once ended the need to sleep rough in Scotland, but that figures have been going the wrong way since the SNP won power. She argues that Burnham can succeed where the SNP have failed, suggesting the new prime minister will be judged on his ability to address rough sleeping.
The cabinet announcement, expected shortly after Burnham takes office, will reveal whether Alexander retains his role or is moved – and will set the tone for Labour’s approach to Scotland under its new leader.
