Andy Burnham is finalising his cabinet choices ahead of becoming prime minister on Monday, telling reporters he will announce his top team after a reception with King Charles III. The new Labour leader, who returned to Parliament only a month ago in a by-election, said it would be “somewhat premature” to name ministers before he takes power, warning that to do otherwise would “cause complete chaos”.
Burnham’s uncontested coronation at a special conference in London was announced by Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood, who called it “hardly a nailbiter”. But the real drama is unfolding behind the scenes. Ed Miliband and Shabana Mahmood are thought to be in the running to replace Rachel Reeves as chancellor, while David Miliband — a veteran New Labour figure who has spent more than a decade running a refugee charity in the US — is being tipped for a return as foreign secretary. In a speech at the London School of Economics, David Miliband backed Burnham’s devolution agenda, calling it “long overdue”.
“Burnham finalises cabinet amid speculation over Miliband return; Farage attacks mandate, Davey offers collaboration.”
The incoming prime minister promised the “most significant change” in politics for 40 years, vowing to reject the “neoliberal” policies of the past and reindustrialise the country. He said his government would give “hope back” to working-class communities that the political class had “turned its back on”. Devolution will be central, with Burnham reiterating his plan to push power away from Westminster to the regions. In a message to Labour MPs, he called for a culture of “one Labour team”, urging them to avoid infighting.
Not everyone is impressed. Reform UK leader Nigel Farage said Burnham “comes in with absolutely no mandate of any kind at all” and called for “an immediate general election so the country can decide the future”. But Lib Dem leader Sir Ed Davey welcomed Burnham’s call for a more collaborative politics, saying “my door is open”. Davey singled out changes to the water industry, NHS support and social care reforms as areas where the Lib Dems would seek influence.
Burnham, who cemented his leadership after being backed by 379 Labour MPs and all 11 affiliated trade unions, said his cabinet would reflect “all parts of our party” and “all communities”. The question is whether bringing back the Blair-era Miliband fits that promise — or risks reigniting old factional battles just as Burnham tries to unite the party.
