UK PM Andy Burnham Reshuffles Cabinet, Appointing New Key Ministers

British Prime Minister Andy Burnham convened his first cabinet meeting on Tuesday, July 21, 2026, following a significant reshuffle that saw several key figures removed or reassigned. John Healey, a veteran Labour politician, has made a surprising return to government as the new Chancellor of the Exchequer. Healey, 66, who previously served as Defence Secretary and advocated for increased military spending and a strong stance against Russian aggression, brings nearly three decades of parliamentary experience representing a northern English constituency. Ed Miliband, a former leader of the Labour Party, has been appointed as the new Foreign Secretary. Miliband, who had a political comeback after a period out of the spotlight, previously served as energy security minister and campaigned for a net-zero economy. Wes Streeting, 43, takes on the role of Defence Secretary, having resigned as Health Minister in May. His appointment, however, has drawn criticism from some quarters, including former Defence Secretary Ben Wallace, who viewed it as a sign of "contempt for Defence." Streeting has also faced scrutiny over his past associations. Shabana Mahmood, 45, returns as Home Secretary, a position she has held since 2025, vowing to continue her reforms of the UK's asylum system and reduce migration. Angela Rayner is reappointed as Housing Secretary, a portfolio she previously held before resigning in September over unpaid property tax, which she has since settled. Miatta Fahnbulleh, 46, becomes the new Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, taking over from Miliband. A relatively new MP, Fahnbulleh brings a background in economics and policy development. Yvette Cooper, 57, moves from Foreign Secretary to become the new Health Secretary, having previously held significant roles in housing and work and pensions, as well as serving as Home Secretary.