Andy Burnham’s Cabinet Predictions: Key Figures and Possible Exclusions

As Andy Burnham prepares to become the UK's next prime minister, speculation is rife about who will join his cabinet and who will be left out.

As the political landscape in the UK shifts, all eyes are on Andy Burnham, the former Greater Manchester mayor who is poised to become the next prime minister. With this transition comes the inevitable question: who will join his cabinet, and who will be left out?

The speculation is intense, with various figures being touted for key roles.

Here, we explore the potential inclusions and exclusions in Burnham’s cabinet, based on recent political maneuvers and alliances.

Likely Cabinet Members

Several figures are almost certain to secure prominent positions in Burnham’s cabinet. Ed Miliband the energy secretary, is a strong contender for the role of chancellor.

His allies have been actively promoting this idea, and his experience as a Labour heavyweight makes him a natural fit. Even if he doesn’t become chancellor, Miliband’s inclusion in the cabinet seems inevitable.

Shabana Mahmood currently serving as home secretary, is another key figure.

Her hardline policies on immigration could balance Burnham’s more left-leaning approach. Wes Streeting who recently resigned from his health secretary position, is also in the running for a significant role, possibly as chancellor or foreign secretary.

Angela Rayner the former deputy prime minister, is expected to return to a prominent position after being cleared of any wrongdoing by HMRC. Her influence on Labour’s left wing makes her a crucial ally for Burnham. Lou Haigh who resigned as transport secretary, is another likely returnee, given her organizational role in Burnham’s campaign.

Anneliese Midgley and Sally Jameson both relatively new to parliament but with strong backgrounds in Labour politics, are also expected to take on significant roles. Yvette Cooper the foreign secretary, is likely to retain a high-profile position, given her extensive experience and close working relationship with Burnham.

Lisa Nandy the culture secretary, is ideologically aligned with Burnham and could see her role expanded. Douglas Alexander the Scotland secretary, brings valuable experience from his time in the Blair and Brown cabinets. Miatta Fahnbulleh with her economic background, is an outside bet for chancellor.

Jonathan Reynolds is another figure who could return to a significant role, having been very visible during Burnham’s recent political activities.

Potential but Uncertain Inclusions

Several other figures could find themselves in Burnham’s cabinet, but their inclusion is less certain. Nick Thomas-Symonds currently responsible for European links, is close to Starmer but could retain his role given the importance of upcoming EU summits. Rachel Reeves the UK’s first female chancellor, attended Burnham’s rally, but her future remains unclear.

Darren Jones a key figure in Starmer’s government, is considered an effective operator and could find a role in Burnham’s cabinet. John Healey who recently departed over defense investment plans, might return in a different capacity. Bridget Phillipson the education secretary, is not overly tribal and could retain her position or take on a new role.

David Lammy the justice secretary and deputy PM, is a major figure in the current government. His transition to Burnham’s cabinet is uncertain but not impossible. Dan Jarvis currently the defense minister, could return to a more junior role after overseeing the defense investment plan.

Likely Exclusions

Not everyone in the current government is expected to make the transition to Burnham’s cabinet. Steve Reed the communities secretary, is a staunch Starmer loyalist and is likely to return to the backbenches. Richard Hermer the attorney general, is expected to return to his legal career and work in the upper house.

Peter Kyle the business secretary, has no particular ties to Team Burnham and is likely to be sidelined. Liz Kendall another Starmer ally, is also expected to be left out of the new cabinet.

As the political landscape continues to evolve, the exact composition of Burnham’s cabinet remains to be seen. However, the figures mentioned above are among the most likely to shape the future of UK politics under his leadership.