Keir Starmer Overhauls Cabinet After Angela Rayner’s Shock Resignation – Full List of Changes
Prime Minister Keir Starmer has fleetly reshaped his press following the dramatic abdication of Angela Rayner, who stepped down from multiple elderly places, including deputy high minister, casing clerk, and deputy leader of the Labour Party.
The move comes in the wake of a contestation regarding duty payments on a property purchase.
Angela Rayner Steps Down Amid Tax Dispute
Rayner’s departure stems from a ministerial code breach, according to a standards adviser. The controversy centred on her underpayment of stamp duty on a flat she bought in Hove, East Sussex.
She had believed, based on legal advice, that the property qualified for the standard rate as her main residence.
Her family home, owned by a trust for her disabled son, complicated matters. Later, it emerged she should have paid a higher rate.
Starmer acted quickly to ensure the government’s stability, filling critical roles to prevent political upheaval and reassure markets.
Chancellor Rachel Reeves remains in position, aiming to provide continuity and calm investor nerves.
Key Ministerial Moves – Who’s Where Now?
Prime Minister Keir Starmer conducted a major cabinet reshuffle: David Lammy becomes Deputy Prime Minister, Yvette Cooper takes on the role of Foreign Secretary, and Shabana Mahmood is appointed Home Secretary. Notably, for the first time, the three key offices below the PM are… pic.twitter.com/kP36wz1dtL
— Noor Alsheikh (@NoorAlsheikh13) September 6, 2025
David Lammy – Deputy PM and Justice Secretary
“David Lammy has moved from foreign secretary to justice secretary and has also been appointed deputy prime minister.”
Though technically a step down in title, Lammy’s new role reinforces his proximity to Starmer and central involvement in government affairs.
Yvette Cooper – Foreign Secretary
“Yvette Cooper, previously home secretary, now has become the foreign secretary.”
Her expertise in immigration and asylum matters will now inform foreign policy, signalling continuity with new responsibilities.
Shabana Mahmood – Home Secretary
“Shabana Mahmood, who was previously a justice secretary is now home secretary.”
Tasked with addressing illegal migration and protests, Mahmood’s appointment is a landmark moment – with women now occupying all top offices of state apart from the prime minister.
Pat McFadden – Head of New ‘Super Ministry’
“Pat McFadden, a key adviser to Starmer and previously the chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster and intergovernmental minister, becomes secretary of a new ‘super ministry’ that combines work and pensions with parts of the education brief, specifically skills training.”
McFadden’s new role will see him shaping employment and education policy across the board.
Darren Jones – Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster
“Darren Jones has been appointed chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster.”
This marks his second promotion in a week, granting him a vital coordinating role within the Cabinet Office.
Steve Reed – Housing Secretary
“Steve Reed, who was the environment secretary, now becomes housing secretary.”
Reed inherits one of the government’s most high-profile tasks: delivering on Labour’s target of 1.5 million new homes during this parliament.
Jonathan Reynolds – Chief Whip
“Jonathan Reynolds, previously business and trade secretary, becomes chief whip.”
Reynolds will oversee party discipline and ensure MPs support the government’s legislative agenda.
Peter Kyle – Business and Trade Secretary
“Peter Kyle moves from science secretary to business and trade secretary.”
A rising star in the party, Kyle will now lead efforts to secure trade deals abroad.
Emma Reynolds – Environment Secretary
“Emma Reynolds, formerly a junior Treasury minister, has received a major promotion to environment secretary.”
Her portfolio includes farming, water management, and environmental regulation – areas critical to both rural and urban policy.
Liz Kendall – Science, Innovation and Technology Secretary
“Liz Kendall, previously part of the Work and Pensions Secretary, takes over the science, innovation and technology secretary.”
Kendall will now guide policies on artificial intelligence and future technologies.
Douglas Alexander – Scotland Secretary
“Douglas Alexander, a former cabinet minister under Tony Blair and Gordon Brown and became the trade policy minister last year, is now Scotland secretary.”
He replaces Ian Murray, taking charge of devolved governance issues.
Alan Campbell – Leader of the House of Commons
“Alan Campbell, who served as chief whip, is now leader of the House of Commons and Lord President of the Council.”
Campbell’s role will be to coordinate government business in Parliament.
Cabinet Departures
Several ministers have exited the cabinet. Lucy Powell has been removed as leader of the House of Commons, while Ian Murray is no longer the Scottish clerk.
Bridget Phillipson remains education clerk, though her liabilities have been trimmed as the chops portfolio moves to Pat McFadden.
This reshuffle underscores Starmer’s determination to stabilise his government, support investor confidence, and steer Labour through turbulent waters.
The movables are both strategic and emblematic, signalling a new phase of leadership while keeping crucial numbers near.
With top places now increasingly held by women and youngish ministers, Starmer appears to be erecting an ultramodern, inclusive press, one that balances experience with ambition.
The coming months will test whether this new structure delivers the government’s pledges.
