Who's in the cabinet?

Andy Burnham has officially stepped into the role of Prime Minister, forming his new cabinet after Sir Keir Starmer's departure.

Burnham, who secured strong backing from Labour MPs, has outlined an agenda focused on decentralizing power away from Whitehall. His key pledges include greater public control over the water and energy sectors and a commitment to increasing the supply of council housing. He aims to achieve these goals while adhering to Labour's existing promise not to raise income tax, VAT, or National Insurance.

Notable appointments to his cabinet include John Healey, who returns as Chancellor. Healey had previously expressed strong criticism regarding the government's defense spending. Louise Haigh has been appointed Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster, First Secretary of State, and Minister for the Cabinet Office. Haigh is expected to lead Number 10 North, a new unit designed to redistribute power and support regional reforms in utilities, reindustrialization, and regeneration.

The article also provides brief biographical details on the key figures, highlighting Burnham's long-standing involvement in the Labour Party and his previous roles, including as Greater Manchester mayor. Healey's international economic connections and Haigh's reputation for diligence and intensity in Parliament are also mentioned.