Keir Starmer has implemented a significant restructuring of his top team following Angela Rayner’s resignation related to her tax affairs. Rayner stepped down from her positions as Deputy Prime Minister, Housing Secretary, and Deputy Labour Leader after an ethics investigation found she had underpaid stamp duty on her property in Hove by £40,000.
Although the watchdog praised Rayner’s integrity and dedication to public service, it determined that she had breached the ministerial code, leading to her resignation. In her letter to the Prime Minister, Rayner took full responsibility for the error and emphasized that her intention was always to pay the correct amount.
The departure of Rayner, a key figure in the Labour Party, prompted Starmer to accelerate a planned reshuffle, resulting in significant changes at the top levels of government. David Lammy was appointed as the new Deputy Prime Minister, while Shabana Mahmood became the Home Secretary to address the ongoing small boats crisis.
Yvette Cooper was named the new Foreign Secretary, marking the first time in history that the major government offices after the Prime Minister are all held by women. Various other ministerial roles were reassigned, with Douglas Alexander returning as Scotland Secretary and several new appointments made to key positions.
Despite the reshuffle, some ministers, including Rachel Reeves, Bridget Phillipson, Ed Miliband, Lisa Nandy, Heidi Alexander, and Wes Streeting, retained their roles. A further reshuffle of junior ministerial positions is expected soon.
Rayner’s resignation has set the stage for a competitive race to choose the next deputy Labour leader, a contest that may reveal internal party divisions. Candidates vying for the position must secure support from 80 MPs, as well as backing from constituency parties and affiliated trade unions.