Key facts
- Andy Burnham reshuffled his cabinet, impacting more than half of the previous prime minister's team.
- Keir Starmer's allies described the reshuffle as factional and potentially retaliatory.
- Concerns were raised about the promotion of individuals perceived as disloyal to Starmer.
- Ministers like Nick Thomas-Symonds and Bridget Phillipson were seen as unfairly treated.
- Outgoing ministers were personally informed of the changes by Burnham.
Allies of Keir Starmer have expressed skepticism regarding Andy Burnham's recent cabinet reshuffle, suggesting it was driven by factionalism and retribution rather than a desire to end internal party disputes. The reshuffle saw more than half of the outgoing prime minister's cabinet removed or demoted.
One ally stated, "This was a deeply factional cabinet reshuffle," dismissing any other interpretation as "ridiculous." Another former official noted the surprise at the dismissal of "impressive people," while acknowledging that a new leader typically brings in their own team. The changes were reportedly handled sensitively, with outgoing ministers receiving direct calls from Burnham.
Special advisers, whose roles typically end with their boss's departure, have been given the opportunity to discuss their future with Alison Phillips, Burnham's deputy chief of staff. The overall sentiment among the outgoing team has been described as reflective rather than bitter, having had a month to process Starmer's decision to step down and pave the way for Burnham's succession.
A gathering attended by Starmer, Rachel Reeves, and former No. 10 officials was characterized as "jovial, but with more than a hint of anger." Sources close to this group described the period as highly emotional, likening the colleagues to a "family, bonded through fire." Despite the difficulty, there is a sense of having "handing over the country in a better place."
However, several Starmer allies indicated that while a reshuffle was expected, some dismissals appeared to be acts of retribution, with ministers allegedly targeted for their loyalty to Starmer. The treatment of Nick Thomas-Symonds and Bridget Phillipson, both seen as quietly loyal, was highlighted. In contrast, Wes Streeting and John Healey, who had previously resigned, were given senior positions. One outgoing official criticized this as sending a "dangerous message" by promoting disloyalty.
Further concerns were raised about a perceived imbalance, with more senior male staff surviving into the new regime than female staff. Currently, only one of the four great offices of state is held by a woman, a decrease from three. Despite these criticisms, there is an underlying acceptance of the harsh realities of politics, with one source noting that such roles are "not a job for life" and that "Labour governments don’t come around very often."