Andy Burnham is almost certain to become the next Prime Minister next month, barring a contest, making him the first PM in over 60 years not elected at the previous general election. Attention now turns to his Cabinet choices, which will signal his economic direction and political stance. His biggest decision will be who to appoint as Chancellor, a choice that will affect businesses, markets, and the country's economic approach.
Ed Miliband: The Frontrunner with Left-Wing Concerns
Ed Miliband, the current Energy Secretary, is one of Burnham's biggest supporters in the Starmer Cabinet, reportedly putting him in the PM's bad books. He is considered the most likely Chancellor pick due to his Treasury experience, having served as Chairman of Gordon Brown's Council of Economic Advisers over 20 years ago. However, recent briefings against him cite concerns that his appointment would mark a sharp shift to the left and a return to an earlier generation of Labour politicians, alongside Burnham, who first served under Tony Blair.
Wes Streeting: The Right-Wing Balance
Wes Streeting, former Health Secretary, initially aimed for the Labour leadership after the May 7 election results but threw his support behind Burnham after Keir Starmer's resignation. He denied being promised a Cabinet position in return, telling the BBC: 'He has not offered me any jobs. That's not what our conversations have been about. This has been about ideas.' Bookmakers see him as a top pick for Chancellor, offering a ticket that balances Burnham's 'soft left' with a Chancellor closer to the party's right.
Rachel Reeves: Likely Out
Rachel Reeves, closely tied to Starmer's premiership, is expected to be replaced. The Times reported she would be booted out as Chancellor when Starmer goes. While she might argue for stability, her association with unpopular policies makes her continuation unlikely.
Pat McFadden: The Safe Pair of Hands
Pat McFadden, current Work and Pensions Secretary, is a loyal Starmer minister but has extensive experience in Treasury-linked roles and the Business Department under the previous Labour government. He was a top pick to replace Reeves last year and could reassure markets as a 'safe pair of hands'.
Other Possibilities
Burnham's long absence from Westminster means he knows few MPs well. He might reward allies like Anneliese Midgley or ex-Transport Secretary Louise Haigh, or appoint current Cabinet ministers like Shabana Mahmood or Yvette Cooper. With a short timeline before taking office, he may need to decide quickly.
