David Lammy is set to take over as deputy Prime Minister following Angela Rayner’s resignation in a surprising turn of events. Keir Starmer has reorganized his top team, appointing Yvette Cooper as the new Foreign Secretary in place of Mr. Lammy. Shabana Mahmood, who previously served as Labour’s Justice Secretary, will now lead the Home Office.
With 25 years of experience as an MP, Mr. Lammy will also assume responsibility for the Ministry of Justice. Rayner’s resignation came after revelations that she had underpaid stamp duty on a property in Hove, Sussex. The ethics watchdog, Sir Laurie Magnus, acknowledged Rayner’s integrity but found her in breach of the ministerial code.
In the wake of the reshuffle, sources indicated that Chancellor Rachel Reeves would retain her position. Exiting the team were Lucy Powell, Leader of the House of Commons, and Scottish Secretary Ian Murray. Notable changes include Pat McFadden as the new Work and Pensions Secretary, Steve Reed taking over as Housing Secretary, and Peter Kyle handling the business portfolio.
Liz Kendall will now serve as the Technology Secretary, and Emma Reynolds has been promoted to lead the Department for Environment, Food, and Rural Affairs. In a statement, Powell expressed gratitude for her time in government and highlighted the need for positive change and progress in public life.
Murray emphasized the importance of progressive change and unity in the current political landscape. Despite being disappointed to leave the government, he looks forward to spending more time with his family while continuing to serve his constituents in Edinburgh South.
Earlier, Rayner resigned from her government position after an ethics review found she had breached the ministerial code by underpaying stamp duty on a seaside flat. She admitted to not seeking specialist tax advice and took full responsibility for the error. Despite the misstep, Rayner expressed her commitment to upholding high standards in public service. Starmer affirmed Rayner’s continued significance within the party and her dedication to important causes.
