Prime Minister Andy Burnham has begun forming his new cabinet following his election as leader of the Labour Party, announcing key appointments including John Healey as Chancellor of the Exchequer.

Burnham took office after Sir Keir Starmer resigned, securing the backing of a significant majority of Labour MPs. His premiership is set to focus on shifting power away from the central government, increasing public control over essential utilities like water and energy, and boosting council house construction, while adhering to existing pledges on income tax, VAT, and National Insurance.

John Healey's appointment as Chancellor is a notable return to cabinet for the MP for Rawmarsh and Conisbrough. He had recently resigned as Defence Secretary, expressing strong concerns about the government's defense spending and the Treasury's commitment to national security. His prior experience includes serving as parliamentary private secretary to Chancellor Gordon Brown and holding ministerial positions in various departments between 2001 and 2010. Healey is recognized for his international economic connections.

Louise Haigh, described as a close ally of Burnham, has been appointed Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster, first secretary of state, and Cabinet Office minister. In this role, she will oversee the department responsible for supporting the Prime Minister and coordinating government policy implementation. Haigh entered Parliament in 2015 and was noted for her early parliamentary activity. She previously served as Transport Secretary but resigned from Sir Keir Starmer's cabinet in 2025 after admitting a fraud offense.

Ed Miliband has been appointed as the new Foreign Secretary. His inclusion in the cabinet marks a significant return to front-line politics for the former party leader.

Burnham, born in 1970, has a long history with the Labour Party, joining in his teens and first becoming an MP in 2001. He previously served as Health Secretary and twice sought leadership of the party, losing to Ed Miliband and Jeremy Corbyn. After leaving Parliament, he held the position of Greater Manchester mayor before returning as the MP for Makerfield.

The appointments signal a new direction for the Labour government, with a focus on key economic and domestic policy areas. The composition of the cabinet, particularly the inclusion of figures like Healey and Haigh, suggests a blend of experienced politicians and those closely aligned with Burnham's vision for the party and the country.

Further appointments to Burnham's cabinet are expected, and an interactive guide detailing the members and their roles is being updated as new positions are filled. The government faces the challenge of implementing its agenda while navigating the political landscape following the recent leadership change.