Sackings, cabinet surprises and policies: Andy Burnham's first 24 hours as PM
Newly appointed Prime Minister Andy Burnham has initiated a rapid cabinet reshuffle, including the surprising appointment of John Healey as Chancellor. The move follows a period of political instability and resignations within the Labour government.
Why it matters
The reshuffle signals a significant shift in the UK's economic and defense policy direction under the new administration.
Image source, Getty Images By Joe Pike Political correspondent Published 21 July 2026 Shortly after Andy Burnham telephoned a number of Keir Starmer's allies to sack them from the cabinet on Monday afternoon, John Healey received the signal to head to Number 10.
Wearing a suit and one of his many red ties, the former defence secretary left parliament alone via a back entrance next to a pub.
"I'm on my way to a meeting," he said with a slight smile as he marched down Whitehall.
Healey's imminent appointment as chancellor was a surprise - to him, to his Labour colleagues, and to the British public.
It was a consequential moment among a flurry of announcements from the new prime minister, including today's cut in VAT on energy bills , that demonstrate the new government's intention to move at breakneck speed - at least for now.
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