Keir Starmer, Britain’s new prime minister following Labour’s 2024 election victory, has appointed Rachel Reeves as the country’s first female finance minister and Angela Rayner as his deputy prime minister.
Reeves, 45, a former Bank of England economist, aims to repair relations with the business community, while Rayner, 44, known for her grassroots ties, will oversee levelling up, housing, and communities.
Shabana Mahmood, a former barrister, takes on the roles of justice minister and lord chancellor, becoming the second woman after Liz Truss to hold these positions. David Lammy, 51, a long-time advocate for social and racial justice, becomes foreign minister, emphasising a policy of "progressive realism" in international affairs. Lisa Nandy, 42, assumes the role of culture minister, continuing Labour’s focus on arts and media policy.
Yvette Cooper, 55, a seasoned Labour politician, steps into the role of interior minister, pledging to focus on law and order. John Healey, 64, appointed as defence minister, vows to support Ukraine and advocate for peace in Gaza. Wes Streeting, 41, takes charge of the health ministry, tasked with addressing the NHS’s challenges.
Ed Miliband, 54, former Labour leader, leads efforts as energy security and net zero minister, focusing on green energy initiatives. Jonathan Reynolds, 43, assumes the position of business minister, aiming to strengthen ties between Labour and the business community.
Rachel Reeves – finance minister
Rachel Reeves, 45, a former Bank of England economist, takes charge as Britain’s first female finance minister.
She aims to mend relations with the business community and uphold fiscal discipline while exploring strategic investments.
Angela Rayner – deputy prime minister and secretary for levelling up, housing, and communities
Angela Rayner, 44, known for her grassroots ties, assumes the role of deputy prime minister.
She will also oversee efforts to promote equality across regions, housing initiatives, and community development.
Shabana Mahmood – justice minister and lord chancellor
Shabana Mahmood, a former barrister, becomes justice minister and lord chancellor.
She focuses on judicial reforms and upholding the rule of law, aiming to bring equitable justice to all.
David Lammy – foreign minister
David Lammy, 51, a vocal advocate for social justice, takes on the role of foreign minister.
He prioritises international relations based on "progressive realism," emphasising security, prosperity, and human rights.
Lisa Nandy – culture minister
Lisa Nandy, 42, assumes the position of culture minister, focusing on policies affecting arts, media, and cultural heritage.
Her role includes promoting cultural diversity and creative industries.
Yvette Cooper – interior minister
Yvette Cooper, 55, a veteran Labour politician, becomes interior minister.
She pledges to enhance domestic security and policing, focusing on law and order issues nationwide.
John Healey – defence minister
John Healey, 64, appointed as defence minister, vows to support national defence and international peace efforts.
He focuses on strategic defence policies amid global conflicts.
Wes Streeting – health minister
Wes Streeting, 41, tasked with overseeing Britain’s National Health Service (NHS), takes charge as health minister.
He aims to address healthcare challenges and improve NHS services.
Ed Miliband – energy security and net zero minister
Ed Miliband, 54, leads efforts as energy security and net zero minister.
He focuses on advancing Britain’s clean energy agenda and achieving environmental sustainability goals.
Jonathan Reynolds – business minister
Jonathan Reynolds, 43, becomes business minister, fostering partnerships between Labour and the business sector.
His focus includes promoting green energy investments and economic resilience.
(With inputs from Reuters)
Purushottam Agrawal and Linda Hess in conversation with Sanjoy K Roy
Swaransh Mishra, Kirpal Singh Panesar and Rajvir Singh Bhachu
