New UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer has unveiled his cabinet, marking a historic moment by appointing Rachel Reeves as the country’s first female Chancellor of the Exchequer. Angela Rayner has been named Deputy Prime Minister, as part of a team that includes a record 11 women in the 25-member cabinet.
Key appointments include Yvette Cooper as Home Secretary, David Lammy as Foreign Secretary, and John Healey as Defence Secretary. Shabana Mahmood has been appointed Justice Secretary, Wes Streeting as Health Secretary, Bridget Phillipson as Education Secretary, and Ed Miliband as Energy Secretary.
In his inaugural speech at Downing Street, Starmer pledged to address the country’s 'struggling' healthcare system, secure British borders, and focus on the need for schools and affordable housing.
"Our country has voted decisively for change and a return of politics to public service", Starmer stated. He emphasized that 'changing a country is not like flicking a switch' and acknowledged the increasing volatility of the global landscape.
Starmer assured that the work for change would begin immediately but acknowledged it would take time. He underscored his focus on issues affecting working-class families, expressing a commitment to fighting for a better future for all.
"If I asked you now whether you believed that Britain will be better for your children, I know too many of you will say no and so my government will fight until you believe again", he concluded.