Healey Named UK Chancellor, Miliband Appointed Foreign Secretary as Burnham Unveils New Cabinet

British Prime Minister Andy Burnham has appointed John Healey as Chancellor of the Exchequer and Ed Miliband as Foreign Secretary, unveiling the first senior appointments in a Cabinet reshuffle following his election as leader of the governing Labour Party.

Burnham announced the appointments shortly after taking office, replacing several ministers who had served under former Prime Minister Keir Starmer. The reshuffle marks the beginning of Burnham’s effort to establish his administration and set out his priorities for government.

Healey, who previously served as Secretary of State for Defence, succeeds Rachel Reeves as Britain’s finance minister. A long serving Labour lawmaker, Healey also held the role of Economic Secretary to the Treasury between 2002 and 2007, giving him prior experience in economic policy. His appointment comes as the government faces slowing economic growth, pressure on public finances and demands for increased investment in public services and defence.

Miliband, a former Labour leader and most recently Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, takes over as Foreign Secretary. He replaces David Lammy and is expected to lead Britain’s diplomatic engagement on issues including the wars in Ukraine and the Middle East, trade relations and international climate cooperation.

Burnham said his new Cabinet would focus on restoring economic confidence, improving public services and delivering stable leadership. The prime minister has pledged to address the rising cost of living, strengthen the National Health Service and pursue policies aimed at boosting long term economic growth while maintaining the United Kingdom’s support for its international allies.

Political analysts say the appointments reflect Burnham’s decision to combine experienced ministers with a renewed policy agenda as Labour seeks to consolidate public support. Financial markets and international partners are expected to closely watch the new government’s economic and foreign policy priorities in the coming weeks.