On September 5, 2025, the UK government underwent a major transformation as David Lammy was appointed Deputy Prime Minister and Justice Secretary, replacing Angela Rayner following her resignation over a tax scandal. This sweeping cabinet reshuffle marks a crucial turning point in British politics under Prime Minister Keir Starmer.
Overview of the UK Cabinet Reshuffle
The resignation of Angela Rayner, a key Labour figure, sparked a broad reorganization of top government roles. David Lammy has also taken the position of Lord Chancellor, while several other senior appointments were made to ensure stability and regain public confidence.
Key highlights of the reshuffle:
- David Lammy: Appointed Deputy Prime Minister, Justice Secretary, and Lord Chancellor
- Yvette Cooper: Moved from Home Secretary to Foreign Secretary
- Shabana Mahmood: Became new Home Secretary
- Steve Reed: Appointed Housing Secretary
- Pat McFadden: Named Secretary of State for Work & Pensions
- Emma Reynolds, Peter Kyle, Douglas Alexander, Liz Kendall, Jonathan Reynolds: Appointed to significant new cabinet roles
What Triggered the Cabinet Changes?
Angela Rayner resigned after an inquiry found she breached the ministerial code over underpaid stamp duty, causing a leadership vacuum at the top of the government. This led Prime Minister Keir Starmer to launch a major cabinet reshuffle aimed at maintaining party unity and responding to economic and political challenges facing the UK government.
Major Political Implications
- Leadership Vacuum: Rayner’s exit could lead to internal contests for Labour’s deputy leadership.
- Starmer’s Strategy: Loyal deputies like Lammy and Mahmood have been elevated to reinforce authority and handle growing economic pressures, such as the looming £40 billion budget shortfall.
- Party Dynamics: The changes could either strengthen Starmer’s position or risk internal Labour rivalries, depending on how future deputy leadership elections unfold.
Inside the New UK Cabinet Line-up
- Deputy Prime Minister, Justice Secretary, Lord Chancellor: David Lammy
- Foreign Secretary: Yvette Cooper
- Home Secretary: Shabana Mahmood
- Housing Secretary: Steve Reed
- Work & Pensions Secretary: Pat McFadden
- Other new cabinet members: Emma Reynolds, Peter Kyle, Douglas Alexander, Liz Kendall, Jonathan Reynolds
This 2025 reshuffle is seen as Starmer’s decisive response to political turbulence, paving the way for his core team to manage upcoming challenges and stabilize party support across the UK.
Key Takeaways for Competitive Exams
- David Lammy appointed UK Deputy Prime Minister, Justice Secretary, and Lord Chancellor on 5 September 2025.
- Resignation of Angela Rayner (tax scandal) triggered the first major cabinet reshuffle under PM Keir Starmer.
- Yvette Cooper became Foreign Secretary, Shabana Mahmood Home Secretary.
- Reshuffle aims to restore government stability ahead of November budget and economic challenges.
- Important for exam questions on British politics, cabinet roles, and recent political history.
