London, Sept. 5, 2025 — Prime Minister Keir Starmer reshaped his cabinet Friday in the wake of Deputy Prime Minister Angela Rayner’s resignation, elevating senior Labour figures into new roles that could shape the government’s direction on foreign policy, justice, and domestic security.
Yvette Cooper, one of Labour’s most experienced frontbenchers, was named foreign secretary, taking over from David Lammy, who will now serve as deputy prime minister and justice minister.
The moves follow a political storm surrounding Rayner, who stepped down after admitting she had underpaid property tax on a new home. Her departure left a vacuum in Starmer’s top team, prompting one of the most significant reshuffles since Labour took office.
Cooper Steps Onto the Global Stage
Cooper, long seen as a steady and pragmatic figure in Labour’s ranks, will now be tasked with leading Britain’s diplomacy at a turbulent moment in world affairs. With wars in Ukraine and the Middle East, ongoing tensions with China, and questions over the UK’s role in post-Brexit Europe, her appointment signals Starmer’s desire for continuity and competence abroad.
As foreign secretary, Cooper will also represent Britain at upcoming summits with NATO, the G7, and the UN, inheriting a demanding brief that requires balancing international crises with Britain’s long-term global strategy.
Lammy’s Dual Role
Lammy’s promotion to deputy prime minister cements his position as one of Starmer’s most trusted allies. In addition, he will take on the role of justice minister, overseeing reforms to the criminal justice system.
Lammy, a prominent voice on issues of race and equality, is expected to bring his combative style to both domestic and international debates. His new dual role underscores Starmer’s confidence in him as both a political operator and a public face of the government.
Mahmood to the Home Office
The reshuffle also elevated Shabana Mahmood, previously justice minister, to the role of home secretary. Mahmood will take charge of one of the most politically sensitive briefs in government, overseeing policies on crime, policing, and immigration — including Starmer’s commitment to crack down on illegal migration.
Her appointment is historic: Mahmood becomes one of the most senior Muslim women ever to hold a cabinet position in the UK.
Wider Changes
In addition to these headline moves, the government announced new appointments across departments, including environment, business, housing, and work and pensions. While not all names were immediately released, the reshuffle reflects Starmer’s effort to refresh his cabinet with both loyalists and rising figures ahead of tough legislative battles.
Political Context
Rayner’s resignation cast a shadow over Labour’s efforts to project stability, but the swift appointments suggest Starmer is keen to move past the controversy. By placing Cooper and Lammy in senior positions, he has chosen high-profile, media-savvy figures who can help steer both policy and public messaging.
The shake-up also positions Labour for the long game: with Trump’s White House exerting pressure on NATO and global institutions, and economic challenges at home mounting, Starmer’s team will need both experience and agility.
Looking Ahead
For Cooper, the foreign office will be her biggest test yet, offering a chance to cement her reputation as a stateswoman. For Lammy, his elevation signals that he is now firmly at the heart of Labour’s governing project. And for Mahmood, the home office will provide an opportunity to prove her mettle on one of Britain’s toughest briefs.
As one Labour MP put it Friday: “This reshuffle isn’t just about replacing Angela Rayner. It’s about Keir Starmer building the team that will carry him through the next phase of government.”
