Chaos in Labour as Angela Rayner Resigns and Starmer Gambles on Big Reshuffle
The political world has been thrown into turmoil after Angela Rayner, one of Labour’s most recognisable figures and the deputy prime minister, resigned in dramatic fashion. Her departure came after it was concluded she had underpaid stamp duty on her flat in Hove, a misstep that forced her hand. For someone who rose from being a teenage mum on a council estate to serving at the very top of government, she described the role as the greatest honour of her life. But now, her resignation has shaken the foundations of Sir Keir Starmer’s government.
The reaction in the press has been nothing short of brutal. The Times framed it as “The Great Rayner Reshuffle,” suggesting that Starmer’s cabinet overhaul was an attempt to regain control of his top team. The Daily Mail was even harsher, calling it a “Nightmare on Downing Street,” and branding Labour’s leadership as chaotic and desperate. Meanwhile, the Financial Times took a more cautious view, saying this shake-up was a “big gamble.” Many ministers were not removed but shuffled into new roles, raising doubts about whether the changes will actually deliver improvement.
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Yvette Cooper was moved from the Home Office to become foreign secretary, even though her record on tackling small boat crossings was criticised. Shabana Mahmood, described as a rising star within Labour, has stepped in as the new home secretary, with reports that she will adopt a harder line on migration in an effort to blunt Nigel Farage’s growing Reform UK movement. Ed Miliband keeps his role as net zero secretary, while Pat McFadden has been handed a new super-department to focus on growth and pensions.
But the real drama doesn’t stop with the reshuffle. Rayner’s resignation has triggered not only a government crisis but also a party-wide battle for Labour’s deputy leadership. Names like Shabana Mahmood, Ed Miliband, Emily Thornberry, and Wes Streeting are already being floated as contenders. David Lammy, who has just been promoted to deputy prime minister, is also a figure to watch closely. The contest will be fought under Labour’s rules, with MPs, constituency parties, and trade unions all playing a role in deciding who will take Rayner’s place within the party ranks.
The timing could not be worse for Starmer. Polls already show Labour slipping, with Reform UK gaining ground and Farage loudly proclaiming that Labour is “not fit to govern.” Inside the Labour movement, many members feel the party is heading in the wrong direction, and discontent is growing. Starmer had hoped this week would mark a reset, a “phase two” focused on delivery. Instead, he finds himself battling a full-blown crisis.
Angela Rayner’s absence leaves a big hole. She was someone who could connect with voters in a way Starmer often struggled to. To some, she is already becoming a martyr figure within the party — perhaps even a future challenger. For now, though, Starmer has taken the gamble of a major reshuffle, betting that a new-look team can steady the ship. Whether this bold move saves his government or sinks it further will become clear in the weeks ahead.
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