He now controls the treasury – and insists he is “burning with passion” for the Treasury.
Wes Streeting
Wes Streeting had long been seen as aspiring to the top job. So when he resigned as health secretary in May, criticizing the government’s “indolence” and lack of “vision”, many expected a swift bid to replace the prime minister himself.
Streeting’s allies claimed he had the backing of 81 Labor MPs to launch a challenge to Starmer – but a few weeks later he announced his support for Burnham to become Labor leader and prime minister.
There were questions at the time about what plan was in place to secure Streeting’s support. Now he has been appointed defense secretary, a promotion from his old gig and the chance, like Miliband, to work around the world.
Louise Haigh
The architect of Burnham’s ascension, Louise Haigh had an ax to grind against Starmer – and she used it brilliantly.
Haigh was briefly transport secretary under the former prime minister, but resigned following revelations that he pleaded guilty to fraud more than a decade ago. Partners said at the time that Starmer was aware of these details before his appointment.
