Keir Starmer, the newly elected Prime Minister of the United Kingdom, swiftly began his tenure on Friday by making key cabinet appointments following his Labour Party’s landslide victory in the general election. This victory, which ended 14 years of Conservative rule, marks a significant shift in the UK’s political landscape.
Starmer, the first Labour Prime Minister since Gordon Brown in 2010, was officially invited to form a government by King Charles III during a meeting at Buckingham Palace. In his inaugural speech as Prime Minister, Starmer emphasised a commitment to “rebuild” the nation, reflecting the public’s desire for substantial change.
“Our country has voted decisively for change, for national renewal, and a return of politics to public service,” Starmer, 61, declared. “The work of change begins immediately, but rest assured, we will rebuild Britain.”
New Cabinet Appointments
Starmer’s initial cabinet appointments signal a blend of experience and new perspectives. The new UK prime minister appointed Rachel Reeves as the UK’s first female Chancellor of the Exchequer. Other key members of the new cabinet include:
- Angela Rayner – Deputy Prime Minister
- David Lammy – Foreign Secretary
- Yvette Cooper – Home Secretary
- Pat McFadden – Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster
- Shabana Mahmood – Justice Secretary
- Wes Streeting – Health Secretary
- Bridget Phillipson – Education Secretary
- Ed Miliband – Energy Secretary
- Peter Kyle – Science, Innovation and Technology Secretary
- Louise Haigh – Transport Secretary
- Liz Kendall – Work and Pensions Secretary
- Jonathan Reynolds – Business and Trade Secretary
- John Healey – Defence Secretary
- Steve Reed – Environment Secretary
- Lisa Nandy – Culture, Media and Sport Secretary
- Hilary Benn – Northern Ireland Secretary
- Ian Murray – Scotland Secretary
- Jo Stevens – Wales Secretary
Immediate Diplomatic Engagements
Within hours of his appointment, Starmer engaged in conversations with US President Joe Biden and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, reaffirming the UK’s steadfast support for Ukraine in its conflict with Russia.
“I look forward to our shared work in support of freedom and democracy around the world, and to further strengthening the special relationship between our two countries,” Biden said on X (formerly Twitter).
Conservative Concession
The election results were a crushing blow to the Conservative Party, with outgoing Prime Minister Rishi Sunak conceding defeat. The Conservatives lost a significant number of seats, including those of at least 12 senior cabinet members, reflecting public discontent that had been building over years of leadership turmoil and economic instability.
Before departing Downing Street, Sunak expressed regret to the public and announced he would step down as Conservative leader once a successor is chosen. This defeat marks the worst electoral performance for the Conservatives since 1906, securing only 121 seats in the 650-seat House of Commons, while Labour won 412 constituencies, achieving a majority of 174 seats.
Global Reactions and Future Prospects
The election outcome has garnered reactions from leaders worldwide. European leaders, including Germany’s Chancellor Olaf Scholz, extended congratulations, expressing confidence in Starmer’s leadership. Zelensky reiterated the strong alliance between the UK and Ukraine.
In London, the public response was overwhelmingly positive, with many expressing optimism about the future. “It has been very rocky over the last few months and years. I’m really excited to see what happens next,” said Ramsey Sargent, a 49-year-old engagement officer.
Also Read: Keir Starmer: Oldest UK Prime Minister?
Challenges Ahead
Starmer’s administration faces significant challenges, including revitalising the economy, addressing public service strains, and managing the financial pressures on households. His promise to restore political integrity follows a tumultuous period marked by scandal and mismanagement under Conservative rule.
With a focus on unity and renewal, Starmer’s leadership represents a new chapter for the UK, as the country looks forward to a period of rebuilding and progress. The Labour Party’s victory not only reflects a demand for change but also a hopeful vision for the future of Britain.
