“Never let a crisis go to waste” is a mantra the Prime Minister Keir Starmer and his top team are fond of, and one which has guided them as they have shaped the reshuffle over this momentous political weekend.   

The resignation of any senior Cabinet member presents a critical moment, but the resignation of one so politically and officially powerful as Angela Rayner had the potential to derail the government. Instead, the PM and Downing Street have attempted to grasp the nettle to create the type of government many believe he and his team would have liked in place from the beginning of his tenure. 

Before looking at what that change means, it is important to reflect on who remains in place. Despite much frenzied talk, the Chancellor Rachel Reeves remains firmly in her position. Reeves’ messaging on the economy was central to Labour’s election victory last year and that remains the ballast of Labour’s political strategy, reinforced by Darren Jones’ move to Chief Secretary – designed to increase the synergy between No.10 and No. 11. 

At the top levels of Cabinet, Peter Kyle has long been talked about for promotion. Taking over at the Department for Business and Trade (DBT) from Jonathan Reynolds, who quickly developed a reputation as a good partner for business whilst fronting up important trade deals and championing major investment projects, Kyle’s first priority will be indicating to business that he understands the key pressures on the private sector.  Business should expect an open door and a keen partner, with the zeal for delivery that the Prime Minister wants to see across his top team. 

While Jonathan Reynolds’ move to Chief Whip was a surprise to many, with the Party facing into the Deputy Leadership election, Reynolds will be central to Downing Street’s attempts to shape that outcome.  

Pat McFadden, who replaces Liz Kendall at DWP, is central to this emphasis on delivery. Much has been made of his appointment, and it is significant that skills has been incorporated into his brief.  

The elevation of Shabana Mahmood to Home Secretary is another move designed to bring someone who is admired and respected by the PM, and his Chief of Staff Morgan McSweeney, into a role of prominence and key political importance. Expect firmer language on illegal immigration, and the working practices that help to encourage it, as well as swifter action. 

Among the junior ranks, many of the 2024 intake of MPs have been singled out. Far more than being mere loyalists, there is a deep pool of talent now being deployed into roles where they can have the most impact. There are plenty who warrant a mention, but three standout appointments are worth noting. 

Kanishka Narayan, the new AI Minister working at DSIT, is already running a local constituency initiative to open young people’s doors to careers in tech and his background in the sector means he will be able to talk to businesses and stakeholders on their level from day one. 

Katie White, newly-appointed at the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero, is highly regarded by her peers, a close ally to the Chancellor, and brings a wealth of experience in the sector to her role. We can expect her to hit the ground running at the department. 

Blair McDougall, in as a junior minister at DBT is a shrewd operator and will have a keen eye on issues North of the border. Like his new boss at DBT, he is a strong relationship builder and will be keen to engage with businesses across sectors.   

Overall, it will be an exciting week for those getting to grips with their new roles across Whitehall, but they can expect that their feet will soon be held to the fire by the Prime Minister and his new Chief Secretary, as their appointments are designed to accelerate one thing: delivery.