Rachel Reeves: ‘I m proud’ After Andy Burnham Cabinet Shakeup
Traveloasisspot.com – It was a moment of reflection for Rachel Reeves as she announced her reaction to leaving the Chancellor’s office. The former first female Chancellor of the Exchequer shared her feelings publicly, stating simply: “I m proud.” This sentiment came as newly appointed Prime Minister Andy Burnham completed a sweeping cabinet reshuffle, with Reeves among the senior ministers to step down from her historic position.
The announcement on Monday afternoon marked the beginning of a new chapter for the Labour government. Alongside Reeves, several other high-profile figures lost their roles in Burnham’s first major reshuffle. Deputy Prime Minister David Lammy, housing secretary Steve Reed, and business secretary Peter Kyle all departed as the Prime Minister moved to install his preferred team of advisors and ministers.
Healey Takes the Helm at the Exchequer
According to BBC reports, Reeves was initially approached with an offer for a significant new role within Burnham’s cabinet. However, she declined the position, choosing instead to clear the way for fresh economic leadership. John Healey has now been confirmed as the new Chancellor of the Exchequer, while Ed Miliband steps into the Foreign Secretary position.
Healey arrives at the Treasury with substantial credentials, having previously held the defence secretary portfolio under Keir Starmer. His departure from that role came on June 11 after a public disagreement over defence spending priorities. Reflecting on his new appointment, Healey called the Chancellorship the “greatest privilege” of his career.
“Together, we will build a new economy, build new hope and advance the working people of this country,” he wrote on X, setting out his vision for the nation’s future.
Reeves Celebrates Her Historic Achievement
The first woman to hold the Chancellor position responded to her departure with characteristic poise. In a statement posted on social media platform X, Reeves expressed unwavering support for both Andy Burnham and his new cabinet. She emphasized her commitment to continuing her work in helping the Labour government deliver on its promises.
“I wish the very best of luck to my successor, Andy and his cabinet. You have my full support, and I will continue to play my part in helping this Labour government deliver the change the country needs.”
Reeves’ statement highlighted the progress made during her time in office. She noted that the economy had grown stronger, fairer, and more resilient thanks to Labour’s policy decisions over the previous two years. Her tenure saw the restoration of stability, the delivery of investment, and the initiation of comprehensive economic reform.
“I said when I was appointed Chancellor that I would judge my time in office if the lives [of] ordinary working class people have been improved. I’m proud to say that they have,” the statement concluded, echoing her opening sentiment of pride.
Reeves’ reaction of “I m proud” resonated with many who followed her political journey. Her statement went on to address younger generations directly, encouraging women and girls to pursue their ambitions without limits.
“And to every young woman and girl let my time in office show there should be no ceilings on your ambitions, your hopes or your dreams,” she added in her farewell statement.
Her departure was widely anticipated as part of Burnham’s planned cabinet changes following his election as Labour leader. Reeves’ time as Chancellor has been defined by both accomplishments and challenges, including navigating the economic turbulence caused by Trump’s tariffs on British trade.
Despite facing headwinds, Reeves struggled to maintain strong public approval, becoming the most unpopular chancellor in British history by November with approval ratings at minus 71. Yet she remains proud of her achievement as the 109th person to hold the Chancellor position since its creation, and the first woman to ever assume this prestigious role.
The cabinet reshuffle signals a fresh beginning for the Labour government under Burnham’s leadership. With new faces taking on critical responsibilities, the country looks toward economic recovery and sustained growth in the months ahead.
