Angela Rayner might not be part of Burnham’s Cabinet (Image: Getty)
Angela Rayner was dealt a humiliating blow as GB News discussed whether her controversies had caused “reputational damage” so severe that she may not be an integral part of Andy Burnham‘s future Government. The former deputy prime minister was forced to step down from her role in September 2025 after it was found that she’d breached the ministerial code for failing to seek expert tax advice when purchasing an £800,000 flat in Hove, resulting in an underpayment of £40,000 in stamp duty. As Rayner was also the housing minister, she issued her formal resignation speech at the House of Commons in October 2025.
With Burnham becoming the front-runner to replace Keir Starmer, GB News’s Alex Armstrong listed his likely Cabinet to include Wes Streeting, Ed Miliband, Lisa Nandy and Shabana Mahmood. The presenter highlighted: “Off the list is Angela Rayner, the architect behind Andy Burnham’s devolution agenda.” Turning to his guests, Alex pointed out, “Everyone else seems to have quite a strong position; she’s coming from a position of weakness; she didn’t have to barter with him.” To which, guest Paul Cox questioned: “Where does she fit in it?”
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The panel went on to debate whether Rayner’s political experience and influence within the Labour Party would still make her a valuable figure despite the controversy surrounding her resignation. While acknowledging her role in helping shape Labour’s regional agenda in previous years, several contributors argued that public confidence in her leadership had been weakened by the findings of the ministerial code investigation.
Paul Cox suggested that any future Labour leader would have to carefully weigh the political costs and benefits of bringing Rayner back into a senior government position. “A new Prime Minister wants to begin with a Cabinet that projects stability and credibility,” he said. “Whether fairly or unfairly, Angela Rayner now carries political baggage that opponents would be quick to highlight.”
Alex Armstrong noted that Burnham, if he were to become Labour leader, would face pressure to reward allies while also demonstrating a commitment to high standards in public office. He argued that the composition of any future Cabinet would likely be viewed as an early indication of Burnham’s priorities and leadership style.
The discussion also explored the possibility that Rayner could remain influential behind the scenes rather than holding one of the most senior ministerial posts. Some commentators suggested she retained strong relationships across sections of the Labour movement and could continue contributing to policy development or campaigning, even if she were not immediately returned to Cabinet.
Others, however, questioned whether enough time had passed since her resignation for such a move to be politically viable. They argued that the controversy surrounding the stamp duty issue would almost certainly resurface if she were appointed to a prominent government role, potentially distracting from the new administration’s agenda.
The conversation comes amid increasing speculation over the future direction of the Labour Party following growing pressure on Sir Keir Starmer’s leadership. Although no leadership contest has formally begun, political observers have pointed to Andy Burnham as one of the party’s most recognisable figures should a vacancy arise.
Burnham, who has built a national profile through his work as Mayor of Greater Manchester, has repeatedly been linked with a return to Westminster. Supporters argue that his emphasis on regional investment, public services and devolution has broadened his appeal beyond traditional Labour strongholds. Critics, however, have questioned whether his local government experience would necessarily translate into success on the national stage.
As speculation over a potential leadership transition continues, analysts believe the makeup of any future shadow cabinet or government team will remain a closely watched issue. Decisions over senior appointments are expected to reveal not only political alliances but also how a new leader intends to balance experience, public perception and internal party unity.
For now, neither Burnham nor Rayner has publicly commented on the latest speculation regarding potential Cabinet roles. With Labour’s future leadership remaining uncertain, questions over who could occupy the party’s most influential positions are likely to continue generating debate among political commentators and party members alike.
The discussion prompted further debate among political commentators about how much weight should be given to past controversies when selecting senior ministers. Some argued that political careers have often recovered from setbacks, provided those involved accepted responsibility and rebuilt public trust over time. Others maintained that ministerial appointments should reflect not only experience but also the highest standards of accountability.
Several analysts suggested that Burnham, if he were to lead Labour into a general election, would be under pressure to assemble a team capable of appealing to both traditional Labour supporters and swing voters. In that context, every Cabinet appointment would likely face intense scrutiny from opposition parties and the media, particularly those involving figures who had previously resigned from government.
During the GB News discussion, panelists also highlighted the importance of presenting a united front at a time when Labour would be seeking to demonstrate its readiness for government. They argued that internal divisions or prolonged speculation over senior appointments could distract from the party’s policy agenda and messaging.
Despite the questions surrounding her future, some contributors acknowledged Rayner’s long-standing role within the Labour movement. They pointed to her experience in Parliament, her campaigning record, and her influence over issues such as workers’ rights and regional development. Supporters have argued that these credentials should not be overlooked when assessing her potential role in any future administration.
Others, however, contended that political perception can be just as important as experience. They suggested that any decision to restore Rayner to a high-profile Cabinet position would inevitably attract renewed attention to the circumstances surrounding her resignation, potentially overshadowing the government’s early priorities.
The debate reflects a broader question facing political parties across the United Kingdom: how to balance loyalty, experience and public confidence when selecting senior ministers. Leadership transitions often involve difficult choices between rewarding long-standing allies and demonstrating a commitment to political renewal.
While no official announcements have been made regarding the composition of any future Labour Cabinet, speculation is expected to continue as discussions over the party’s leadership evolve. Until a formal leadership contest is held and a new leader is chosen, any predictions about ministerial appointments remain hypothetical and should be treated as political analysis rather than confirmed plans.