Andy Burnham Appoints John Healey As Chancellor

John Healey has been appointed Chancellor of the Exchequer as Andy Burnham carried out a major shake-up at the top of government.

Other big names returning to the backbenches include David Lammy, Darren Jones, Peter Kyle and Steve Reed.

Healey’s appointment came as a major surprise as it was understood that Shabana Mahmood and Ed Miliband were the two frontrunners for the role.

It is thought that Mahmood may remain home secretary, with Miliband becoming foreign secretary.

Downing Street sources said Burnham wanted “an experienced, trusted figure” to deliver his economic vision.

“Andy Burnham and John Healey have the same outlook – not only on the need to maintain economic stability and the current fiscal rules, but on re-industrialisation, devolution, helping people with the cost-of-living crisis and backing British jobs and British industry to drive growth across the country,” a source said.

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