The highly anticipated appointment of Andy Burnham's cabinet is generating intense speculation and gossip in Westminster. As the former Mayor of Greater Manchester prepares to take over as Prime Minister on Monday, the focus is on who will fill the key roles in his government.
One of the most hotly debated positions is the Chancellor of the Exchequer, with Ed Miliband and Wes Streeting being among the favorites to secure the top spot. However, recent days have seen a shift in expectations, with Shabana Mahmood being tipped to take over from her current role as Home Secretary.
Opponents of Miliband argue that his passion for net zero may be at odds with the views of Labour's industrial heartlands, while Mahmood's radical approach to immigration reform has made her unpopular with some Labour MPs. Despite this, she is seen as someone unafraid to make tough decisions and has impressed in her current role.
Other contenders for the role of Chancellor include Yvette Cooper, Pat McFadden, and John Healey, although they may be seen as not bold enough to carry out Burnham's proposed 'rewiring' of the country.
The position of Foreign Secretary has also sparked intense speculation, with Yvette Cooper reportedly arguing to stay in the role due to the high number of foreign secretaries in recent years. Ed Miliband could be offered the job if he is passed over for the Treasury gig, although it is unclear if he would accept.
In the meantime, speculation continues to surround the role of Home Secretary, with Shabana Mahmood being said to be enthusiastic about keeping her current brief. However, if Burnham decides to row back on some of her more drastic measures, she may be replaced by a new candidate, with Wes Streeting being a possible contender.
Burnham faces a significant challenge in appointing the right people to the right jobs, while also satisfying those who helped him secure the leadership. The new PM will be hoping that his appointments do not carry too much of a grudge from those who are disappointed.
