Sir Keir Starmer is reportedly preparing a major post-election Cabinet reshuffle in the days following the 7 May local polls, with Labour Chancellor Rachel Reeves’ position under threat. Sources close to Downing Street reveal this move is seen as a last effort to restore Starmer’s authority amid expected poor election results and rising internal party tensions.
Reeves Future Uncertain
Labour insiders say Starmer is weighing the option of sacking Rachel Reeves as Chancellor, a significant shake-up given their previously close political relationship. The reshuffle is described by aides as “one final roll of the dice” to reassert control within the party before leadership challenges arise.
Yvette Cooper Poised For Promotion
Plans reportedly include promoting Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper to Chancellor, a shift that would reshape the top ranks of Labour’s Cabinet. However, this proposal faces resistance, particularly from the soft-left faction favouring Ed Miliband, raising concerns over deepening party divisions at a critical time.
Party Divisions Deepen
Labour sources confirm tensions bubbling within the parliamentary party, with some MPs sceptical about the effectiveness of reshuffles. One Westminster insider warned, “Reshuffles always create more enemies than friends,” suggesting Starmer’s strategy may fuel further unrest instead of calming it.
Starmers Waning Authority
Amid the ongoing fallout from the Peter Mandelson affair and the erosion of support among Cabinet and MPs, some voices within Labour claim Starmer has lost the mandate to overhaul his senior team. One senior source bleakly described the situation as “the last gasp of a dying man,” highlighting the growing precariousness of his leadership.
