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2026-07-17 22:16:20
[Burnham Plans to Expand Business Department, Reynolds Likely to Return as Business Secretary] Sources indicate that Andy Burnham is drafting plans to expand the Business Department and reinstate Jonathan Reynolds as Business Secretary. In his inaugural speech announcing his appointment as the new leader of the Labour Party on Friday, Burnham stated his intention to pursue a pro-business policy. He said the cabinet list was not yet finalized, but party colleagues indicated the core leadership framework was largely in place. Following the 2024 general election, Reynolds served as Business Secretary in Sir Keir Starmer's cabinet until a cabinet reshuffle last September, when he was reassigned to the position of Chief Whip. Several Labour Party members and business representatives suggest Reynolds is highly likely to be reinstated; he enjoyed considerable support from union leaders and some business executives during his tenure as Business Secretary. Reynolds has admitted to several individuals that he is not suited to the position of Chief Whip. If he returns to Business Secretary, he may be given more authority related to energy and technology policy.
