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Major Cabinet Reshuffle Following Rayner Resignation
Foreign Secretary David Lammy has been appointed as the United Kingdom's new Deputy Prime Minister, replacing Angela Rayner who resigned on Friday amid a tax scandal. The appointment marks a significant shift in Prime Minister Keir Starmer's government as it faces mounting political pressure.
Rayner's Downfall Over Stamp Duty Controversy
Angela Rayner stepped down after admitting she underpaid stamp duty on a seaside flat in southern England. The ethics chief Laurie Magnus concluded that Rayner "cannot be considered to have met the highest possible standards of proper conduct" despite recognizing the complexity of the tax rules involved. Rayner had twice received advice suggesting the lower stamp duty rate was applicable, but this guidance was qualified as not constituting expert tax advice.
Political Turmoil for Labour Government
Rayner's departure represents a major blow to Starmer's administration, which has been struggling with economic challenges and anti-immigration protests. As a prominent left-wing figure and potential successor to Starmer, her resignation has created internal turmoil within the Labour Party. The party now trails Nigel Farage's right-wing Reform UK party in national polls, reflecting growing voter disenchantment with mainstream politics.
Broader Cabinet Reshuffle
The reshuffle saw several other key changes: Yvette Cooper moved from Home Secretary to replace Lammy as Foreign Secretary, while Shabana Mahmood took over as Home Secretary. Lammy will additionally serve as Justice Secretary alongside his deputy prime minister role. House of Commons leader Lucy Powell and Scotland secretary Ian Murray also left government positions.
According to Wikipedia, Lammy becomes the first black Briton to hold the deputy prime minister position, bringing extensive experience from his previous roles as Foreign Secretary and Shadow Justice Secretary.
