Angela Rayner returns as Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government

She returns to the department as part of a round of new cabinet appointments by the incoming Prime Minister Andy Burnham.

Both Matthew Pennycook and Alison McGovern will stay in the department in their respective positions as Housing and Planning Minister and Local Government and Homelessness Minister.

Rayner said she was delighted to take on the new role, adding: "Andy Burnham's vision of good growth in every postcode demands we build on the foundations we have already laid to bring the change we have promised.

"I look forward to returning to government with renewed drive and determination to put power back in people’s hands - and hope back in our hearts."

Rayner was Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government and Deputy Prime Minister between July 2024 and September 2025, but was forced to step down amid allegations she had failed to pay enough tax on a flat she owned.

HM Revenue and Customs cleared her of any wrongdoing in May this year.

Her appointment marks the seventh time the role has changed hands in just five years.

Pennycook, who has been in his role since July 2024, has meanwhile been asked to attend cabinet.

Commenting online, he said: "We’ve made huge strides towards a future where everyone has a secure, decent and affordable home. Time to step things up and see the job through."

The new cabinet includes Yvette Cooper, who has been appointed as Secretary of State for Health and Social Care, and Lucy Powell, who will be Secretary of State for Education. Shabana Mahmood will remain as Home Secretary.

Alex Norris has been appointed as Lord Chancellor and Secretary of State for Justice, while Angela Eagle has been selected as Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (DEFRA).

Miatta Fahnbulleh - who previously resigned as Devolution Minister at MHCLG in protest at Starmer's leadership - has meanwhile been appointed as Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero.

In his outgoing statement, Steve Reed said he was "disappointed to be leaving government now", but wished the new administration "every success".

Adam Carey