Andy Burnham has unveiled his first cabinet as prime minister, but Independent readers have reacted with widespread scepticism, arguing the reshuffle simply reshuffles familiar Labour faces rather than delivering genuine change. Many commenters noted that most of the top team, including John Healey, Ed Miliband and Shabana Mahmood, previously served under Sir Keir Starmer, with some describing the changes as spoils handed out following a Labour "coup" rather than a fresh start.

Key moves include John Healey becoming chancellor, Ed Miliband being promoted to foreign secretary, and Shabana Mahmood remaining as home secretary, while Rachel Reeves departs and David Lammy also leaves the top team. Readers questioned the suitability of several appointments, with Yvette Cooper's move to health and Wes Streeting's shift to defence criticised for a lack of relevant experience, and Miliband's diplomatic and security credentials for the Foreign Office also queried. Some commenters expressed sympathy for Reeves's record as chancellor, while others suggested keeping Mahmood on could be a tactical move to counter Reform UK on immigration.