Sacks, cabinet surprises and policies: Andy Burnham’s first 24 hours as PM

John Healey’s ascension to the second most important job in government has delighted senior officials at the Ministry of Defence, who are relieved to have someone in the Treasury committed to increasing military spending.

“It’s fantastic for us,” said an insider.

However, the same MOD source is also relieved that Healey will not be returning.

They said we were afraid he would come back. “He is a difficult man.”

Even some senior conservatives think Haley’s appointment as chancellor is smart. “For a number of reasons,” explains one former Tory cabinet minister.

“He’s not Ed Miliband, he’s hard to attack, and he’s a Treasury scholar.” Healy served as a minister in the department for five years during Tony Blair’s premiership.

Burnham’s partner Anneliese Midgeley has the tough task of trying to convince Labor MPs – including those sacked as ministers – to remain loyal to the government.

Former Chief Secretary to Prime Minister Darren Jones Public swipe at Andy Burnham’s energy bills policy It’s a sign that not everyone is playing well.

One Labor MP said those sacked by Burnham could be divided into three groups.

“Some left because of their politics, others were not good, and then there are those who don’t like them in the Labor Party in Parliament,” said the MP.

Behind the scenes, many in Westminster are talking about Andy Burnham taking advantage of the potential breakdown in opinion polls to call a snap general election.

Nigel Farage wants one and argues that it is necessary because Burnham has no mandate.

But with the reform leader facing a by-election and questions over his finances, some in his own party worry that if Burnham moves too quickly, Farage may miss out on a great chance to become prime minister.

The reformist source laughed and said, “We are worried about the snap election.

“That’s why we’re calling a snap election.”