Prime Minister Andy Burnham announced Cabinet appointments following his taking office, including the naming of Lucy Powell as education secretary and Jonathan Reynolds as secretary of state for business, innovation, science and trade.
Powell, who has served as deputy leader of the Labour Party since 2025, will lead the Department for Education, which manages primary, secondary, and higher education. The appointment comes as the government confirmed it would merge the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology with the Department of Business and Trade, eliminating the stand-alone science department. This restructuring drew mixed reactions from the academic sector. Patrick Vallance and Liz Kendall departed their respective science-related roles as part of the reorganization.
Libby Hackett, chief executive of the Russell Group, expressed support for the merger, stating it would position the country’s research and innovation capabilities within a broader strategic framework alongside business and industry initiatives. Powell’s background includes working with Manchester-based universities during her tenure as a Member of Parliament in the city since 2012, giving her experience with higher education issues.
As education secretary, Powell faces significant challenges including addressing financial difficulties affecting U.K. universities and rising youth unemployment. Prime Minister Burnham has previously indicated plans to reform the education system and reduce universities’ dominance while promoting alternative educational pathways for young people. Bridget Phillipson, who previously held the education secretary position under Keir Starmer starting in July 2024, transitioned to a new role as minister for women and equalities within the Cabinet.
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