Lucy Powell MP’s Cabinet Exit: Major Shift in Labour Government Leadership

Breaking Changes in Labour Government Leadership

Lucy Powell MP has been dismissed from her position as Leader of the House of Commons as part of a cabinet reshuffle on September 5, 2025, following the resignation of Angela Rayner.

Recent Political Journey

Powell had been serving as the Leader of the House of Commons and Lord President of the Council since Labour’s victory in July 2024, when she was appointed by Prime Minister Keir Starmer. She has been representing Manchester Central as a Labour (Co-op) MP continuously since November 2012.

Background to the Reshuffle

The cabinet changes were precipitated by Deputy Prime Minister Angela Rayner’s resignation following an investigation into her tax affairs, specifically regarding underpayment of stamp duty on a second home, amounting to £40,000 less than required on an £800,000 apartment. Powell’s dismissal is reportedly linked to her public defence of Rayner during this controversy.

Powell’s Response and Legacy

In a statement shared on social media, Powell acknowledged her departure, describing it as an “honour” to serve in the first Labour government in 15 years. She highlighted her role in overseeing “the first Labour King’s Speech in a generation with such an ambitious and transformative legislative programme”.

Political Background

Born in Manchester in 1974, Powell studied Chemistry at Oxford University’s Somerville College. Her political career included working for the pro-EU pressure group Britain in Europe and maintaining close ties with former Labour leader Ed Miliband, serving as his chief of staff from 2010 to 2012 before entering Westminster.