Prime Minister Andy Burnham has appointed Angela Rayner as Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government in his first cabinet.

The move marks a return to MHCLG for Rayner, who previously served in the role from July 2024 to September 2025 before resigning following the fallout over the underpayment of stamp duty on an £800,000 property she bought in May 2025. Her tax bill has since been settled with HM Revenue and Customs.

Responding to her appointment, Angela Rayner, said: “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 the people’s hands – and hope back in our hearts.”

While there is no place for outgoing Housing Secretary Steve Reed in the new cabinet, Matthew Pennycook will continue in the role of Housing Minister.

Commenting on his reappointment, Pennycook said: “”Delighted to remain in post as Housing and Planning Minister and to have been asked by Andy Burnham to attend cabinet in that role.

“We’ve made huge strides towards a future where everyone has a secure, decent and affordable home. Time to step up and see the job through.”