- Louise Haigh , a key figure in Andy Burnham ’s plans to return to Westminster, is set to drive his government’s agenda across Whitehall after being appointed Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster, and First Secretary of State.
- She was dubbed one of the "northern power women" who masterminded Burnham’s successful Makerfield by-election campaign, paving his path to Downing Street.
- Ms Haigh previously criticised what she described as a boys’ club culture at the heart of Sir Keir’s No 10 operation.
- It came after she was forced to resign as transport secretary over a historic criminal offence related to incorrectly telling police that a work mobile phone was stolen in 2013.
- She is now expected to champion Mr Burnham’s key priorities, including the devolution agenda and plans to tackle the cost-of-living crisis.
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