London, 21 July (H.S.): New British Prime Minister Andy Burnham has appointed former Health Secretary Wes Streeting as the country's new Defence Secretary as part of his first major cabinet reshuffle, the government announced on Monday.

The appointment came as Burnham's ministerial team formation continued late into the night following his assumption of office. Streeting, who previously served as Health Secretary, will now take charge of Britain's defence portfolio at a time when national security and military preparedness remain key priorities for the government.

Streeting resigned from his health ministerial position in May, citing a loss of confidence in then-Prime Minister Keir Starmer's leadership. He had earlier been considering a challenge for the leadership of the ruling Labour Party but later withdrew from the contest and backed Burnham.

The appointment marks a significant shift in Streeting's political role as he moves from domestic healthcare policy to overseeing defence matters. His inclusion in Burnham's cabinet highlights the new Prime Minister's efforts to bring experienced Labour figures into key government positions.

Burnham became Britain's seventh Prime Minister in a decade after taking charge of the government and has promised to reshape the country's political approach while focusing on economic recovery, public services, and national stability.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar