UK PM Keir Starmer's New Cabinet: Rachel Reeves Becomes First Female Chancellor Of Exchequer

Rachel Reeves, the Labour Party leader, has made history by becoming the first woman appointed Chancellor of the Exchequer. Sir Keir Starmer, the UK's new Prime Minister, selected her for this prestigious role. This appointment follows the recent general election in Britain.

"It is the honour of my life to have been appointed Chancellor of the Exchequer. Economic growth was the Labour Party's mission. It is now a national mission. Let's get to work," Reeves posted on X (formerly Twitter).

Rachel Reeves' Background

Born on February 13, 1979, in southwest London, Rachel Reeves has had a distinguished career. She became Labour's finance policy chief in 2021 and served as Shadow Chancellor of the Exchequer under Keir Starmer when he was Leader of the Opposition.

Reeves joined Labour at 16 and first became a Member of Parliament (MP) in 2010 for Leeds West. She retained her seat in subsequent elections in 2015, 2017, and 2019. In the recent July 4 general election, she became MP for the newly created Leeds West and Pudsey constituency.

Professional Achievements

A former chess champion and ex-Bank of England economist, Reeves also worked at the British embassy in Washington and Halifax/Bank of Scotland (HBOS). Her academic background includes studies at New College, Oxford, and the London School of Economics (LSE).

Her sister Ellie Reeves is also a member of the Labour Party. "It is an honour and privilege to be returned as the MP for Leeds West and Pudsey. You have put your trust in me. And I will not let you down," Rachel Reeves wrote on X.

New Role and Responsibilities

Reeves succeeds Jeremy Hunt from the Conservative Party as Chancellor of the Exchequer. Her appointment marks a significant milestone in British politics as she takes on this crucial role during a pivotal time for economic policy.

The new Chancellor left 11 Downing Street on July 5, 2024, following her appointment amid cabinet reshuffles after Britain's general election.