Angela Rayner becomes deputy PM

Shadow foreign secretary set to take on new role

Labour deputy leader Angela Rayner has been named deputy prime minister as Sir Keir Starmer assembles his cabinet.

Ms Rayner, 43, was the only Muslim in the Shadow Cabinet and played a key role in liaising between MPs and Mr Starmer's office over Gaza.

In the run up to the election, Sir Keir Starmer remained tight-lipped about who would be part of his cabinet, but did confirm that Ms Rayner would be part of his top team.

Ms Rayner's appointment is seen as a sign that Sir Keir is determined to create a diverse and inclusive government.

She is the second woman to hold the post of deputy prime minister, after Harriet Harman served under Gordon Brown.

The appointment of Ms Rayner comes as Sir Keir Starmer prepares to unveil his full cabinet. It is expected that he will announce a number of other senior appointments, including the chancellor and foreign secretary.