Eluned Morgan’s Cabinet Reshuffle: A New Era for Welsh Politics

In a significant move that marks her first reshuffle since taking office, First Minister Eluned Morgan has unveiled a new cabinet team aimed at addressing the pressing challenges facing Wales. This reshuffle comes at a crucial time, with the 2026 Senedd elections on the horizon and polling suggesting that Labour may struggle to maintain its status as the largest party in Wales.

A Return to the Front Benches

One of the most notable appointments in Morgan’s new cabinet is Jeremy Miles, who returns to the front benches as the Cabinet Secretary for Health and Social Care. Miles, who previously served in Vaughan Gething’s cabinet, resigned last summer, contributing to Gething’s brief tenure as First Minister. His return signals a renewed focus on health, a critical area for the Welsh government, especially in light of the ongoing challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic and the need for robust health services.

Key Appointments and Roles

Alongside Miles, Julie James has been appointed as Counsel General and Minister for Delivery. James, who also resigned from Gething’s cabinet, brings a wealth of experience to her new role, which will be pivotal in navigating the legal and operational challenges that the government faces.

Former First Minister Mark Drakeford, who has been acting as Health Minister, will now take on the roles of Cabinet Secretary for Finance and Welsh Language. This dual role underscores the importance of financial management in the current economic climate, as well as the Welsh government’s commitment to promoting the Welsh language and culture.

Vaughan Gething, who has been a prominent figure in Welsh politics, will remain on the back benches as the Member of the Senedd (MS) for Cardiff South and Penarth. Gething has announced his intention to step down from the Senedd in the 2026 elections, marking the end of an era for his political career.

A Cabinet for Modern Wales

Eluned Morgan emphasized that her cabinet appointments reflect the modern landscape of Wales and are designed to tackle the key challenges that the nation faces. "I have spent the summer listening to the people of Wales, and my new Cabinet appointments will now focus relentlessly on the priorities I heard from them," she stated. This approach aims to foster a government that is responsive to the needs and concerns of its citizens.

The full ministerial team includes:

• Huw Irranca-Davies MS – Deputy First Minister and Cabinet Secretary for Climate Change and Rural Affairs
• Jeremy Miles MS – Cabinet Secretary for Health and Social Care
• Mark Drakeford MS – Cabinet Secretary for Finance and Welsh Language
• Rebecca Evans MS – Cabinet Secretary for Economy, Energy and Planning
• Jayne Bryant MS – Cabinet Secretary for Housing and Local Government
• Lynne Neagle MS – Cabinet Secretary for Education
• Ken Skates MS – Cabinet Secretary for Transport and North Wales
• Jane Hutt MS – Cabinet Secretary for Social Justice, Trefnydd and Chief Whip
• Jack Sargeant MS – Minister for Culture, Skills and Social Partnership
• Vikki Howells MS – Minister for Further and Higher Education
• Sarah Murphy MS – Minister for Mental Health and Wellbeing
• Dawn Bowden MS – Minister for Children and Social Care
• Julie James MS – Counsel General Designate and Minister for Delivery

Challenges Ahead

The reshuffle comes at a time when the Labour government in Wales faces significant challenges. With the 2026 Senedd elections looming, the new cabinet will need to work diligently to address public concerns and improve the party’s standing in the polls. Andrew RT Davies, Leader of the Welsh Conservatives, has already criticized the reshuffle, claiming that despite the change in leadership, the Labour government remains unchanged and continues to fail in key areas that matter to the people of Wales.

Conclusion

Eluned Morgan’s cabinet reshuffle represents a strategic move to bring stability and experience to the Welsh government as it prepares for the challenges ahead. With a focus on health, finance, and social justice, the new cabinet is tasked with addressing the pressing issues facing Wales today. As the political landscape evolves, all eyes will be on Morgan and her team to see how they respond to the needs of the Welsh people and navigate the complexities of governance in the lead-up to the next elections.