Why John Healey’s choices as chancellor will make or break Burnham

2026-07-21

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Everybody needs good neighbours. And on the day Andy Burnham moved into 10 Downing Street, he installed a surprise choice next door at Number 11. John Healey was highly critical of the Treasury when he quit as defence secretary last month, accusing it of being “unwilling” to provide the cash needed to fully fund his spending plans. Now he’s the one who will have to put his money where his mouth is as the new chancellor. So, what challenges does he face and will he be able to find the cash Rache...

Everybody needs good neighbours. And on the day Andy Burnham moved into 10 Downing Street, he installed a surprise choice next door at Number 11.

John Healey was highly critical of the Treasury when he quit as defence secretary last month, accusing it of being “unwilling” to provide the cash needed to fully fund his spending plans.

Now he’s the one who will have to put his money where his mouth is as the new chancellor. So, what challenges does he face and will he be able to find the cash Rachel Reeves supposedly couldn’t?

Niall Paterson is joined by Sky’s business correspondent Paul Kelso.

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