Andy Burnham has unveiled his ministerial team. So, we assess what his appointments reveal about the Government’s priorities, the political calculations behind them, and the parliamentary tests that lie ahead.

We begin with the appointment of the new Chief Whip, Anneliese Midgley MP, who takes on one of Westminster’s toughest jobs despite having just two years’ parliamentary experience and no experience on the front bench.

We also consider the return of familiar faces to Cabinet, the promotion of newer MPs, the creation of a Cabinet-level role for artificial intelligence, and the implications of the reshuffle for select committees, the House of Lords and the Opposition front benches.

Andy Burnham has also reorganised the machinery of government. Professor Jon Davis, Professor of Government at King’s College London, joins us to explain why changes to Whitehall departments matter, how they shape decision-making at the heart of government, and why reorganising government can have consequences that last long after individual ministers have moved on.

With Parliament now in summer recess, Ruth and Mark also recommend a selection of political books to keep you entertained over the holidays – whether you’re heading for the beach, relaxing in the garden or simply taking shelter from the latest heatwave.

Although Parliament is taking a break, Parliament Matters isn't. Keep an eye on your podcast feed throughout August for several special episodes. Unless Parliament is recalled or major political developments demand an emergency edition, we'll return with our regular weekly analysis when Parliament reconvenes in September.

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Parliament Matters is a Hansard Society production supported by the Joseph Rowntree Charitable Trust.

Presenters: Mark D’Arcy and Ruth Fox

Producer: Richard Townsend

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