Louise Haigh, the member of Parliament for Sheffield Heeley, has risen to become one of the most influential figures in contemporary British politics as first secretary of state. Appointed by Prime Minister Andy Burnham, she effectively serves as his deputy, a role underscored recently when she chaired cabinet meetings during Burnham’s absence following his father's death. In the official government hierarchy, Haigh ranks just below the prime minister and above senior cabinet members including the chancellor, foreign secretary, and home secretary.
At 39, Haigh is responsible for overseeing operations spanning Downing Street and No 10 North, frequently handling key policy decisions before they reach the prime minister. She describes her role not as gatekeeping but as providing critical advice on cabinet matters, reflecting a close working relationship with Burnham.
Haigh’s background is deeply rooted in the industrial character of South Yorkshire, a region shaped by its mining heritage and working-class communities. She often references this influence on her outlook, contrasting it with Burnham’s Liverpool roots to emphasize their complementary partnership. “I’m an eternal pessimist,” she says, crediting her Yorkshire upbringing with a cautious, grounded approach to politics, counterbalancing Burnham’s ambitious and emotive style.
Her appointment marks a notable shift in the composition of Burnham’s senior team. Haigh suggests it signals a break from the "boys’ club" reputation attributed to the previous leadership under Keir Starmer, highlighting Burnham’s emphasis on surrounding himself with strong women both in cabinet and senior staff roles. She contrasts this with the prior culture in Downing Street, which she says was marked by internal briefings often directed disparagingly at female colleagues rather than healthy political debate.
Haigh cites Barbara Castle, Labour’s only other woman to hold the post of first secretary, as a political role model known for her bravery and willingness to take risks. She underscores the urgency of radical policymaking given current fiscal constraints, signalling a readiness to engage with ambitious reforms.
Identifying as a socialist, Haigh emphasizes her commitment to addressing economic inequality and redistributing wealth—principles she associates with Labour’s broader agenda under Burnham. She acknowledges that past Labour administrations have already imposed significant taxation on wealth and stresses the importance of fostering economic growth. While open to the idea of taxation changes, she notes that specific decisions are ultimately tied to budgetary processes.
Haigh also reflects on recent Labour policy debates, particularly regarding disability benefits reforms. She recalls leading a successful revolt last year that compelled the party to reconsider welfare measures initially intended to deliver short-term savings. She believes most Labour MPs would now support reasonable changes to disability benefits if handled sensitively and transparently, contrasting this with what she sees as mismanagement in prior attempts.
Off duty, Haigh is known for her energetic personality, illustrated by her enthusiastic dog Milo, who featured in Burnham’s electoral campaign. Despite her serious responsibilities, she admits to a playful streak, recalling a Commons reprimand for performing “keepy-uppies” with colleagues on the women’s parliamentary football team.
Overall, Haigh’s rise reflects both her personal political convictions and the evolving culture within Labour’s leadership, as the party seeks to present a more inclusive and assertive front in government.