Scottish Labour leader Anas Sarwar is set to resign from his role as leader of the Scottish Labour Party to take up a ministerial position in Andy Burnham's Labour government. This move would see Sarwar leave the Scottish Parliament and transition to the House of Lords, marking a significant shift in his political career. Sarwar, who has led the Scottish Labour Party since 2021, is expected to become a business minister. His decision comes after a contentious period, including his public call for Sir Keir Starmer to resign in February 2026, which sparked internal turmoil within the Labour Party. Despite his previous focus on Scotland, Sarwar's appointment as a Westminster minister has raised questions about his commitment to the region. Scottish Labour's electoral performance in May 2026, securing only 17 seats out of 129, has further complicated his leadership role. The move is seen as a strategic shift by Burnham to strengthen his government, though critics argue it undermines Scottish Labour's autonomy. Political figures have expressed mixed reactions, with some praising the move as a pragmatic step and others criticizing it as a betrayal of local interests. The transition highlights the complex dynamics within the Labour Party and the broader implications for Scottish politics.

London Mayor Sir Sadiq Khan has been appointed as one of 26 new peers entering the House of Lords, marking one of Sir Keir Starmer's final acts as prime minister. The nominations, announced ahead of Starmer's resignation, include prominent Labour figures such as broadcaster June Sarpong and former union leader Christina McAnea, alongside Liberal Democrats, Conservatives, and cross-bench members. Khan, who is not seeking a government role in Andy Burnham's incoming administration, will join the Lords amid debates over reforming the unelected chamber. The appointments have drawn criticism from Reform UK leader Nigel Farage, who accused Labour of creating an unrepresentative upper house. Liberal Democrat leader Sir Ed Davey welcomed the additions, emphasizing their potential to hold the government accountable. Meanwhile, Labour's plans to abolish the House of Lords and replace it with a reformed upper chamber remain under consideration. The move has sparked discussions about the need for greater democratic accountability in the legislative process.

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