GORDON BROWN’S plans for a cabinet reshuffle were in disarray yesterday as it emerged that a string of ministers could resign if they were moved.

Downing Street sources say that Brown is likely to put off a reshuffle again amid fears that attempts to switch key figures could backfire dramatically.

His allies argue that it would be inappropriate to focus on the make-up of the cabinet at a time of economic crisis. But insiders say attempts to change the frontbench team have become even more fraught since the Labour party conference, leaving the prime minister desperate to buy time.

Among the figures who have made it known through friends that they do not want to change posts are Alistair Darling, the chancellor, David Mili-band, the foreign secretary, and Alan Johnson, the health secretary. James Purnell, the work and pensions secretary, is said to have been stung by a whispering campaign that he could be demoted and has told allies that he would quit rather than accept a less powerful role.

Since the conference, it has also become clear that Brown risks a backlash if he demotes or sacks Hazel Blears, the communities secretary, who gave a stellar performance in Man-chester and is emerging as one of the most popular figures with rank-and-file members.

A source close to the prime minister said: “I would not bet on it [a reshuffle] happening in the next week. We’re focused on the financial crisis.”

Brown must act soon because of the resignation of Ruth Kelly, the transport secretary. She has said she will stay on until a reshuffle but she will now be seen as a lame duck.

Brown is under pressure to clip the wings of Harriet Har-man, the deputy leader, who has alienated a number of senior colleagues. She is said to have infuriated Jacqui Smith, the home secretary, by “stealing” a policy announcement on changes to prostitution laws. The incident is said to have triggered a bitter argument between the two women.

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