Luxon announces reshuffle
Prime Minister Christopher Luxon has shuffled the government’s ministerial lineup seven months before the general election in November.
He says the changes to responsibilities for a number of MPs will come into effect on April 7 and are designed to continue fixing the basics and protecting New Zealand’s future.
Simeon Brown is taking on the energy portfolio, Chris Bishop becomes Attorney-General and Penny Simmonds joins Cabinet with responsibility for tertiary education and science, innovation and technology.
Other moves include Nicola Grigg being appointed Minister for the Environment, Louise Upston becoming Leader of the House and Simon Watts is the new Minister for Auckland.
Cameron Brewer, as a minister outside cabinet, will be responsible for commerce and consumer affairs, and small business and manufacturing, as well as becoming Associate Minister of Immigration.
Luxon, pictured, announced his new ministerial team on April 2 and says New Zealanders are facing economic challenges brought on by conflict in the Middle East and its effect on global fuel supplies.
“Having a strong ministerial team with real-world experience to deliver our response is crucial. Today’s reshuffle reflects that and brings in new talent,” he adds.
“Having successfully delivered significant reforms from outside cabinet, Chris Penk will now join cabinet, picking up the defence, GCSB and NZSIS, and space portfolios.
“Chris’ time in the NZDF leaves him well placed to lead the work our government has done in raising the status and capability of our armed forces.”
“The past few weeks have underlined how important energy security is and as such I will be elevating the energy portfolio to senior minister Simeon Brown.
“Chris Bishop becomes Attorney-General and Paul Goldsmith takes responsibility for the public service and digitising government, and Pacific peoples portfolios.”
The Prime Minister has also acknowledged the public service of Judith Collins and Shane Reti who, between them, have spent almost 40 years representing their communities in Parliament.
“Judith was first elected in 2002 and since then, has held numerous different ministerial portfolios and served as leader of the Opposition,” notes Luxon.
“This term, she has delivered the Defence Capability Plan, advanced New Zealand’s space industry and modernised of our public service.
“In Shane’s 12 years in Parliament, he has served as deputy leader of the Opposition and has delivered key reforms as a minister, including improving the commerciality of our science sector to boost incomes and create jobs.
“New Zealand is better for Judith and Shane deciding to enter public service … on behalf of the Government and the National Party, I wish them all the best for their futures outside Parliament.”
To see the full ministerial list, click here.
