This minimalist manoeuvre, carried out in graveyard news time, suggests that a bigger reshuffle has been postponed until the other side of the year.
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“You have to look at who’s doing the talking up,” says the Foreign Secretary, when asked about rumours regarding a possible Cabinet reshuffle.
We fear the worst after Cummings’ departure, but Johnson must now make the best of it. That means a Cabinet shuffle.
Plus: There is speculation of a Cabinet reshuffle soon, but I hear otherwise…
And Dorries moves up a rank at the Department of Health to become a Minister of State.
The Health Secretary’s defence of his department’s pro-lockdown stance has made him a target for those who want it eased.
Crosbie goes to the Health Department. Lewer to the Home Office. Allan to the Leader of the House of Commons.
“Conservatives particularly believe that no particular person, or even a government, has a monopoly on the best ideas”, the former Chancellor tells the House.
“Javid has already seen one SpAd fired. The Prime Minister may push to dismiss at least two more…which he would resist. This one may not end well.”
The Prime Minister has also chosen not to tinker with the whips, in contrast to the habit of both his predecessors.
But is a system of government whereby all power is concentrated in Downing Street likely to result in that power being well used?
Having “got Brexit done”, this is the team the Prime Minister wants beside him to push forward his domestic agenda.