Bishop to replace Brown as Transport Minister

Chris Bishop is set to take over the key role of Transport Minister, with incumbent Simeon Brown required elsewhere.

Brown has made a significant impact in just over a year, dismantling the Clean Car Discount, relaxing targets under the Clean Car Standard, and announcing a number of new roading projects.

He has not been stripped of the portfolio due to a lack of performance, with Prime Minister Christopher Luxon stating he was an “outstanding and diligent” minister who had done an excellent job.

Instead, Brown will replace the underperforming Dr Shane Reti in the Health portfolio.

“Off the back of that performance, I have decided his skills are best placed to take leadership of our health system going forward.”

Bishop is no stranger to transport, having held the shadow portfolio when National was in opposition. He has also held portfolios in the associated infrastructure and resource management areas.

He will be the 30th holder of the portfolio.