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Cabinet reshuffle: Michael Gove

Michael Gove has been confirmed as Robert Jenrick's replacement at MHCLG and will oversee housing and planning policy.

As one of the most recognisable politicians in the country, Gove requires little introduction. However, whether you know him for his lead role in the Brexit campaign or as Secretary of State for Education, Justice or the Environment (or most recently Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster), he is an experienced and trusted* member of the Government. He was even a Shadow Housing Minister in Cameron's first Shadow Cabinet.

It is too early to know what this appointment means for housing or planning reform, but the MHCLG now has an experienced and savvy political operator who can handle the heat when opposed, which is rare. In homage to Gove's time as Education Secretary, we've used three R's to consider what might have been Johnson’s thinking for a Gove appointment:

Rebrand

Was Jenrick removed for a clean break, so the Government could rebrand and repackage previous policy proposals with a Minister of experience and stature who can take the pressure? It might also help that Gove's Surrey Heath constituency is in the heartland of where the opposition resides.

Refresh

Does the appointment of an experienced reformer show that the Tory Government are taking planning seriously? Traditionally MHCLG has been used and viewed as an occupational stepping stone for young, up and coming politicians. Will Gove start afresh and examine what the planning system really needs? It is worth noting that Gove has never been afraid of being unpopular.

Restore

Is this just an attempt to stop the rot? We know the Tories see the loss of the Chesham and Amersham byelection as a byproduct of toxic planning, and the polls aren't looking great. The past two Prime Ministers have turned to Gove when things aren't going well (see Brexit, COVID, etc); are the Tories seeing that the politics of planning is a problem bigger than their sizable majority and steadying the ship?

At this stage, all of this is speculation. However, the department now has a key political figure at the helm, so we can at least ascertain that the Government has identified that what comes next in MHCLG is important and needs to be handled appropriately.

That or they're sticking the new Secretary of State in a typically unpopular position amongst Tory members to damage his chances in a future leadership contest and to keep him out the way of good news...

*By those in it, not by all.

For more information please contact Nick Jones.

16 September 2021