With reference to the sources, what is a government reshuffle? - Edexcel - A-Level Politics - Question 2 - 2014 - Paper 2

A government reshuffle occurs when the Prime Minister changes the personnel of the government by moving existing members to different positions or removing them altogether. This process serves several functions:

• Replace Personnel: Ministers may leave their political office for various reasons, and their positions are subsequently filled by others.

• Remove Personnel: Some ministers may be dismissed by the Prime Minister as part of a reshuffle, thus either leaving the government or shifting to different roles.

• Re-route Talent: A reshuffle allows for new talent to be introduced into the government, essentially bringing in 'new blood' to rejuvenate the cabinet's effectiveness.

• Promotional Aspects: The reshuffle can include favorable promotions or demotions within the government structure, reflecting the Prime Minister's preferences.

• Impact on Policy Making: Furthermore, reshuffles can have significant implications for policy-making processes due to the change in personnel and their respective approaches.