In New Zealand the executive branch of government, led by cabinet, has always been strong. In turn, cabinet is influenced by strong individual members. Roger Douglas (right, pictured with Richard Prebble) was minister of finance from 1984 to 1988. He was the architect of major economic reforms and gathered around him a loyal group of other cabinet members, including Prebble, who supported him during a sustained period of conflict with Prime Minister David Lange. Though Lange eventually sacked Douglas as minister of finance, Douglas's tenure exemplifies the ability of individual cabinet members to accrue significant power.