The Member for Finniss Michael Pengilly has lost his seat in the State Shadow Cabinet after the promotion of the Opposition spokesman on the River Murray and Sustainability and Climate Change, Adrian Pederick.

Communications manager Kevin Naughton said the recent Cabinet shuffle had been designed to put more focus on the water issue.

“Mitch Williams added Environment to his list of portfolios. Adrian Pederick with his portfolios really had to be in the Cabinet, at the expense of Michael.

“It’s a major strategic change and nothing to do with Michael or his performance. He remains a Parliamentary Secretary and a strong contributor,” Mr Naughton said.

Mr Pengilly confirmed he remained as a Parliamentary Secretary to the Leader of the Opposition Martin Hamilton-Smith and maintained his shadow portfolios of Southern Suburbs and Veterans Affairs.

His Tourism portfolio went to David Pisoni and his Local Government position went to Steven Wade in the Upper House to match the Minister for Local Government Gail Gago.

“There is no extra money at any shadow level and no extra staff so in opposition the most efficient use of limited staff is critical. I will just continue on as usual and do my bit as normal,” Mr Pengilly said.