 Reid was re-elected to the Assembly in 1891 and assumed leadership of the Free Trade Party following the retirement of Henry Parkes.The ministry covers the period from 3 August 1894 until 13 September 1899, when Reid resigned in order to focus on ensuring adequate provisions were made for New South Wales in the federation of the Australian colonies into a Commonwealth.The composition of the ministry was announced by Premier Reid of 3 August 1894 and covers the period up to 15 August 1898, unless the Minister retains the portfolio for the full term.