 Parker became First Naval Lord in the First Derby ministry in February 1852 but continued in office when the Aberdeen ministry came to power in December 1852 having impressed the incoming Government with his non-political style of leadership.As First Naval Lord, Parker he ensured that all new warships being procured were propelled by steam and he also increased the size of the active fleet.Promoted to vice-admiral on 4 June 1852, he died while still in office at his home in Ham in Surrey on 25 May 1854.