The new ministry saw two main changes from its predecessor: Ray Hanrahan replaced Barry Coulter as Deputy Chief Minister, although Coulter stayed on as Treasurer, and former Deputy Chief Minister Nick Dondas was dropped from the ministry.
The portfolio of local government, previously held by Barry Coulter was abolished on 27 November 1987, during the term of this ministry.
The fifth ministry was sworn in on 6 April 1988 after the resignation of Ray Hanrahan as Deputy Chief Minister and his succession by Barry Coulter.
The ministry operated until 13 July of that year, when Stephen Hatton resigned as Chief Minister and was replaced by Marshall Perron.
Ray Hanrahan continued as Leader of Government Business until 16 May 1988, despite having resigned from his Cabinet positions on 5 April.