[4][5] Once in power, he reversed many of Han's policies, making peace with the Jin and revoking proscriptions against the Neo-Confucianism of Zhu Xi,[6] although he still did not allow adherents of Zhu Xi's theories any great political power.

He generally promoted officials on merit and was able to restore a degree of stability to government.

[8] Shi moved to place Zhao Yun (a minor imperial prince) on the throne ahead of the heir apparent.

In changing the order of succession, he had the unwilling support of Empress Yang, who was initially against the plot but was forced to assist after Shi threatened to exterminate her clan.

She forged an edict appointing Zhao Yun as heir, and he was crowned as the Emperor Lizong.