Shaw-Lefevre’s ministerial career lasted for over 30 years and included two spells as First Commissioner of Works, Postmaster General and President of the Local Government Board. After leaving parliament, he served as a Progressive on the London County Council. A keen supporter of public open space, Shaw-Lefevre was a co-founder of the Commons Preservation Society (now the Open Spaces Society) and as First Commissioner opened Hampton Court Park, Kew Gardens and Regent’s Park to the public.