6. Digby Jones, BERR

Digby, Lord Jones of Birmingham, took on a new challenge this year, as he joined Gordon Brown's team in the unlikely role of Trade Minister in a Labour Government.

He was one of a number of people from outside politics elevated to the House of Lords and given a ministerial job, as part of Mr Brown's "Government of all the talents".

The fact that the appointees quickly became known as GOATS among some civil servants and Labour MPs illustrates some of the challenges he faced.

There was some resentment on the part of people who had worked hard for the party all their lives that outsiders were being bought in and offered plum Government positions but, in Lord Jones' case, there was also outright hostility.

In his former role as Director General of the CBI, the former Birmingham lawyer had often clashed with the unions.

Many union leaders were furious that he was now part of a Labour Government. Some MPs felt the same way, particularly as Lord Jones refused to confirm which party he supports.

They demanded that he pledge fealty to the Labour Party - perhaps motivated by a belief that he was, secretly, a Tory.

In fact, quizzed by about his political leanings by the Commons Business and Enterprise Committee, Lord Jones would only say that people might be surprised.

Whatever his private views may be, it is almost unheard of for a Government Minister to refuse actively to support the governing party. Lord Jones appears to have been surprised by some of the criticism he received, but perhaps he should have been more prepared for it.

It is hard, however, to think of anyone more suited for the role he currently plays. As a Minister, he has assumed responsibility for UK Trade and Investment, the body responsible for promoting Britain to the business world across the globe.

His work has included creating better economic links with China, and he will represent the Department of Business and Enterprise at the Beijing Olympics.

Lord Jones also appears to have a genuinely close relationship with Gordon Brown, who praised his work during a Commons committee hearing recently.

It is unclear what the future holds for him. Conservative leader David Cameron has hinted a Conservative Government might keep him on - perhaps in an effort partly to provoke Labour MPs - but Lord Jones is expected to return to the private sector once the next General Election is called.