In 1995-1998 he served as minister of work in the office of Prime Minister Gyula Horn. From 2002 to 2003 he served as minister of employment and work in the government of Prime Minister Péter Medgyessy. In 2003-2006 he was chief minister in the cabinet of Prime Minister's Office Prime Minister Ferenc Gyurcsány, and then from June 2006 to July 2007 the Minister of Labour and Social Affairs. From July 2007 to April 2009 again held the position of chief minister of the Prime Minister. From 20 April 2009 to May 29, 2010 was a minister without portfolio in the cabinet of Prime Minister Gordon Bajnai.