Their departures left three vacancies in cabinet for the new premier to fill. But Mr Carroll determined he would fill just one of the positions.All three vacancies were in the Socialist Left, which had been left in tatters after last week's events. Ms Allan's position had been guaranteed to Tim Richardson, whose elevation today was a deal brokered to resolve the leadership dispute on Tuesday. The number of ministries is up to the premier of the day. One MP said Mr Carroll was pitching this as an austerity decision Another said with the election nearing, Mr Carroll did not want to be loaded up with novices in cabinet and that there are few remaining cabinet meetings before the November 28 election anyway. At least seven MPs, all from the Socialist Left, had been jostling for the remaining two cabinet positions