In a parliamentary system, what is the title of the individual in charge of a government department?

In a parliamentary system, the title of the individual in charge of a government department is "Minister." This role is integral to the functioning of government, as ministers are responsible for overseeing specific areas of public policy, government function, and public administration. Each minister typically heads a ministry, such as the Ministry of Health or the Ministry of Education, where they implement government policies, manage resources, and represent their department in the parliament.

The term "Minister" conveys the authority and responsibility that these individuals hold within the cabinet, highlighting their role in decision-making and governance. This is often linked to the principle of collective responsibility, where ministers work together to ensure government policies are presented and executed cohesively.

Other terms such as "Secretary," "Advisor," and "Director" do exist in government contexts, but they do not carry the same level of authority and accountability associated with the leadership of government departments as "Minister" does. For instance, while a Secretary might fulfill certain administrative roles or assist ministers, they do not have the same legislative power or responsibility for a ministry's overall direction and outcomes.