Transtasman Political Letter – 13 October Digest

Trans Tasman - 13th October 2005

The intensity of coalition politics gripped Wellington this week
... Clark is tantalisingly close to a third term
… Peters relishes the chance to dance in the limelight again
… Will Tariana Turia be splitting another Party in the near future?
…Meanwhile Civil Servants shiver in fear at the prospect of another three years of the ‘blame game’
… The only light on the horizon – a possible WTO farm trade agreement.

Peters The King Maker After All?

Winston Peters emerged as the key player in talks to form a Govt this week, with Helen Clark confirming she is seeking his party’s support on confidence and supply votes. The NZ First leader has previously said his party, which has seven votes, would abstain to protect the Govt and vote with it if necessary, but Clark wants more.

But Will The Government Get Any Work Done?

A “do nothing” Parliament providing MPs with lengthy recesses is the likely outcome of a third term Clark-led minority Govt. Fresh legislation of significance will require detailed discussion with minor parties prior to introduction into the House.

Clark Faces Torrid Time In New Term

The course chosen by Helen Clark should give her what she most prized. A chance to claim a place in history as the first three term Labour PM. The country may pay a price for her satisfaction.

National Rebels Want McCully Shackled

While National was trying to upset Clark’s negotiations a damaging stoush brewed up in its own ranks. A report in the Independent has been confirmed – a solid group of National MPs want veteran tactician Murray McCully dumped as Parliamentary Assistant to leader Don Brash.

CAPITAL TALK

Talk about revolving doors. NZ’s ambassador to Indonesia, Chris Elder, is the latest senior diplomat to shift sideways into another embassy rather than returning home.

PLAY OF THE WEEK - Whoop Whoop

The NZ economy is entering what Fred Dagg once called a “whoop whoop pull up, pull up” phase. The latest economic news points to some tough decisions for Reserve Bank Governor Alan Bollard.

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