Prime Minister Helen Clark today congratulated Tony Blair and the British Labour Party on their general election
victory.
Helen Clark said that Tony Blair's achievement in winning a second mandate by such a large margin was remarkable and
historic.
"In both New Zealand and Britain, voters are opting for pragmatic centre-left governments with positive and inclusive
visions for the future.
"Those visions combine the rebuilding of public services with the push towards 'smarter' knowledge-based societies and
economies.
"The rebuilding of Britain, like the rebuilding of New Zealand, is a long-term project. In winning a second term, Tony
Blair has received strong endorsement for his project of building an inclusive society and a strong economy.
"In September this year the Progressive Governance group of leaders to which Tony Blair and I belong is due to meet in
Stockholm. All members of the group will be heartened by his victory. It encourages us all to continue our work to build
societies which are fair, inclusive and economically strong," Helen Clark said.
Ends