30 May 2002

National Leader Bill English says his 'Fronting up to New Zealand' tour has got off to an excellent start, with strong attendances at public meetings and plenty of positive feedback.

Mr English's visit yesterday to the Coromandel and Hamilton was the start of his 35 day, 54 town tour, which will take him all around the country.

"People are clearly welcoming the opportunity to hear positive leadership on issues which are of concern to them. National's commitment to bring in tougher sentences and put more police on the beat is hitting home.

"I'm greatly encouraged by the warm reception I've been getting from people when discussing and outlining other National policies such as the Treaty, education, the economy and superannuation."

Mr English says people are genuinely interested in what National has to offer and are happy to get the opportunity to hear from him on these issues.

"Already, I've had many people telling me they like what they hearing and intend voting National at this year's election.

"The feedback I got from locals in the Coromandel is now that the Greens have declared their hand as a single issue protest party, they've given up on winning the seat in an effort to increase their party vote."

Today, Mr English is touring around the greater Auckland area. Tomorrow the tour heads south, with visits to Marlborough and the West Coast.

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