1:00 Pm Monday 5 August 2002

Dunne Outlines United Future's Plans

Speaking to the Rotary Club of Wellington today in his first major post election speech, United Future leader, Hon Peter Dunne, outlined his party's plans for the coming three years.

He told the meeting United Future was a secular centrist party, capable of working with either of the major parties in government.

"We are neither left nor right - we are the sensible middle party MMP needs to work effectively."

"We draw from the classical liberal tradition with policies based on clear principles, a deep sense of compassion, and profound tolerance of others."

"We aim to be a constructive influence - certainly holding true to our core values - but also working positively with other parties on the things we agree over," he said.

Mr Dunne said United Future has commenced talks with Labour over the shape of the next government not for any ideological reasons, but because of a prevailing belief that the country needed economic and social stability, and people deserved an overall sense of security and certainty.

"The shift of votes at the election made it clear New Zealanders did not want a more left wing government, but preferred a broad continuation of the current direction with the addition of a moderating influence."

"United Future's role is to be that influence, and we are determined to play that role responsibly in the interests of good government and a stable economic climate on which much need economic growth can be built," he said.

Mr Dunne said it was also clear that United Future's emphasis on promoting the family struck a chord with many voters, and would be a priority in any agreement with Labour over the shape of the next government.

"We know that when the family is doing well, our country is doing well, and our goal is to make New Zealand the best place in the world to work and raise a family again."

"Too many New Zealand families are not doing well at present, and too many children are suffering."

"All of us in politics have to face up to the grim statistics and agree to work co-operatively to make a positive difference for New Zealand families," he said.

Mr Dunne said that United Future wanted any agreement entered into with Labour over the shape of the next government to be for a three year basis.

"Events like the break-up of coalitions over the last six years, or the Greens' threat to throw their toys out of cot over GE have given small parties a bad name, and have left New Zealanders feeling cynical and disillusioned."

"United Future will not go down that path."

"New Zealanders voted for us to be the middle party that can bring much needed common sense and stability back to government, and we are not going to abuse that trust and confidence," he says.

Ends

Note: The meeting Mr Dunne will be speaking at is at the Copthorne Plaza Hotel, Plimmer Towers, Wellington

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