English pays tribute to Merv Wellington
Opposition Leader Bill English is today paying tribute to former Education Minister Merv Wellington who died at home on
Sunday at the age of 62.
The National MP for Papakura was Education Minister from 1978 to 1984.
"He was a fierce advocate for excellence in education and those views put him ahead of his time," says Mr English.
"Merv Wellington was a courageous politician who wasn't afraid to voice his opinions.
Mr Wellington was plucked from backbench obscurity by the then National Prime Minister Rob Muldoon.
"He was also an unwavering patriot who believed the flag should fly in every school.
"Merv Wellington was a New Zealander who loved New Zealand and the National Party extends its condolences to his
family," Mr English says.