Simon Power
National Defence Spokesman

15 December 2003

National welcomes Defence appointments

The National Party welcomes the appointment today of two senior Defence personnel and a new Chief of Navy.

"Air Commodore David Bamfield, who will be promoted to Air Vice Marshal, is well respected within the Defence Force and we congratulate him on his new role as Vice Chief of Defence Force," says National's Defence spokesman, Simon Power.

"We are also pleased with the appointment of Commodore David Ledson as the Chief of Navy. Commodore Ledson, who will be promoted to Rear Admiral, brings strong leadership at a time when New Zealand's relationship with its key allies is at its lowest level ever.

"I look forward to meeting with the new appointees and, in particular, to their appearance at Select Committee next year.

"National also wishes Rear Admiral Peter McHaffie all the best in his retirement. He has done a sterling job as Chief of Navy," says Mr Power.

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