Media statement
For immediate release
Wednesday, 10 March 2004
Dunne: Brash fails NZ
Dr Don Brash has failed his first major test as the leader of the National Party, according to United Future leader,
Peter Dunne.
“By rejecting the offer of consultation from the Prime Minister over an inquiry into New Zealand’s constitutional
arrangements, Dr Brash has placed the interests of the National Party ahead of the interests of New Zealand and, in so
doing, has demonstrated he is unfit to lead this country.
“Dr Brash pretends my call for such an inquiry is some sort of last-minute panic attack inspired by the Labour
government when he knows full well I have been campaigning for this since 1994 and, further, that it will not be
confined to the current debate on the foreshore and seabed.
“Sadly, Dr Brash’s naiveté and political inexperience are beginning to show. Having launched a debate on race with his
Orewa speech, he is now running frantically in the opposite direction as soon as he is offered the opportunity to take
part in just such a mature debate,” said Mr Dunne.
“This is an opportunity for Dr Brash to show real leadership and I urge him to reconsider his hasty decision.”
Ends