Chris Bishop
National List MP based in the Hutt Valley

Media statement

8 December 2016

Statement on National Party Leadership

“Today I'm announcing that I will vote for Bill English to be the new leader of the New Zealand National Party, and our new Prime Minister.

“When I decided to run for Parliament in 2014, Bill English was one of the big reasons why. He has done a superb job as Finance Minister, managing us through the GFC and the Christchurch earthquakes while simultaneously overseeing economic reform that now sees the New Zealand economy the envy of the developed world.

“But even more impressive, if that’s possible, is Bill’s unswerving commitment to tackling social problems that successive governments have put in the too hard basket. Entrenched welfare dependency. Too many of our kids growing up in hardship. Poor quality social housing. Educational underachievement by Maori and Pasifika. Addressing the causes and drivers of crime, not just the outcomes.”

“I’m confident that Bill’s commitment to incremental economic reform will continue as Prime Minister. And I know that a Bill English-led government will build on the hard work we’ve already done in tackling New Zealand’s intractable social problems.

Just over two years ago, New Zealanders voted for a strong and stable team led by John Key and Bill English. At this time of deep global uncertainty, I believe New Zealanders want and deserve experienced, strong and proven leadership. Bill English will provide that. I will be proud to serve in his caucus.

“The new Bill English-led National government will be different to the one led by John Key. They’re different people, and it’s inevitable they will have different approaches to government, and also a different team. A change in leadership provides an opportunity for new energy and regeneration, and fresh ideas. That's a positive thing for the National Party, and also for New Zealand”

ENDS

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