Bill English National Member of Parliament

3 December 2000

Statement in response to media speculation

"I would like to repeat what my Caucus colleagues and I have already said: that leadership is not an issue in the National Caucus, despite speculation in the media. I have not raised the leadership issue in public or in the caucus. Mrs Shipley has had my support since she became the leader and continues to have that support.

"This speculation is being driven by the Government, because Labour want a distraction from the fact that most working families face a tough Christmas because they are $30 to $40 a week worse off than last Christmas.

"I am concentrating on my role as opposition Spokesman on Finance. National has worked effectively on these issues and we will continue to be effective.

"I want to be part of a National team, led by Jenny Shipley, that wins the next election.

"I don't intend to offer any further comment on this issue," Bill English said.

Ends

© Scoop Media