27 August 2002

Speech Verdict - No Heart, No Urgency, No Conviction.

Today's speech from the throne had no heart in it, says National Party Leader Bill English.

"The speech showed no sense of urgency or conviction about the challenges New Zealand has.

"It was pleasing to see Labour recognise the importance of economic growth, education and infrastructure. Their best ideas though have been lifted from National's manifesto. Despite having a record sized executive the government has no original ideas.

"The speech brushes over the problems accumulating in health and education, in particular huge hospital debts and Mallard's debacle with the NCEA.

"It also brushed aside voters concerns evident in the election campaign about sentencing and the role of the Treaty of Waitangi.

"I intend to build a constructive and vigorous opposition, working with the other opposition parties.

"This is a weak programme from a government without conviction, so there will be no honeymoon, " says Mr English.

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