Hon Bill English National Party Leader 9 September 2002

When best friends fall out

The days of the Prime Minister having good friends in high places appears to be coming to an end, says National Party Leader Bill English.

"US President George Bush has not bothered calling her about the Iraq situation because she has made New Zealand irrelevant so he and Tony Blair have decided she doesn't need to know, as she doesn't count.

"The National Party knows the importance of keeping good relations with our long standing allies, America, Britain and Australia. We should keep talking to them about their position on Iraq.

"In times of trouble there can be no doubt who New Zealand would call on so it is only right that we support those who we would expect to back us.

"After a few years of snuggling up to them, Helen Clark is now showing her true colours and our allies know it.

"Our influence can be best used by talking to our allies," says Mr English.

Ends

© Scoop Media