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Hon Clem Simich MP National Member of Parliament

29 July 2004

Simich to seek list nomination only

National MP for Tamaki Clem Simich has announced that he will stand aside in Tamaki at the next election, seeking nomination as a list candidate.

Mr Simich has been the MP for Tämaki since 1992 when he succeeded Sir Robert Muldoon. He later served as Minister of Police, Corrections, Racing and the Audit Office in the Shipley-led National Government.

Mr Simich says despite the announcement of other nominees for selection in Tamaki, his support to remain the National candidate for the electorate was "never in doubt".

"However, I have decided that my aspirations following the election would be best pursued from the position of a list MP.

"I have been approached by the Leader and the President and invited to accept a place on the Party list from which I should be reasonably assured of election to Parliament.

"The Leader has advised me that it is his intention that I should be his nominee for Speaker, should the National Party be in a position to lead a Government following the election.

"It is his view, and I share it, that the role of Speaker can best be undertaken by a member who does not hold a constituency, and who can therefore take a step back from party politics, as is the case with the present Speaker of the House, the Rt Hon Jonathan Hunt.

"It is with considerable sadness that I have told my loyal Tamaki supporters of this decision. They have worked hard to support me. I deeply appreciate this and the support I have had from Tamaki constituents. Having lived here for 37 years I will continue to have their interests at heart.

"However, I greatly enjoy my role as a presiding officer and it is my desire to serve as Speaker, should the electors return a National Government led by Don Brash.

"I am making this decision now in order for the National Party to plan for an open selection contest in the electorate," says Mr Simich.

ENDS

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