Tariana Turia and Dr Pita Sharples, Co-leaders of the Maori Party, today extended congratulations to John Key on his appointment as Leader of the National Party; and to Bill English, as Deputy Leader.

“We will be happy to meet with the new leadership at an appropriate time to discuss the interests of the Maori Party” said Tariana Turia. “This is consistent with our stated position of keeping communication lines open with all parliamentary parties”.

“We will approach any such discussions as being constructive opportunities to further the interests of tangata whenua, for the benefit of this nation” said Dr Sharples.

ENDS

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