Bob Clarkson
National Party MP

09 May 2008

Bob Clarkson to step down at election

National Party MP Bob Clarkson today announced he will not now be standing as a candidate for the Tauranga seat in the 2008 general election.

“I stepped right out of my comfort zone when trying to help National win in 2005 and have watched on in horror at the Labour Government’s wastefulness and poor decision-making during my three years in Parliament,” says Mr Clarkson.

“I can see that National will win in 2008. It has a very strong team to take the country forward and I am happy to make room for a younger candidate to represent Tauranga in Government.

“I will leave Parliament at the end of this term knowing I have given good ideas to the party for the leaky homes problem, as well as practical solutions for the challenges facing first-home buyers.

“This decision has not been taken lightly and I have taken considerable time to weigh up all my options.

“I am 100% committed to the New Zealand National Party and leader John Key, and I will make sure we hold the seat of Tauranga in the 2008 election.

“I will support the new candidate to be selected and will maintain my role as Member of Parliament for Tauranga, along with the associated duties that entails, until the election.”

ENDS

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