16 September 2009

Revelations From Back Benches Super City Special Panel

In Monday night’s Back Benches: The Super City Special, several of the MPs weighed in on who they think should be the new Super City Mayor. When asked by Wallace Chapman who they would endorse for the Super City Mayor, each of the panellists certainly had something to say.

As an MP for Northland, National’s John Carter said it’s not his place to endorse. But other MPs were not so reluctant.

“I endorse someone who’s had the experience. Someone who understands the makeup of the Auckland people. And that’s got to be Len Brown,” said Dr Pita Sharples, co-leader of the Maori Party.

Labour MP and spokesman for Auckland issues, Phil Twyford, was reluctant at first.

“I don’t think it’s for politicians in Wellington to be telling Aucklanders who they should vote for. John Key did that when he endorsed John Banks,” said Twyford.

But when pressed, Twyford offered his opinion. “On a personal level, I’ve met Len Brown. I’ve seen him at work and I think Len Brown’s the man”

There was no hesitation for Sue Bradford, “No question, Len Brown.”

However, ACT Co-Leader and Minister of Local Government, Rodney Hide, would not be swayed. When asked who he was going to endorse for Super Mayor said, “none of them!”

If you missed this episode of Back Benches, a repeat screening is scheduled for this evening at 9.10pm on TVNZ 7. The show is also available at www.tvnz.co.nz/backbenches.

TVNZ 7 is available on Freeview Channel 7 and SKY Channel 97.

ENDS