26th October 2010

PRESS STATEMENT

The Speaker of the House of Representatives, Dr The Rt Hon Lockwood Smith, announced today that he would be seeking a place on the National Party List at the General Election next year, and not seeking re-election in his Rodney constituency.

“Serving one of New Zealand’s fastest growing areas is a real privilege. I will continue to help my constituents and push the major roading projects in the electorate, but as Speaker I have found it to be a little more difficult to be involved in political debate. By my seeking a place on the National Party List, I feel that no matter what the future may hold for me the people of Rodney will be able to select a new member better able to voice their views in wider political debate,” said Dr Smith.

ENDS