Don Brash MP National Party Leader

18 November 2003

National announces new Deputy Leader

National Party Leader Dr Don Brash has announced that Gerry Brownlee will be the new Deputy Leader of the National Party.

Mr Brownlee was elected following a vote at this morning's Caucus meeting. He was the only MP standing for the position.

"The National Party Caucus has this morning accepted my recommendation to install Gerry Brownlee as Deputy Leader and get back to the business of holding this Labour Government to account," says Dr Brash.

"This has not been an easy period for anyone in the Party, but we all share a common goal of winning the next election and 'putting right' the damage that Helen Clark is doing to our country.

"Gerry Brownlee brings considerable experience in the Parliamentary debating chamber and he's an aggressive debater who's held in high regard by his colleagues.

"That's exactly what National needs as the Party takes a clear message to New Zealand ahead of the next election.

"Former Deputy Leader Nick Smith will move to the number six slot on the front bench in recognition of his abilities and his workload. He'll also retain his environment and local government portfolio responsibilities.

"Simon Power will move into the number three position, now vacated by Mr Brownlee, who moves to number two," says Dr Brash.

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