Franks To Seek ACT Leadership

Friday 30 Apr 2004

Stephen Franks Press Releases

ACT New Zealand MP Stephen Franks today confirmed that he would seek the leadership of the Parliamentary ACT Party.

He returned early from the US - where he was studying US justice reforms that have cut crime rates by at least 30 percent across the country - and was satisfied from discussions this morning that the selection process and the level of support would make it worthwhile.

"I did not come to Parliament seeking leadership. My ambition was to get enough experience to be an outstanding Minister of justice. For years our law has become increasingly complicated, and less and less effective. I thought I could change that.

"With Richard Prebble's unexpected withdrawal, I want to ensure that ACT New Zealand is a party where every MP will be remembered, where every MP is seen for the principles they stand for, and where we are recognised for the truth of our brand `principles not politics'.

"I believe that a leader must set the tone, as well as being a key face for the principles. In Richard Prebble, we've had such a strong personality that the strength of principles has sometimes been overshadowed. I want the personalities of each caucus member to emerge in a framework where everyone knows exactly what kind of society we want to help build," Mr Franks.

ENDS

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