How happy is Bill?
During the current blow-up over Don Brash’s inbox, I have been wondering what Bill English must be making of the current state of his party. Is he still bitter about how a more extreme leader emerged to take over the National Party, propelled by Business Roundtable and Act types? Mr English has been dutifully silent on the issue. He really has no choice: if he seriously wants to take over National when Don Brash loses this year’s election, he’s going to have to remain loyal to the end.
However, the bitterness is bubbling not far below the surface. A campaign spy tells me that the Greens’ candidate for Clutha-Southland, Robert Guyton, has shared four candidate platforms with Mr English in recent times. The words “Don Brash” have not passed Mr English’s lips even once. The divisions in National’s caucus are palpable, and are just waiting for a third successive election defeat before bursting out into the open. The leaked Brash emails should probably be seen as the first skirmish in the next National leadership spill, which will turn into a full-scale battle on the morning of Sunday, September 18. The candidates in such a leadership race would be numerous: at least Brash, John Key, Gerry Brownlee, Simon Power, and Bill English will put their hats in the ring.
August 31st, 2005 at 12:28 pm
Oh such a naughty wee frog trying to create stories. I love the part where you ask “is he still bitter” which is like “has he stopped beating his wife” in making a false assertion.
Bill’s conduct since losing the leadership has been a model for ex-leaders. Totally loyal, and rather than sulk like Mike Moore did he became a devastating education spokesperson decimiating Mallard and Maharey’s performance.
August 31st, 2005 at 12:42 pm
I guess time will tell on this one. If National lose, I think we can expect something similar to the Labour implosion of 1989-92 (not sure of the exact dates).
If they win, Don will be untouchable, at least for the first year or two.
August 31st, 2005 at 3:22 pm
Remember how Katherine Rich orchestrated her own sacking as Nat welfare spokesperson. I think we can add her to the lengthy list of aspiring Nat leaders.
August 31st, 2005 at 6:21 pm
I agree. I have just started ridiing every where again. The pointy seat has to go!!! (ouch)
ps.
peter If you want to keep the v8, then I think the greens are your best hope, because as the price of oil goes up, if theres an alternative for the rest of us, that might lower the demand and reduce prices a bit for you v8 drivers out there. (Of course it will still be in excess of $2.)