National Party leadership

Press, 24 October 1980, Page 12

National Party leadership

Sir, — I endorse the editor’s evaluation of the problems of National Party leadership in his leader (October 22). The people-of New Zealand, generally out of touch with academic politics, are more concerned with the real problems e.g., inflation, unemployment, interest rates, productivity, (or lack of it) honesty and integrity in work or business. Since 1975 we have been assured that it is only a matter of time before all these mundane problems will be under control: /' Whatever happens with the , National Party leadership, any politician must in all sense accept the fact that in 1981 a small swing against the Government puts them out, or a 1 large swing crucifies them, or leaves at the least a coalition. In any case Mr Muldoon will not be the Prime Minister. — Yours, etc., R. DONOVAN. October 22, 1980. National Party leadership Sir, — Conceding that Mr

Muldoon is perhaps not the most liked or diplomatic politician, ! must in fairness to him, protest about the continuous personal attacks. Merely replacing the Prime Minister is not going to solve problems which are world-wide. If true, , with most Western capitalistic countries facing similar dis-i aster through high inflation, mass unemployment, etc., this would surely be an economic miracle. To ensure re-election in 1981, National M.P.s evidently recognise the need for Mr Muldoon the “wonder man” with his magic box of economic tricks to r entice electors — many of them working-class people, into voting National., Maybe in 1984, when New Zealand, like many other Western countries, will have sunk to an all-time economic low,-some other party (peri haps Labour) will then be .burdened, with the enormous task of steering New Zealand, through sheer hard work and determination, fair dealings, and non-greedipess on the part of everyone — including politicians — back on to the road to economic recovery. — Yours, etc;,' J. P. STUART. October 22, 1980.