Club wants to give bench a chance

Press, 12 September 1987, Page 3

Club wants to give bench a chance

By

DAVID CLARKSON

The Sunday Club was willing to give the new National Party front bench a chance to see how it performed, said its chairman, Mr Bert Walker, in Christchurch yesterday. The National Party protest group — formed after the ousting of Sir Robert Muldoon as party leader — offered a somewhat grudging acceptance of the new line-up, which does not include Sir Robert. “I guess we have to give them an opportunity to see how they perform in their various positions,” said Mr Walker. Sir Robert has been left without specific responsibilities. • Mr Walker said he

hoped that\ meant Sir Robert had been left as a “free agent,” to discuss whatever matters he chose.

He hoped Sir Robert had not turned down any spokesmanships he had been offered. “He still has a tremendous following in this country,” Mr Walker said. “While I am sure he doesn’t ever seek to lead the party again, what he has to say is listened to by people in all walks of life.

“If there were a move to isolate him from the rest, it would not help the National party at all.” Of the other appointments, Mr Walker said:

• “Knowing Ruth Richardson’s enthusiasm and determination to master whatever problem she faces, I know she will

work hard on the finance portfolio.” • “Defence would come as a natural to Don McKinnon. I haven’t any doubt he will handle health well.”

• Dr Lockwood Smith, the spokesman on education, would probably be popular because of his previous involvement with a children’s television quiz show. “He is a very good person with a big future in politics.”

Mr Walker said that the Sunday Club’s efforts were a reason the National party had done “as well as it did” in the General Election.

It had brought in many party members, and its workers were active in most electorates.

The Sunday Club had 50,000 members, including some electorate chairmen, although Mr Walker declined to name then.