New PM: English cites 'strong support', won't name preferred deputy

Thursday 8th December 2016

Finance Minister Bill English says he is "finding strong support in the caucus” for his bid to replace John Key as Prime Minister next Monday after Key unexpectedly announced his resignation and departure from politics on Monday.

He would not discuss who he would back for deputy from the two declared candidates – Bridges and the Climate Change and Social Housing Minister Paula Bennett – saying that was a matter for the caucus.

English announced he would appoint Economic Development Minister Steven Joyce to replace him in the finance role if he becomes Prime Minister.

Speaking at the release of the Budget Policy Statement and updated fiscal and economic forecasts, English made the announcement to pre-empt questions, effectively making the first appointment in a Cabinet reshuffle he would expect to oversee, should his candidacy succeed.

English’s chances appear to be firming, with influential backbencher Todd Muller coming out this morning in support of English as leader, backed by the Transport and Energy Minister Simon Bridges, as his deputy.

Asked how Joyce’s appointment would square with an emerging desire from National’s backbenchers for Cabinet rejuvenation, English smiled and said: “Well, he’ll be a new Finance Minister.”

He would opt for Joyce because they had worked well together for eight years and he “has a fantastic set of skills”.

BusinessDesk.co.nz

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