Dunedin South MP
David Benson-Pope remains coy about his future after the
Labour Party list released yesterday did not contain his
name.
The MP was earlier this year beaten for the Dunedin South
nomination by Dunedin public relations consultant Clare
Curran in a sometimes bitter battle.
The electorate remains divided, with Mr Benson-Pope still
commanding large personal loyalty from many in the
electorate.
He has been urged to stand in an independent capacity.
Asked yesterday whether he had decided about his future in
politics, Mr Benson-Pope said it was not surprising his name
was not on the list as he had not sought to be ranked there.
"I have no other comment to make other than to urge people to
vote Labour with their party vote."
There could be some indication of his future on September 9,
10 or 11.
On those days, retiring MPs will give their valedictory
speeches in Parliament.
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