Bridges rules out working with NZ First

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National leader Simon Bridges says he does not trust New Zealand First and the public could not either. Photo: RNZ

National Party leader Simon Bridges has ruled out working with New Zealand First in any potential government after this year's election.

Bridges made the announcement on the opening day of the party's caucus retreat in Havelock North on Sunday.

This story was first published by RNZ

In a statement provided to media, Bridges said he did not trust New Zealand First and the public could not either.

"I don't believe we can work with NZ First and have a constructive trusting relationship.

"When National was negotiating in good faith with NZ First after the last election, its leader was suing key National MPs and staff."

Bridges said, with today's announcement, voters had a clear choice and certainty about what they would get at the ballot box on September 19.

"A vote for NZ First is a vote for Labour and the Greens," Bridges said.

"A vote for National will mean more money in your pocket, more transport infrastructure and safety for your family. We will get things done."

Bridges also indicated that National would again be open to working with the ACT Party, saying they had previously shared a "constructive working relationship".

Asked to describe Peters in one word, Northcote MP Dan Bidois said "gone".

RNZ

2 Comments

Comments

Changeit Sun, 02/02/2020 - 8:24pm #

Good Decision. After all the petty insults Winston has fired at Simon Bridges it would be ridiculous for National to consider a coalition with NZ First.

JWinter Wed, 12/02/2020 - 6:09am #

Good decision.

Now all Nats need to do is replace Bridges with... anyone...and confirm the Epsom deal with ACT.

I'm predicting a one-term government for Labour. They've upset too many large groups of voters on way too many issues, and broken far too many (ALL?) of their promises.