According to this morning’s news, Tauranga National MP Bob Clarkson has announced his retirement from politics, again, at the next general election- which leaves that marginal electorate potentially recoupable by Winston Peters as a bolthole for New Zealand First, who previously held the seat for twelve years before he lost it to Clarkson at the last general election in 2005.

Clarkson (68) said he was out of his comfort zone, and now realised Parliament was for more scholarly types than he was. He wanted to make way for a younger candidate, and Opposition Leader John Key said that a replacement candidate would be quickly selected. Clarkson wanted to get involved in the construction industry again, and was frustrated at the inertia and powerlessness that accompanies backbench existence.

Well, okay, fine. Neither Clarkson nor Peters are particularly noted for their vocal support of LGBT rights. Unfortunately, Clarkson’s retirement may give some Tauranga voters the impression that National is insufficiently committed to the welfare of the electorate itself, given how much it made of Clarkson’s local background. Given its marginality, Tory born-to-rule arrogance may backfire on the party. 

It is hard not to see Peters exploiting the transient nature of the current Tauranga MP in the forthcoming general election, if he decides to stand for Tauranga again.

I’m breathless with anticipation. Not.

“Clarkson to Bow Out of Parliament” Yahoo News: 09.05.08: http://news.yahoo.com