Brash relieves Connell of portfolios

National Party Leader Don Brash has tonight relieved Rakaia MP Brian Connell of his portfolio responsibilities, following a series of "destructive and ill-disciplined" comments over a long period.

Mr Connell will be left unranked in the National Party Caucus line-up.

"National is focused on providing a clear alternative to this already tired and discredited Government.

“Clearly Mr Connell, who has said that his National Party membership is irrelevant when he conducts his duties and forms his views, is unable to continue to represent National Party policy. He no longer has my confidence or that of the president," says Dr Brash.

The Party Board will, at a future meeting, determine if any further action is warranted.

Mr Connell was the National Party spokesman on Forestry, Commerce, Consumer Affairs and Statistics.

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