Politics Blog - April 29 - May 5
John Key backs Christopher Luxon after bruising poll
ROBERT KITCHIN/STUFF
Former prime minister John Key has shared some supportive words for his successor, Christopher Luxon, who's faced ongoing questions over a poll showing his Government is losing popular support.
"I think it just reflects that the economy is quite tough at the moment and a lot of New Zealanders are feeling the pressure. This plays out in polls, when the economy is, you know, feeling vulnerable," Key said.
The former National leader was in Parliament on Tuesday, and sit in during question time - his first visit to the debating chamber since Luxon became prime minister.
Key said he was visiting Wellington, and was taking the chance to catch up with old colleagues and visit his old office at the top of the Beehive.
Reflecting on his first impression of Luxon in question time, Key said he was "doing a great job".
He said the coalition was working well together, despite some public tensions and the TVNZ poll showing NZ First was below the 5% threshold needed to return to Parliament.
"Look, I don't think there's any need for concern," he said.
"I think it just reflects that the economy is quite tough at the moment and a lot of New Zealanders are feeling the pressure. This plays out in polls, when the economy is, you know, feeling vulnerable," Key said.
The former National leader was in Parliament on Tuesday, and sit in during question time - his first visit to the debating chamber since Luxon became prime minister.
Key said he was visiting Wellington, and was taking the chance to catch up with old colleagues and visit his old office at the top of the Beehive.
Reflecting on his first impression of Luxon in question time, Key said he was "doing a great job".
He said the coalition was working well together, despite some public tensions and the TVNZ poll showing NZ First was below the 5% threshold needed to return to Parliament.
"Look, I don't think there's any need for concern," he said.