"David Parker's shock decision to pull out of the Labour Party leadership race just two days into the contest was prompted by his running mate, Grant Robertson, supporting a rival contender, the Herald understands.
Mr Robertson is backing Mt Albert MP David Shearer against finance spokesman David Cunliffe.
So too, now, is Mr Parker. "There is growing support for a new face to lead the Labour Party," he said. "I intend to support David Shearer in his bid."
It's unusual in New Zealand leadership contests to make such public declarations.
But given Mr Parker's high standing in the party, his endorsement will be a big advantage for Mr Shearer, who has been in Parliament for only two and a half years.
Mr Robertson would not confirm last night that he had shifted his support to Mr Shearer but said he held Mr Parker "in the highest regard personally and as a politician"."
Mr Robertson is backing Mt Albert MP David Shearer against finance spokesman David Cunliffe.
So too, now, is Mr Parker. "There is growing support for a new face to lead the Labour Party," he said. "I intend to support David Shearer in his bid."
It's unusual in New Zealand leadership contests to make such public declarations.
But given Mr Parker's high standing in the party, his endorsement will be a big advantage for Mr Shearer, who has been in Parliament for only two and a half years.
Mr Robertson would not confirm last night that he had shifted his support to Mr Shearer but said he held Mr Parker "in the highest regard personally and as a politician"."
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