Has anyone else noted that Dr Cullen has taken the lead for Labour on pretty much every issue this week? And on at least a couple he has scored points victories over John Key (OIC regulation and Treaty Settlements)? The Labour caucus has noted this. If there is an improvement in Labour's performance in the polls there is no doubt who should be getting the thanks. And the timing of the next set of polls could not be better for Dr Cullen. They will come out at the end of March just before the PM embarks on a reasonably extensive overseas trip - we know she is planning to be at the side meeting on Afghanistan planned to coincide with the NATO summit in Bucharest 2-4 April. She then travels to Beijing for the signing of the China FTA (with Phil Goff) 6-9 April.
Remember where Bolger was when Shipley turned disloyal? APEC in Vancouver. Likewise can people remember Talboy's attempted coup against Muldoon??
The plotters think it unfair not to allow Helen one last triumph - what better than the China FTA. On return they are planning to deliver her the numbers - and leave the decision to her. An early exit will allow enough time to mount a campaign for the ILO job (comes up in Geneva in December). We are sure that the Government's full resources will be devoted to making that campaign a success.
