Audrey Young has a look at the Labour Leadership in today's NZ Herald. According to her analysis there seems little doubt that Goff's the man for next time around (the only competition identified is King - who Young says would put love before the top job). The article is perhaps most interesting because of what is says about the next generation of Labour leaders.
AND THE NEXT GENERATION...
SHANE JONES The perfect candidate on paper, expert in Maoritanga and Harvard-educated, but the first-termer is not experienced enough and not steeped in party culture.
DAVID CUNLIFFE Has won over the public for his strong leadership in health but has still not won over his caucus, who have as little regard for him as they do for his ego. Could be deputy material.
CLAYTON COSGROVE The Mike Moore acolyte has won respect from the Left of the party for his ability to put differences aside - but not that much respect.
DARREN HUGHES Clever, witty and able but needs another six years under his belt to shake off the kid-brother image and show his serious side.
MARYAN STREET A classic modern Labour MP - policy-driven feminist with a strong human rights bent - not as scary as she sounds. Could be an a contender for deputy to Goff.
DAVID PARKER Bright, methodical, a details man but has too much of an academic approach to the job.
ANDREW LITTLE Ruled himself out of Parliament next term but could do a Bob Hawke after 2011 if other leadership combinations have failed.
For the record Little has not ruled himself out of Parliament next term. He just isn't going to stand in 2008. If you are including Darren Hughes, you should at the very least be including Grant Roberston - as good a track record outside Parliament as Cunliffe, stronger political credentials, and much better liked by colleagues.
