It is time for new things in New Zealand politics. There is an urgent need for leadership on the key family values issues that are foundational to the wellbeing of our children and the welfare of the people of New Zealand. No such leadership currently exists in our Parliament. I have concluded that such leadership is not going to come via the National Party. Hence after ten years of membership I have moved on.

It was with some sadness that I bid farewell to the local branch of the Epsom electorate committee. The Eden-Epsom members have always been respectful and supportive however even they knew that the conclusion I had come to was unfortunately true. In the wider party there is no appetite for anything other than business-as-usual politics. You can talk about the economy and perhaps some social policies to try and pick up the pieces of our broken families – but never address the root causes. That is far too controversial and risks rocking the boat.

Of course there a number of Christians and social conservatives in the National caucus, apparently even its leader counted among them. However the party offers no mandate for their views. Its ethos is increasingly socially liberal in reflection of the wider culture in New Zealand. And yet it is this very culture which is the problem.

Our Parliament needs a voice which will speak to this. After ten years and four unsuccessful attempts at candidate selection, I know that voice will not be heard from National. It’s time for something new.

Ewen McQueen
June 2018