Anderton launches new party in Auckland

4.00pm - By HELEN TUNNAH

Jim Anderton was cheered on as the new leader of Jim Anderton's Progressive Coalition today as the fledgling political party launched its campaign for next month's general election.

Mr Anderton, deputy prime minister in the Labour-Alliance government, took a number of swipes at his old party as he promised only the party he joined four days ago could be a responsible coalition partner for Labour.

He said he and Prime Minister Helen Clark proved they could work together, and the "Clark-Anderton" government had been the most successful in living memory.

Mr Anderton did not save his attacks just for the Alliance, which he said had chosen the politics of indulgence and irresponsibility.

He also hit out at the Green Party and New Zealand First. He said the Greens had threatend to bring down a future government which opposed their policy on genetic modification.

He said if that happened, it would open the door for National and Act to be given another chance at government.

"We will be a check on Labour at the cabinet table, but we won't make reckless demands or hold the country to ransom."

He said he and Miss Clark could work together to provide consistent, strong leadership.

"With all due modesty, can I ask where else that kind of leadership might come from."

About 200 people attended the campaign launch in the North Shore suburb of Glenfield, although they came from all over Auckland. Many had travelled north from South Auckland in support of MP Matt Robson, expected to be ranked number two on the party's list behind Mr Anderton when it is finalised after nomination day in early July.

While the room was filled with those faithful to Mr Anderton, it was a low-key launch, based on speeches from the party's four former Alliance MPs and a 60-minute address from the leader.

The fund-raising pail was sent around the room, although Mr Anderton said the Progressive Coalition had already raised $200,000 for its election campaign.

Entertainer Sir Howard Morrison took the stage to pledge his support to both Mr Anderton and Mr Robson, although he assured everyone he was not a candidate.

He said he liked Mr Anderton, who was direct and pragmatic.

"And like me he doesn't mind telling people how good he is."

Sir Howard delivered an empassioned speech about race relations, and called for Maori and Pacific Islanders to form a bi-polynesian accord to work for the betterment of both groups.

As expected Sir Howard later joined Mr Anderton for a rendition of Pokarekare Ana, although a recent bout of the 'flu had robbed him of his voice.

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