Cabinet in for first shakeup

By HERALD POLITICAL STAFF

The Clark Administration will undergo its first ministerial shakeup today, with the Prime Minister due to announce job changes in the wake of the election of a new Maori Affairs Minister.

Sources said last night that there were tensions over the ranking for the cabinet newcomer, Parekura Horomia, with Maori MPs in particular eager that he assume a slot befitting the importance of the Government's Closing the Gaps strategy and the Maori vote.

The Maori MPs made it clear that they would not accept Mr Horomia's being given the lowest ranking in the cabinet - number 20.

Alliance deputy leader Sandra Lee and Police Minister George Hawkins are understood to be two of a number of ministers who will receive new associate positions, though they will retain their present responsibilities.

Ms Lee's extra duties are being seen as compensation for her not winning the Maori Affairs portfolio, while Mr Hawkins' new responsibilities should help to placate him if the new minister receives a higher ranking in the cabinet.

The Prime Minister's office remained tight-lipped last night, but the Herald understands that Helen Clark will make the changes at the same time as Mr Horomia is sworn in this morning to replace dumped minister Dover Samuels.

The Labour Maori caucus also met to discuss whether a new associate minister should be appointed to fill the position previously occupied by Mr Horomia.

Helen Clark indicated that she would not immediately appoint any new ministers, although she left the door open for change by saying that was only her intention "at the moment."