Hawkins proud of police achievements

George Hawkins says he wants to spend more time with his wife Jan. Picture / Mark Mitchell

Police Minister George Hawkins says he came to his own decision to not seek re-election to Cabinet.

The 59-year-old told Prime Minister Helen Clark of his decision yesterday morning and then announced it.

He was widely expected to be missing from the new Labour-led Cabinet line-up after his performance last term in the police portfolio when he was submerged in criticism over controversies such as the 111 system.

Mr Hawkins is understood to have been thinking about standing down for some time.

But the MP for Manurewa said he intended contesting the 2008 election in the seat and retiring in 2011 when he was 65.

"I've held public office for 25 years, three years on the Papakura City Council, nine years as mayor, I've been in here [at Parliament] 15 years, and I think I've done what I've set out to do.

"And I suppose I'm being selfish in some ways, I want to spend a bit more time with Jan [his wife]."

Mr Hawkins denied his performance in the portfolio in the past three years had anything to do with his decision.

"I look at the positive things we've done. We have 1300 more police than before I became Police Minister. Crime rates are at a 20-odd year low, and that's in real terms.

"Yep, there have been various things that haven't gone right but that's a part of being a Cabinet minister, and with police it's a bit more difficult because you cannot direct the police at all. You are prohibited by law."

Mr Hawkins said caucus colleagues had indicated he would have had the support to stay in Cabinet, but he was pleased with his decision.

Police Association president Greg O'Connor said Mr Hawkins had battled hard for the police after inheriting a portfolio that had been "run down considerably".