Long and Brash dismiss tension rumours

Former newspaper editor Richard Long (left) wants a change. Picture / Herald On Sunday

Don Brash's chief of staff, Richard Long, is leaving and will stay only until a replacement is found.

National planned to announce the retirement after its caucus was informed on Tuesday, but brought it forward after being approached by the Herald yesterday.

Mr Long was appointed by Dr Brash's predecessor Bill English, shortly before he lost the top job.

One political source said yesterday there had been tension between Dr Brash and the former Dominion editor and the leader had not wanted to renew his contract.
But senior National Party sources and Mr Long yesterday rubbished that, maintaining the decision had been his and he had signalled his intentions immediately after the election.

"I thought we ran a pretty good race and got a remarkable improvement in National's fortunes but it's a pretty tough job and I don't want to do it for another term," Mr Long said.

He would stay in the job until a replacement was found and the job would soon by advertised.

Mr Long would not speculate on his future, saying: "At the moment I'm looking forward to a long barge cruise in the south of France".

In a statement Dr Brash said he had received the resignation "with regret".

"I want to place on record my appreciation of the tremendous contribution Richard has made to the resurgence of the National Party as a major political force in this country.

"Richard Long has been a member of a very small team who have brought National to the brink of electoral success. I understand his desire not to commit to another term in Opposition and wish him well for the future."

Dr Brash meanwhile appears to have fended off a push from a section of the caucus for an internal restructure.

Junior whip Lindsay Tisch appears set to be promoted to the position of chief whip when the caucus meets this week

This comes despite doubts in some quarters he commands the authority to successfully manage such a big caucus.

Several other names have been floated, including that of former long-time chief whip John Carter, David Carter and Tony Ryall.

But it appears there is a feeling John Carter has already had a turn, while Mr Ryall finally had little enthusiasm for the role.

National deputy leader Gerry Brownlee also appears safe in his job as shadow leader of the House, despite rumblings he failed to orchestrate enough hits on the last Government and suggestions retiring chief whip Simon Power should get the job.