Former MP backs new crop

Richard Prebble gave the Rotorua Daily Post his take on yesterday's election forum. PHOTO/STEPHEN PARKER

He's seen more than enough candidate debates in his almost 50 years in politics and yesterday's event in Rotorua was on a par with any he has seen.

Former Labour and Act Party MP Richard Prebble also thinks Rotorua and Waiariki will end up with the same MPs after this year's election with Todd McClay and Te Ururoa Flavell getting re-elected.

Mr Prebble, who lives on the shores of Lake Rotoma, said he was still a strong Act supporter and was doing voluntary work for the party in the Epsom electorate.

"I thought they were as good as any forum I have listened to and could be a good example to their political leaders on how to conduct a debate.

"They were restrained, but that is partly Rotorua and a reflection on the candidates, so I give them all credit," he said.

"Usually I come away from a forum like this thinking at least one of the candidates needed a visit to a psychologist, but not today."

He said he was interested in how Rotorua's new Act candidate would fare. "Lyall Russell, who is a first time candidate, I think has got some potential.

"I can remember my first speech and I think he made a much better effort and had the good sense to say when he did not know something instead of winging it."

He said Todd McClay was the strongest of the five candidates, "he was the only person who gave me any information that I didn't know". "He clearly demonstrated he is right over the issues and it was an impressive performance.

"Todd will race away and I said to Tamati it was not the right year for him, but I think he has got potential if he sticks at it."

But, he said locals should not get too excited with the prospect of having three or more MPs. "This happened in Tauranga a few years ago and it didn't do them any good at all."