The Govt appears to accept it cannot deny the benefit to young people who refuse work or training until there are enough training places available.

John Key has announced a $152 million plan to create work, education and training opportunities for unemployed youth after the number out of work rose from 4000 last June to 17,000 this June.

Auckland businessman Peter Goodfellow has been elected president of the National Party.

The National Party will this weekend vote in a new president to succeed Judy Kirk. Audrey Young looks at some of the possible contenders.