5 Jul 2009

Peters refuses to be drawn on political future

11:25 am on 5 July 2009

Former New Zealand First MP Winston Peters has given his first major political interview since his party failed to return to Parliament following last year's election.

Winston Peters avoided answering questions about his political future on TVNZ's Q+A programme on Sunday but confirmed he is still the leader of New Zealand First.

When asked directly about whether he intended to stand at the next election, Mr Peters evaded the question.

New Zealand First gained 95,000 votes, or 4.1% of the party vote, short of the 5% threshold needed to retain seats in Parliament.

Winston Peters would not be drawn on why he thought his party failed to be returned.

He criticised a review which recommends repealing the Foreshore and Seabed Act and allowing iwi to seek land title through the courts.