A newly-promoted Pacific Island MP in New Zealand's Opposition Labour Party says his elevation to the front bench will ensure his party is in a position to represent the Pacific credibly.
Charles Chauvel was one of three Labour MPs promoted after three shadow ministers were demoted last week for abusing their ministerial credit cards.
While other Pacific MPs have held senior Cabinet posts, Mr Chauvel, who's of Tahitian descent, will be the first Island MP to sit on the front bench on either side of the house.
"'And I think it can only help to have people who are of the Pacific in leadership roles in Labour, so that when it's our turn again, when we're operating in the region, we're doing it in the way that is truly understanding of the needs of the people of the region rather than in a paternalistic fashion."
Labour Party MP, Charles Chauvel.
