September 23, 2013
Maori MPs rewarded in reshuffle
New Labour leader David Cunliffe has given his front bench some Maori firepower.
His shadow cabinet includes both of his rivals for the top job, as well as prominent members of the Anyone But Cunliffe faction who opposed him.
Shane Jones has the number five spot behind two former deputy leaders, Grant Robertson and Annette King.
He is party’s spokesperson on economic development, retains Maori affairs, and also picks up building and construction and forestry.
Nanaia Mahuta comes onto the bench at number 9 with the shadow Treaty negotiations and Maori development portfolios, which will include developing policies for working with post-settlement iwi.
Louisa Wall comes off the back bench to the number 16 rank with responsibility for youth affairs, community and voluntary sector, and Moana Mackey at 18 will speak on environment, climate change, and science.
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