Marian Hobbs retires

Marian Hobbs has just announced, as widely expected, she will not contest the 2008 election. She will head to the UK to take up teaching opportunities there.

My favourite memory of Marian is when I was on a parliamentary quiz team with her, competing at the Australian High Commission. Her warmth and sense of humour were delightful.

Despite a somewhat rocky start when she picked up the nickname of “Boo-Boo, the 5th tellytubby”, Marian developed into a very competent Minister. I was very surprised when she didn’t remain in the Ministry.

Marian has also been a diligent advocate for Wellington, and it has been good to see her and Mark Blumsky working together on issues such as the Karori Sanctuary.

It will be interesting to see who seeks Labour’s nomination. Grant Robertson and Phil Lewin are two names I hear. I suspect there will be quite a few keen on it.

Hat Tip: Welly Girl