Jones lashes Norman
The bad blood between Shane Jones and the Greens continues. 3 News reports:
Labour’s attempt to muzzle its outspoken MP, Shane Jones, has lasted less than a day.
Mr Jones was told off by his leader for comparing Green MP Gareth Hughes to a screeching bird.
Today he took a shot at Green co-leader Russel Norman, saying he will not be lectured on the environment by an Australian.
Seemingly to prove he cannot be silenced, he let rip at Dr Norman, extending the anti-Australian attack he has used against Countdown to the Australian-born MP.
“I’m not going to have an Australian running the New Zealand Green Party, lecturing me about environment and economics in the north,” says Mr Jones.
And Norman hits back:
Dr Norman launched a counter-attack, accusing Mr Jones of copying Prime Minster John Key.
“The Prime Minister does it quite a lot; he’s also very critical of migrants,” says Dr Norman. “It turns out a part of the Labour Party doesn’t like migrants either. Every time Mr Jones opens his mouth the Green Party vote goes up, so I encourage Mr Jones to speak out.”
I’m not sure comparing Shane Jones to John Key is a great way to attack him. Incidentally never known the PM to be critical of migrants. I think Russel is projecting that the PM enjoys being told he must protect New Zealanders from Australian foreign investment, by someone with a thick Australian accent.
Mr Jones tried to be a team player, telling 3 News he had “to go and deal with the boredom of tax legislation”, but could not resist driving another wedge between Labour and the Greens.
“I like what David Cunliffe said on our behalf yesterday – Winston first.”
Long may the growing war between Labour and Green MPs continue.