Wilcox says no to Labour

Stuff reports:

Maori TV’s Julian Wilcox has quashed speculation he will stand for Labour in the coming general election.

Wilcox has long been rumoured to be a potential candidate in Tamaki Makaurau, with speculation strengthening after the Labour Party council refused a waiver to allow ex-TVNZ presenter Shane Taurima to stand.

Maori Television issued a statement today saying Wilcox, the station’s general manager for news and current affairs, would not be standing for Labour.

“To clarify his position Julian Wilcox has made an unequivocal statement to Maori Television that he is not seeking political office for any political party in the forthcoming elections and remains committed to his job as GM of news and current affairs at Maori Television,” the statement said.

Not seeking political office, but was reportedly a member of the Labour Party last year.

I’m pleased for Maori TV. I’m not sure how Wilcox is doing as News GM there, but he did very well as host and interviewer on Native Affairs.

This does make Tamaki Makaurau more interesting. A high profile candidate such as Taurima or Wilcox would have been more likely to win it for Labour. This must improve the Maori Party’s chances of holding it. The first polls in the seat after candidates are selected will be interesting.