Labour Defeated In New Zealand Election; Helen Clark Quits Leadership

The New Zealand Labour Party government has been defeated in today’s general election.

The Prime Minister, Helen Clark, has conceded defeat and announced her resignation as Labour leader.

“My job as leader of the Labour Party is complete,” Clark told supporters.

Clark’s government was elected in 1999 and served three terms.

The new Prime Minister will John Key, leader of the National Party.

Latest figures show Labour’s vote has slumped to 33.77% in the election, whilst the National Party is polling 45.46%. The Greens are on 6.43%.

Under the mixed multi-member proportional voting system used in New Zealand, the composition of the Parliament is not clear. The National Party will now enter into negotiations with minor parties.

Click the Play button to listen to Helen Clark’s concession speech:

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