Who could get chopped from Cabinet in a 'refreshed' National

  • 08/12/2016
National's Cabinet could be in for a refresh under the new PM (Simon Wong / Newshub.)
National's Cabinet could be in for a refresh under the new PM (Simon Wong / Newshub.)

By Newshub Politics staff

With the big push on for "regeneration and refreshment" in National, the Newshub politics team takes a look at whose time is up in Cabinet, and who is fresh enough to stay.  

Who could get chopped from Cabinet in a 'refreshed' National

One of Gerry Brownlee's many claims to fame is inventing 'the Brownlee Barge' - barnstorming through airport security as Transport Minister.

Past expiry? No. He’s still going strong. A Mafioso-style captain of National's caucus, nobody will mess with him. He plays an absolutely crucial day-to-day role for the party, and has a long way to go yet. Possibly the next Speaker or Minister of Foreign Affairs.

Who could get chopped from Cabinet in a 'refreshed' National

Murray McCully is the 'Dark Prince' also known as 'McCullyavelli' because he knows where more political bodies are buried than anyone.

He is ready to retire, but will go on his own terms. Safe as houses. Like Brownlee, he is untouchable.

Who could get chopped from Cabinet in a 'refreshed' National

Nick Smith is 'The Million Dollar Minister' - Auckland average house price went to $1million on his watch. He botched the Kermadec Sanctuary too, making for a shocking year.

Is he past his expiry date? Absolutely. However, he is one of Bill English's best friends - so will get a stay of execution.

Who could get chopped from Cabinet in a 'refreshed' National

Sam Lotu-Iiga totally botched the Corrections portfolio and was effectively sacked from the role. He is well past his expiry date. In fact, he never should have come off the shelf in the first place. Highly likely to be axed from Cabinet.

Ministers outside Cabinet aren't safe either. Craig Foss, Jo Goodhew, Louise Upston and Nicky Wagner are all in serious danger of getting cut, but Paul Goldsmith is safe.

Who could get chopped from Cabinet in a 'refreshed' National

Newshub.