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Summary: Credibility Crucial Issue—p.m. (Press, 31 October 1978)
In the opening of the National Party's 1978 election campaign, Prime Minister Rob Muldoon asserted that the forthcoming General Election would hinge on credibility rather than party philosophy, criticising the Labour Party for its inconsistent principles. Speaking at a National gathering in Hamilton, Muldoon received warm applause from the predominantly National crowd. Notably, during his speech, Mayor R. Jansen interrupted to inform of a bomb threat, which had been deemed unfounded by police. Despite the warning, no attendees chose to leave. Muldoon’s address touched on the party's campaign slogan "We’re Keeping Our Word," presenting it as a comprehensive policy plan essential for New Zealand's progress into the 1980s. He described the current election manifesto as a long-term vision, evolving from the salvage operations undertaken in recent years. The Prime Minister framed the election around the question, “Who can you believe?” amidst some discordant interjections, including one that dismissed him as untrustworthy. Throughout his 45-minute speech, Muldoon avoided naming the Leader of the Opposition, Bill Rowling, but characterised the Labour Party as “totally leaderless” and in disarray. He depicted Labour's policies as being excessively accommodating to pressure groups without regard for the repercussions. He claimed that the National Cabinet after the election would reflect a diverse cross-section of New Zealand society. Laughter erupted when Muldoon candidly employed Māori language, and he faced criticism, labeled as a hypocrite for his stance on Māori issues. He questioned why Māori voters should support a Labour Party that, according to him, had historically failed to promote Māori candidates in winnable seats and had exploited Māori people's political allegiance for decades. He highlighted former Labour Minister Matiu Rata’s role in the contentious development of Bastion Point as a significant instance of betrayal towards Māori interests. Outside the venue, a substantial police presence was necessary due to various protests from groups such as the Women’s Electoral Lobby, Gay Liberation, and the Civil Rights Action Group, although the atmosphere within the event remained largely controlled and free from major incident. Political observers noted that Muldoon’s speech was more subdued compared to previous election campaigns, reflecting possibly changing dynamics in New Zealand politics at the time.
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