By Rebecca Wright
The Labour Party leadership is remaining silent on the incident that spelled the end of Darren Hughes’ political career.
Acting leader Annette King is refusing to take questions following the police announcement that the allegations against Mr Hughes did not reach the evidential threshold to bring charges.
Mrs King has not commented on the case because the alleged incident happened at her house where he was a border.
Now, even after it has become clear the former MP will not face any charges, Ms King remains extremely sensitive.
So Mrs King shut up shop and Phil Goff dodged the bullet because he is overseas. It was left to third in command David Cunliffe to talk, albeit reluctantly.
“I think he's got some time now to chart his course and certainly welcome him back at some time,” said Mr Cunliffe.
But whether Mr Hughes had to leave at all is the question that will now be haunting Labour and its leader.
In Levin, where Mr Hughes lives, the detritus of his political career is piled up on his driveway and views were mixed on whether he should make a return to parliament.
Horowhenua Mayor Brendan Duffy has always supported Mr Hughes and continues to do so.
“I think it would be a tragedy for our nation if he wasn't able to get back,” said Mr Duffy.
A number of senior Labour MPs today told 3 News they believe Darren Hughes does have a future in Labour will be back in Parliament one day.
But they also say he needs some time out to recover and to do something else before he comes back.
3 News
source: newshub archive
