To quell media speculation, David Parker advises that he is not seeking the leadership of the Labour Party, and that he confirmed this to David Cunliffe and his other caucus colleagues yesterday.

'For the time being, I remain the deputy leader of the Labour Party.

'It remains my wish to address the issues arising from our worst election result in 92 years through party and caucus processes, which is why I have not been commenting in the media.

'My recent speech to the party congress set out my views on the way forward for the NZLP and its relevance for New Zealanders.”

Source: Office of David Parker.