Shearer’s announcement is streaming live on 3 News at 5pm.
Shearer is speaking – unanimous endorsement as leader.
Cunliffe has lost Shearer’s confidence. Cunliffe demoted, portfolios removed.
“Today is about moving forward, and putting division behind us” – “focus on the real issues”…
The short announcement has finished – questions are in progress.
Shearer is confident of support in February.
Cunliffe’s abilities will be missed, but he needs to display “loyalty” to return.
Cunliffe made a statement in caucus but it is to remain confidential.
There was a “robust discussion” – respecting the privacy of caucus.
Shearer believes he has the support of the wider Party membership. Cites the overwhelming response of members to the successful conference.
Cunliffe’s portfolios will go to a “temporary replacement” to be announced within days, a wider reshuffle is likely in the future.
“As a leader it was necessary for this to happen … I want to put this behind us … I want to move on to the issues that matter” [all “quotes” are approximate]
Shearer supports the constitutional changes passed at conference, a “stronger more democratic party”.
Shearer’s discussion with Cunliffe prior to the meeting was a “private conversation”.
The session has ended.
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