3.45PM: Anti-gay political wannabe Colin Craig is standing down as leader of the Conservative Party, while there is a leadership review. He's fronted a media conference in Auckland this afternoon to say "there have been many varied rumours, ranging from the intriguing to the ridiculous" about his future with the party. Craig says some board members think it's timely to have a leadership discussion. "This stage in the election cycle is the appropriate time to consider the future direction and to implement key personnel and structural changes, if any." He says he has offered to stand down as leader "to facilitate the process". Craig would not say whether he will stand for the leadership in an upcoming vote. It follows months of unhappiness from within the party about his "kooky" public image, most recently due to an interview he did with TV3's David Farrier in a sauna for the show Newsworthy. One of the most outspoken New Zealanders against marriage equality, Craig believes being gay is abnormal and a choice, and says he could be gay if he wanted to. Craig and the party's president refused to answer questions about allegations in regards to a former staff member - allegations Craig has denied. The party missed out on a seat in Parliament at the past two elections, following campaigns heavily funded by Craig.
Credit: GayNZ.com Daily News staff
First published: Friday, 19th June 2015 - 3:44pm