Comment From The Capital National Conference Not... (Press, 5 August 1974)

The National Party's thirty-eighth annual conference, held in Wellington over the weekend of August 3-4, 1974, marked a significant departure from past gatherings, igniting feelings of frustration and urgency among delegates. With the party struggling under a 23-seat minority in Parliament, complacency was replaced by calls for action and reform. Attendees left feeling provoked, with some questioning the performance of current National Party members. Despite the upbeat atmosphere surrounding the election of Helen Carmichael as the party's first women’s vice-president and a strong initiation of discussions on women's roles, many female delegates expressed disappointment at the portrayal of women in traditional social roles. Additionally, Maori group representatives voiced their dissatisfaction over a lack of engagement and attention to their proposals, particularly regarding the number of Maori seats in Parliament. The resilience of incumbent MPs was a key topic, with party leader Rob Muldoon advocating for their endorsement as candidates for the upcoming election. This move, however, sparked controversy as many delegates interpreted it as a heavy-handed directive, causing a swirl of speculation regarding potential challenges to sitting members, especially from newer candidates hoping to contest in various electorates. The conference was also punctuated by a wide array of remits addressing socially significant issues such as homosexual law reform, contraceptive accessibility, and abortion law modifications. The discussions highlighted a diversity of opinions on sensitive topics, reflecting the conference's intent to engage in serious public discourse. A proposal for a referendum on abortion reform was narrowly rejected, signalling ongoing divisions within the party. While early criticisms were directed at the remits, they ultimately facilitated constructive dialogue and the exchange of diverse viewpoints, which led to a more dynamic conference atmosphere. Muldoon's leadership was put to the test, with the former party leader, Jack Marshall, making a poignant appearance to elucidate the circumstances surrounding the leadership change, which had occurred while he was abroad. The conference concluded with a recognition that the National Party is moving forward, shedding its recent past and focusing on the future. Overall, it represented a pivotal moment, as the party sought to align itself with its foundational liberal values while addressing contemporary challenges and the need for a more cohesive vision as it approached the next general election in 1975.

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