Qld: Independent MP defects to National Party=2

AAP General News (Australia)
12-21-2001
Qld: Independent MP defects to National Party=2

Mr Hopper, a former National Party branch member who resigned his membership over the
unfair treatment of former premier Sir Joh Bjelke-Petersen in his final days, said today
he had initiated talks to join the National Party's parliamentary wing.

He said he had first mentioned his interest to veteran National Party frontbencher
Vince Lester about two months ago before having a more lengthy discussion with the Nationals'
deputy leader Vaughan Johnson.

Mr Hopper said he wanted to rebuild conservative politics in Queensland.

"I've been in the House nearly a year, with One Nation, Liberals, Nationals and six
Independent members - we've got to be a force to beat 66 (Labor) members and there is
no sense to go on your own," Mr Hopper said.

He said he had no knowledge of other Independent MPs reconsidering their independence.

Queensland Opposition leader Mike Horan said he would decide on a shadow portfolio
for Mr Hopper in January, but ruled out a reshuffle of all portfolios.

Mr Horan said the move was a step forward for unity between conservative forces.

"This is an important message coming through that in Queensland, where we have optional
preferential voting combined with the 'just vote one' trick, the only way we will defeat
the Labor government and bring about some better polices for Queensland is by getting
unity on the conservative side of politics," Mr Horan said.

"We welcome Ray's courageous decision."

Mr Horan said the party was not currently talking with any other Independent MPs regarding
their future.

AAP pjo/jhm/cjh t

KEYWORD: HOPPER 2 BRISBANE(REOPENS)

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