English takes National's deputy leader job

11:40 AM

Bill English is National's new deputy leader.

Mr English had little difficulty fighting off a spirited challenge from Christchurch's Gerry Brownlee at the National Party caucus in Napier today.

The thirty-nine-year old says he is humbled by the faith his colleagues have placed in him.

He has also taken the opportunity today to pledge his loyalty to leader Jenny Shipley.

Mr English says the meeting in Napier has been an opportunity for National to deal with a range of issues, both internal and external, and they can now focus on the 2002 election.

National's Junior Whip job has gone to Alec Neill, who has returned to Parliament with the departure of Simon Upton.

- IRN