Boxing fund-raiser upsets Bradford

Green Party MP Sue Bradford has criticised National leader Bill English for entering a celebrity boxing match to raise money for youth suicide.

Ms Bradford, the party's mental health spokesperson, lost a son to suicide in 1995.

"It just makes me cry to think that getting in the boxing ring is the best he can think of to do for youths at risk of suicide," she said.

"It's good he cares, but what good is getting his head bashed in going to do for mentally ill young people?"

Mr English will don gloves in a Fight for Life boxing match to raise funds for the prevention of youth suicide.

Mr English, whose 15-year-old nephew took his own life five years ago after being bullied at school, will fight at the fundraiser in Auckland, on June 6.

The event will be broadcast live on television.

Ms Bradford said boxing is one of the most violent and degrading sports around.

It perpetuated the culture of aggression and bullying that was often the last straw for vulnerable young people.

"Suicide is one of the most tragic events that can happen to any family," she said.

Politicians could do something about improving things, including the way that mental health services are delivered, she said.

"If Bill English wants a sparring match then I'll take him on. But it will be in the arena that politicians should stick to -- with words and policies."

Alliance MP Willie Jackson said in The Dominion newspaper today that he was a possible contender.

"I have to talk to a few friends and family before I hop into the ring with old Billie ... it's a very, very, good cause, I have to say that."

Mr Jackson, once a club bouncer, was not sure he was fit enough.

"I haven't done any training since last year. It's all right for Bill, he's running every five minutes."

Mr English told the newspaper he did not mind taking on Mr Jackson.

"Willie's all talk and no action."

Labour MP Rick Barker, who boxed as a child, said he would not fight and would recommend other Labour MPs did not.

He said Fight for Life bouts often deteriorated into "uncontrolled aggression ... (and) a graceless slug to try and demolish the other person".

Last year more then $600,000 was raised for the Yellow Ribbon Foundation that works to prevent youth suicide.

When organiser Dean Lonergan took the concept to Australia earlier this year, close to A$1 million was raised.

Mr English took about a fortnight to agree to box the three one-minute rounds after an initial meeting with Lonergan a month ago.

- NZPA