Tension mounts as Act MPs discuss Banks' role

John Banks

Informal talks are understood to be underway between Act MPs over John Banks' future in the party.

High-ranking members of the party are believed to want to resolve the issue quickly to minimise adverse publicity and to get the party on a path for the upcoming election.

There is believed to be tension within the party over what role Mr Banks should play.

Some members believe the former Auckland mayor and National MP would be an asset to the party, which is struggling in the polls. It is thought the outspoken Aucklander would give the party the lift it needs to ensure its political future.

But others believe Mr Banks would be a liability and that he is too socially conservative for the liberal party.

At the recent Act conference Mr Banks caused strain within the party after he said he would want a high list ranking if he stood and refused to rule out leadership aspirations.

His public outburst was deemed inappropriate by some party members and is believed to have soured his chances with the party.

But Mr Banks has not yet said if he will even put his name forward for candidacy. It is understood that Mr Banks plans to delay announcing his political plans so he can get maximum exposure.

Mr Banks refused to comment last night.