Palmer The Parliamentary Years

Discover the captivating journey of Geoff Palmer in 'Palmer: The Parliamentary Years'. This meticulously researched biography by Raymond Richards offers a deep dive into the life and political career of New Zealand's 33rd Prime Minister. From his humble beginnings in Nelson as the son of a respected newspaper editor to his pivotal role in the transformative fourth Labour government, Palmer's story is one of ambition, reform, and resilience.

With 472 pages of rich content, this book illuminates how Geoff Palmer, armed with an education from the University of Chicago law school, emerged as a key figure in enacting significant legislative reforms, including changes to parliamentary procedures, the introduction of the Bill of Rights, and advancements in environmental policies. His tenure as deputy prime minister under David Lange allowed him to showcase his exceptional organizational and diplomatic skills, contributing to a legacy of reform that remains unmatched in New Zealand's history.

'Palmer: The Parliamentary Years' is not just a biography; it's a comprehensive examination of a leader's vision and the challenges he faced. This authorized account includes insights from over 200 linear metres of archival research, interviews with Palmer and those close to him, and a thorough exploration of his contributions to social and economic reform. Perfect for history enthusiasts, political science students, and anyone interested in New Zealand's political landscape, this book is a must-read.

Published by Canterbury University Press, step into the life of one of New Zealand's brightest political minds and gain a fresh perspective on the country's parliamentary history. Get your copy today and embrace the journey!

Author: Raymond Richards Publisher: Canterbury University Press

Dimensions: 234 x 153 mm
Pages: 472
Publication Date: 01-11-2010

Young Geoff Palmer from Nelson, son of a crusading newspaper editor, was a serious and purposeful child who latched onto the idea of being a lawyer when it was put to him by his well-read mother. He absorbed progressive ideas at the University of Chicago law school and planned to use legal means to effect social reform when he entered parliament in 1979.\nIn 1984 Palmer became deputy prime minister in the radical fourth Labour government, his organisational and diplomatic skills a good foil for David Lange's disordered brilliance. Through hard work and high intelligence, Palmer compiled a record of reform unmatched in this country's history, concerning parliamentary procedures, the voting system, the environment, longstanding Maori grievances, the Bill of Rights, economic reform and many other matters, big and small. He also shaped the legislative programme of the most reforming government in New Zealand's history.\nAfter five turbulent years Lange resigned, and Palmer became New Zealand's 33rd prime minister. His government made major and controversial decisions, but Palmer stepped down after only 13 months, after a challenge from within his own party.\nWritten for a wide audience, Palmer: The Parliamentary Years is the product of research involving more than 200 linear metres of archives, as well as interviews with Palmer, his family and associates, some now deceased. It is a fascinating warts-and-all, authorised biography of the political career of one of New Zealand's brightest sons.\n\nPublishing November 2010.