Roger Douglas resigns from Parliament 1981

Hunter W.

Banned
What if Roger Douglas had resigned in 1981 before becoming the poster-boy for the economic "reforms" and avoid the Labour split in the 1989 conference.
 
I think some changes would definitely still take place, New Zealand was dysfunctional by 1984 and on the verge of bankruptcy. Maybe Caygill becomes Finance minister, I once had Stan Rodger take it. It could be like Hawke-Keating in Australia. In that case Labour could get three terms keeping their base while gaining middle-class support. In 1993 National takes power and Labour may shift back to the left. I think without the trauma of the 1980s period and rapid change(even if it ultimately did good) there would be less dissatisfaction with the government so no MMP and FPP stays. However if Labour fails to revive the economy they may lose in 1987 if there is no change at all. I think in the long-term New Zealand would have less inequality and social problems but might not be so well off economically.
 
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