The Labour Party's ruling body had seriously considered suspending rather than expelling Chris Carter but his reaction to the proposal killed that as an option.Labour sources told NZPA that the party's national council saw suspension as a good way forward
The Labour Party's ruling body had seriously considered suspending rather than expelling Chris Carter but his reaction to the proposal killed that as an option.
Labour sources told NZPA that the party's national council saw suspension as a good way forward to punish Mr Carter for his July 29 letter sent to media saying a coup was afoot to oust leader Phil Goff because he couldn't win the next election.
Party president Andrew Little has also said suspension was on the table but part of that would have meant Mr Carter keeping quiet and he doubted he would do that.
The source said it had been very much a live option.
"Suspension was a view that had support within the party and council."
However, the source said Mr Carter went "ballistic" and his behaviour and threats to dish the dirt on colleagues meant that was dropped.
"We thought he wouldn't stick to the deal."
Mr Carter, who denies making any threats, told NZPA he had sought reconciliation at Monday's meeting but it was a kangaroo court.
"I was prepared to discuss anything," he said.
"Isn't it ironic that I am now being blamed for the expulsion, that if I had been more reasonable and accommodating (I would not have been expelled)... this has just turned into a vindictive witch hunt, really."
He said he had kept quiet until the past few days.
Mr Carter was expelled from the party after a six-hour meeting. He had already been ejected out of the Parliamentary caucus.
He has claimed that Labour MPs met to discuss the party leadership but Mr Goff said that was not true.
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