When Jenny Shipley was appointed health minister in the previous National government, she confidently told Parliament she would be judged on hospital waiting lists.

This was unwise, because the waiting lists didn't improve and she was indeed judged, loudly and often, by the Labour Party.

Wellington, March 3 NZPA - The Government is to consider tracking abusive mothers throughout their lives -- one of several recommendations in a new report out today.

Wellington, Feb 17 NZPA - The Labour Party tried to find out in Parliament today how much money was going to be allocated for the new Whanau Ora social services scheme but it was told to wait for the May 20 budget.

Wellington, Feb 16 NZPA - Development of the Government's Whanau Ora policy has been a shambles, Labour leader Phil Goff says. However Social Development and Employment Minister Paula Bennett is blaming the media for confusion around the policy.

Wellington, Feb 15 NZPA - Families using the new Whanua Ora social services system will have to accept it is based on the Maori way of doing things, Prime Minister John Key says.

Wellington, Feb 9 NZPA - The Government is signalling a tougher stance on benefits as it attempts to bring what it says is the increasing cost of welfare under control.

By Paloma Migone of NZPA Wellington, Jan 22 NZPA - The three-day Ratana celebrations began today with a warm reception for Prime Minister John Key and National MPs.

Wellington, Jan 15 NZPA - The economic performance gap between New Zealand and Australia is widening, Labour said today as it scorned the Government's efforts to catch up.

Correcting story network about 8.20pm yesterday and spelling of Whanau in 2nd par Wellington, Dec 17 NZPA - A new welfare system for Maori families could be given the green light as early as February, it was reported tonight.

By Maggie Tait of NZPA Wellington, Dec 16 NZPA - A campaign focused on preventing child abuse is not the way to go, Children's Commissioner John Angus said today, in sharp contrast to his predecessor's position.