Bill English had the classic politician’s dilemma – stick with the photo op or move on to urgent formal business?
And he took the politician’s option – compromise.
Called to sit with a primary school ukulele orchestra in the Niuean ‘capital’ of Alofi, he stuck with it as the kids launched into a merry tune.
A wee one beside him looked up at him for a bit and he had a quiet word before looking out towards his staff who had the Niue Premier and dignitaries waiting for a tourism briefing inside.
English positioned himself to get up from the front row of kids, thought better of spoiling the moment and sat back. A few more bars, but then, the call of the statesman got to him, he stood gingerly and gave a half wave to the playing children before disappearing to the serious business of Pacific touring.
The little girl shuffled over a bit, unmoved, and the band played on.
