Former National party minister, Christopher Finlayson, served as one of the most senior members of the last National government, under Prime Minister John Key.
He held the portfolios of Attorney General, Minister responsible for the two main intelligence agencies, Minister for Treaty Negotiations as well as Arts, Culture and Heritage.
Since leaving politics, Chris Finlayson has returned to practising law, and has written a book about his time in parliament - in which he assesses his party's chances and challenges ahead of next year's election.
He makes some blunt observations around how candidates ought to be selected, and what sort of experience would-be MPs need before entering parliament.
He talks with Kathryn Ryan about Yes, Minister, published by Allen and Unwin.
Photo: Nicola Edmonds
