Wall was noted for his firmly held socially conservative views and opposition to legalising abortion and homosexuality, which frequently brought him into conflict with his contemporaries.

Porirua Mayor John Burke said of Wall "He was a man who had the courage of his convictions – if he felt strongly about any issue it concerned him little who or how many disagreed.

To earn enough money to pay for his medical studies he worked at various times on farms as a labourer, shearer, shed hand, and musterer.

[4] Wall first entered politics at a local level and was a member of both the Marlborough Hospital Board and Blenheim Borough Council for two terms.

A pro-choice remit was submitted to the committee reading "That the Labour Party when it becomes the government will give favourable consideration to liberalising the present legislation on abortion" which Wall recommended be amended to instead read "That we acknowledge the growing interest and concern to the world over the moral, medical and social problems involved in abortion.

Wall's next clash with colleagues came over the Crimes Amendment Bill 1975 which would have legalised "homosexual acts" between consenting males over 20, which he opposed.

[1] Wall had a reputation as a "prickly character" and his inclination to follow his convictions, even when they contradicted his colleagues, cost him political advancement.

[10] Ahead of the 1978 election he was again challenged for the nomination by Reverend Don Borrie, a local Presbyterian minister, believing Wall was "out of touch" with his constituents particularly regarding health issues.

[12] In the lead up to the 1981 election the Porirua Labour Electorate Committee passed a motion of no confidence in him as part of an unsuccessful attempt to de-select him as the candidate.

[13] Parliamentary colleague Mike Moore said "He [Wall] was a man of fierce and strong opinions ... he was a unique character who made great sacrifices for his principles.

Colleagues thought he had a tendency to overdo his role and was too tough on opposition MPs, almost everyone was ejected from the chamber at least once during his two years as speaker.