MMP is fair for everyone

MMP gives all New Zealanders a say and is fair for everyone. Voters need the full picture of its effectiveness before deciding its future, said the Green Party today.

“MMP has delivered representative democracy to New Zealand. It is a modern, fair system which is under attack from small, right wing groups that want to see a return to the 1980s,” said Green Party Co-Leader Metiria Turei.

“People can be proud of our current democracy. More women are represented in Parliament and it has increased representation for Maori, Asian and Pasifika communities. It allows a wide range of views to be heard in Parliament.”

The Government has indicated that it is likely a referendum on MMP will be held on or before the next election.

“MMP works. It has delivered Kiwibank, paid parental leave and home insulation. These types of initiatives would not have happened without MMP.

“The Government needs to review, with full public consultation, how MMP is working before it spends millions of dollars on a referendum. A good independent review would help New Zealand voters make an informed decision about what voting system is best.

“MMP helps to keep Government honest. New Zealanders deserve a modern democratic system that is fair for everyone,” said Mrs Turei.