Media Release
10 September 2003

Labour's Great Contribution To Maoridom - Gambling

New Zealand First is appalled that the Government, with the support of United future, is changing the law to allow interactive gambling.

“What is the Government thinking in doing this? Is it not bad enough that there are pokie machines in most bars and pubs around the country?” said New Zealand First Maori Affairs spokesperson, Bill Gudgeon.

“This is not going to help Maori at all and only encourage them to gamble more by making gambling more accessible via the internet or phone text messages,” said Mr Gudgeon.

Mr Gudgeon asked Maori why they voted for Labour when it was a party that seemed intent on bringing them to their knees.

“If the Government really wants to help Maori it should stop and think a bit more about the financial effects of gambling on families.

“Wake-up New Zealand, this is not what you voted for,” said Mr Gudgeon.

ENDS

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