Constitutional Change By Stealth Not On

Media release
3 July 2003

Constitutional change by stealth not on

Concern expressed today by a wide range of Parliamentarians again underlines that the Government must not push through a major constitutional change by stealth, says Business New Zealand.

Chief Executive Simon Carlaw says abolishing access to the Privy Council and establishing a Supreme Court by a simple vote in Parliament remains completely inappropriate.

"This order of change and its consequences will impact on the rights and obligations of every New Zealander. It follows that New Zealanders should have the opportunity to decide, by referendum, whether to support the Government's proposals.

"At the very least, a referendum would require more clarity on some key Government policy issues where there is currently very little, for example, on the appointments process and on other issues where there have been consistent concerns expressed to the Select Committee.

"It remains true that business has been well served by access to a world class tribunal well versed in commercial and financial law. Removing that access to expertise will disadvantage not just business but the ability of every New Zealander to grow a better future."

ENDS

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