Thursday, 2 June 2005

Alexander slates Labour-Greens support for criminals

United Future law and order spokesman, Marc Alexander, says the passage under urgency today of the Prisoners' and Victims' Claims Bill marks his worst day in Parliament since he became an MP in 2002.

"We began brilliantly with victims' rights legislation early in the term and we've made some baby steps since, but this Bill is three steps backwards."

Mr Alexander told the House, "The blood of victims has been spilt today on the steps of our criminal justice system, but their voices will not be silenced."

He also said the Minister of Justice should not be the Minister of Foreign Affairs as well, since one portfolio was concerned with victims' rights and the other with upholding New Zealand's international obligations, which undermine victims' rights.

"The legislation, backed by Labour and the Greens, gives everything to thugs and criminals and does nothing for the cause of the victims of crimes. I predict it will come back to haunt them," he said.

ENDS

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