NZPA:
The Maori Party has withdrawn its support for a government bill after its bid to have Maori members on polytechnic councils failed.
The Maori Party put up an amendment which would have ensured that councils had at least three Maori members. The Government didn’t accept the amendment and it was defeated.
The Maori Party told ministers before the vote that if the amendment was unsuccessful, it would withdraw its support for the bill. The Government still has a majority for it to be passed and will rely on the ACT Party’s votes.
Labour strongly opposes the bill, and said after the committee stage debate that it stripped away guaranteed representation for Maori, students, staff, industry and community representatives.
Yes, as usual, Labour vote with the Maori Party, for Maori representation and National vote it down. But remember, kids, National are the good guys.
Do you think that this latest defeat by their so-called partners will make the Maori Party reassess whether they’re getting anything back for supporting this government? Not a chance. Turia and Sharples will keep their baubles. Keep claiming victory as the defeats pile up.
Oh, want to see the Minister of Education explain this policy? Good luck. She was too busy signing Christmas cards.
[hattip: gobsmacked]
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