On Monday I announced this year’s upcoming election will be on Saturday, 20th of September. I’ve done this because while it’s the Prime Minister’s prerogative to decide the date, I believe it is in the country’s best interests to have plenty of notice. It gives the New Zealand public certainty and it allows New Zealanders to make plans for the year.
National will be campaigning on its strong record in Government. Our economy is growing, more jobs are being created. Family incomes are rising. Crime is falling. More elective surgery is being done in public hospitals. Long-term welfare dependency is falling. And we’re continuing to help…………. families and older New Zealanders with generous income support. Those were hard won gains and our National-led Government wants to build on them.
This week I also outlined a plan to hold a public discussion and vote next parliamentary term on New Zealand’s flag. I believe that the design of the current flag symbolises a colonial and post-colonial era whose time has passed.I am proposing that we take one more step in the evolution of modern New Zealand by acknowledging our independence through a new flag. If National is voted back into Government I plan to set up for a cross-party group of MPs to recommend the best referenda process, and a steering group to ensure the public has the opportunity to engage in discussion on the flag and to submit design ideas. It’s really important that consideration of a new flag includes genuine input from New Zealanders. All voices need an opportunity to be heard. But I also want to give a clear assurance and commitment that retaining the current flag is a very possible outcome from the process, and there will be no presumption in favour of a change.
