Wednesday, April 28, 2004
There is no honour in abstaining
My Right suspects that the Labour party thinkers are still trying to find a way to get Tariana Turia and Nanaia Mahuta to abstain from, rather than vote against the proposed Seabed and Foreshore legislation - to save face and to save a by election. But with statements like the one below - is there any room for that? I have said before, that disagree with her as much as I might, if she falls on her sword I will certainly respect her for that.
There will be much wailing and nashing of teeth here if they 'politic' there way out of a stand so staunch;
"I have heard the consistent call in my electorate – from Tirau to Tawa - to oppose the Bill and put forward their views to my colleagues. I have advised the Prime Minister, as directed by my constituency, of the clear opposition to the Bill from the people of Te Tai Hauauru.
I believe that in putting forward this view, I have done nothing wrong. However I do accept the doctrine of collective Cabinet responsibility.
The caucus has today given me and Nanaia Mahuta leave not to support the legislation. I appreciate the respect the Prime Minister has shown us, and the sincere efforts she and senior Ministers have made to accommodate the diverse opinions within the caucus."
