Scoop's Meet The MPs Project:
Denise Garland Talks To Labour's Chris Hipkins
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Scoop's Meet The MPs Project: Labour MP and Rimutaka representative Chris Hipkins talks to Denise Garland about his political life and aspirations.
He discusses how he got into politics and then into Parliament, and what he thinks of life as an MP one year into the
job.
Mr Hipkins identifies his political role models, both recent politicians and a few historical figures, and explains why
people like Robert Muldoon are important to New Zealand’s political landscape.
Finally, Mr Hipkins explains what he hopes to achieve as an MP and the real reason he got into politics – to improve New
Zealand’s social services, particularly around education.
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Q And A
1. What is your view on the decision taken by the Government in relation to the smacking referendum in terms of what it
says about NZ democracy?
I think it highlights how complex issues can become very confused when people resort to simplistic slogans rather than
reasoned argument. I think the government is taking a sensible approach that recognises that good parents don’t want to
feel like criminals for lightly smacking their children but nor do we want to create a loop hole that would allow those
who thrash their kids to get off the hook.
2. What is your view on the merits of MMP vs FPP? Should there be another referendum on the subject and what is your
preferred outcome?
I think MMP has led to greater diversity in parliament and has made the government of the day more accountable. The
government can no longer ram through whatever legislation they want to without reference to the smaller parties and I
think that’s a good thing. I would like to see a greater number of electorate MPs because I think MMP electorates are
pretty big and can be really difficult to serve effectively. I’m relaxed about another referendum. I would vote to
retain MMP.
3. Name a dream team of seven members of Parliament - people who you think exemplify how an MP should conduct
him/herself. Your list of seven can only include three members of your own party.
I would happily have any Labour MPs in my dream team, but I particularly admire David Parker, Maryan Street and Kelvin
Davis. I’ve developed a good rapport with some of the Greens and I particularly admire Jeanette Fitzsimons, Kevin Hague
and Sue Bradford.
Denise Garland is a journalism student at Massey University
ENDS