INDEPENDENT NEWS

Maori support likely for Privy Council change

Published: Thu 13 Apr 2000 09:43 AM
Georgina te Heuheu
Opposition Maori Affairs spokesperson
12 April 2000
Maori support likely for Privy Council change
Maori are likely to support New Zealand letting go of the Privy Council, says National's Maori Affairs spokeswoman Georgina te Heuheu.
"However, Maori would expect to participate in discussions preceding such a major change.
"In my discussions and meetings with Maori, I have noticed a greater willingness to talk about the issue. Maori would welcome an opportunity to engage with the government on the possibility of a replacement for the Privy Council.
"It is important for our shared future that major change occurs in an inclusive and planned manner," she says.
Mrs te Heuheu noted that Maori had long valued the appeal provisions to the Privy Council. This was not surprising since the majority of their appeals had involved actions against the government.
"Maori have valued the symbolism of the link to the Monarch, and the perceived level of independence afforded by a Court removed from New Zealand.
"Like many others, Maori expect to discuss these issues with the Attorney General before any major change occurs. I intend to seek a meeting with the Attorney General on behalf of Maori to start the discussions," Mrs te Heuheu said.
Ends

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