4 May 2004
Hon Matt Robson MP, Progressive Deputy Leader
Immigrant bashing by National for short term political gain
“National’s Wayne Mapp is intentionally creating an atmosphere of panic and intolerance with his attacks on the Refugee
Status Appeals Authority and the Deportation Tribunal. These two bodies are impartial and make a decision – to recognise
an applicant as a refugee, or to deport an applicant - after hearing the facts,” said Matt Robson MP, Progressive Deputy
Leader.
“Beguiled by the temptation of easy votes that NZ First has garnered with immigrant and refugee bashing, National
spokesperson Wayne Mapp demands that the Tribunal lose its discretionary power. That is ridiculous and begs the question
of why have such tribunals if they cannot weigh the evidence.
“Instead of attacking the people to whom we give the difficult decisions National, if it supports a rule-based justice
system, should allow them to make their decisions in a rational manner and without political interference. The rule of
law must apply in our courts and tribunals” said Mr Robson.
ENDS