10 February 2005
Peters' Treaty Principles Bill Before House
Parliament now has a chance to remove the foolishness of the so-called “principles of the Treaty” from all legislation
and derail the Treaty gravy train forever, says New Zealand First leader, Rt Hon Winston Peters.
Mr Peters was responding to the news today that his private members bill aimed at removing Treaty “principles” from the
statute books had been drawn from the ballot and would be debated in the House.
“While some politicians make noises about these Treaty “principles” we have actually done the one thing which was
required – we drafted a Bill which will see them removed.
“No longer will New Zealanders have to deal with the uncertainty and disquiet that these principles have created.
“This is truly a great day for everyone as it is the beginning of a process which will see them freed from this highly
expensive shackle of political correctness. “
Mr Peters appealed to all MPs to cast aside their differences and show they are prepared to create a society in which
one rule of law applies equally to all.
“The chance has arrived to derail the Treaty gravy train and to end the grievance industry. This year could be
remembered as the time New Zealanders decided they were truly one, unified people.
“This will not disadvantage Maori. It will lift the shroud of the past from their shoulders and free them to face the
future.
“The only groups to miss out will be the malcontents and the Treaty travellers whose trotters will be out of the public
trough,” said Mr Peters.
ENDS