Wednesday, 10 August 2005
Constitutional committee reports back
Parliament's constitutional arrangements select committee is recommending an extensive public education and school
civics education programme before any significant changes are made to New Zealand's constitutional a arrangements.
The committee also says there should be specific processes for facilitating discussions within Maori communities on
constitutional issues.
Committee chairman, United Future leader Peter Dunne said the committee, noting New Zealand's strong tradition of
dealing with constitutional changes through a process of pragmatic evolution over time, had not rushed to judgement in
favour of any form of particular constitutional arrangement.
"We have recommended that Parliament establish a special, non-partisan, select committee to consider constitutional
issues as they may arise in the course of Parliament's work.
"And we have also recommended that the Government consider setting up an independent Constitution Institute to provide
good information to the public and foster understanding of New Zealand's current constitutional arrangements."
The full report can be viewed at: www.clerk.parliament.govt.nz/publications/committeereport/default.htm
ENDS