Garrett Challenges Givens To Debate
Garrett Challenges Givens To Debate
I categorically deny any claim that I was offered an opportunity to debate 'Three Strikes' with US anti-Three Strikes campaigner Rev Ron Givens – in fact, it was I who challenged him but received no response, ACT New Zealand Justice Spokesman David Garrett said
"During Givens' visit to New Zealand, I offered to debate 'Three Strikes' with him anywhere in the country whenever he wished – an offer he was clearly reluctant to take up," Mr Garrett said.
"Givens toured the country making many claims about California's Three Strikes – one of which was that there had been no reduction in crime in any category since its implementation in 1994. This claim is completely false and the reality is none of his arguments against Three Strikes were supported by facts – either he deliberately set out to mislead the New Zealand public or was simply ignorant of the facts.
"Givens should not use his return to California as an excuse to flee debate on this issue. I am more than happy to debate him by phone on any radio station and challenge him to take up my offer – I'll even pay for the call myself," Mr Garrett said.
ENDS