Appetite For a Longer Parliamentary Term Recognised By Constitutional Panel

Maxim Institute welcomes the release of the Constitutional Advisory Panel’s Report on New Zealand’s Constitution Conversation, particularly as it addresses the issue of New Zealand's parliamentary term length. 

The Panel’s report notes a reasonable level of support for a longer parliamentary term, and recommends a process of public consultation be set up to explore both additional mechanisms to improve law-making and accountability, and a fixed election date. 

“It’s great to see the Panel recognise the significant groundswell of support for a four-year parliamentary term in New Zealand,” says Maxim Institute researcher Kieran Madden, “it’s now time for the Government to get serious and take the next step.”

Maxim Institute’s Submission (attached) to the Constitution Conversation recommended a fixed, four year term, enacted through a referendum. 

“The panel is right to be concerned about law-making and accountability in New Zealand” says Kieran Madden, “however evidence suggests that MMP already does a good job dispersing executive power, limiting the prospect of misuse of public power, and shoring up the law-making process allowing authorities to govern better.”

“If we are to move towards a healthier democracy, a four-year, fixed term is the way to go,” says Mr Madden, adding that “the Government should act on the Panel’s recommendations—it is time for New Zealanders to have the opportunity to seriously consider legislative reform to extend our parliamentary term.”

Parliamentary_Term_submission__Maxim_Institute.pdf

CAP_Report_Conversation1.pdf

ENDS

© Scoop Media