PRESS RELEASE
2 November 1999
Nick Barber
Employment Spokesperson
LEADERS' DEBATE
It was interesting to note that once again the 400% increase in Violent Crime in the last 20 years (7400% increase in
robberies since 1948 - NZ Yearbooks) was ignored by all five political leaders in the Leaders' Debate (Holmes Show last
night).
One would think that by now each party would have found a positive strategy for the employment of our untrained and idle
youth. While the student loans issue has gained attention, it is a sideshow compared to the increasing number of people
across the employment spectrum who have been unable to get skills and workplace training during their youth.
Perhaps the strong correlation between dysfunctional families and violent crime is the real cause of this political
silence. Too many MPs from all parties have failed to hold their own families together and would be embarrassed by a
focus on violent crime and the effects of family disruption.
Contact: Mr Nick Barber in Nelson, (03) 548 7558 or
Party Leader Graham Capill (021) 661 766