April 10th 2000

Media Release

MORE HEAT THAN LIGHT IN UNDER 25 STICKER DEBATE

Christchurch Central MP Tim Barnett has called for a focus on the facts in the ongoing debate over the Under 25 stickers. He believes that the accusations and counter accusations concerning the scheme run real risk of by-passing some vital and worrying facts which have emerged. Tim Barnett welcomes the decision of the Human Rights Commission and the Police to examine the scheme.

Tim Barnett said:

"Three aspects of this issue are of critical importance."

"First, I believe car owners under 25 are at least as likely to be victims of car theft. Why has so much energy been put into a scheme that will have the effect of making those car owners more vulnerable to car theft."

"Second, why are the New Zealand Police importing schemes from abroad and piloting them without an initial human rights audit. From the start of 2000, all government policies and practices should be in line with the Human Rights Act. The Police should not have allowed this to slip by.

"Third, the voice of young people is being sidelined in this debate. All the under 25 year olds I know are annoyed by this scheme and want it changed or stopped. If we want a youth friendly society, we must be able to look at things from their viewpoint.

ENDS

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