Tony Steel

Opposition Corrections Spokesperson

24 May 2000

Robson wants more rights for criminals

Rather than being tougher on criminals, Corrections Minister Matt Robson is determined to make our prisons the most liberal in the world, says Opposition Corrections spokesman Tony Steel.

"Matt Robson is calling for prisoners to have conjugal visits and for children under five to be allowed to live with their parent in prison.

"Victims of crime will find it repugnant that our prisons may become taxpayer funded boarding hostels and honeymoon suites.

"In line with the Government's current position on relationships surely the conjugal visits will be extended not only to spouses, but to de facto and same sex couples.

"Prisoner contact with their children should be encouraged, but having children living in prisons is another matter. Children should not become comfortable living behind bars.

"Mr Robson's comments are a slap in the face to the 90% of New Zealanders who voted for tougher sentences," Mr Steel said.

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