30 March 2005

Hon Matt Robson MP, Progressive Deputy Leader

MMP comes of age – first coalition government to run full term

The record 965 days in office marked by the Labour-Progressive government today, and confirmation the coalition will be the first since the advent of MMP to run its full term, means our proportional representation voting system has "come of age," says Progressive MP Matt Robson.

"MMP is at last working as it should and for the benefit of all New Zealanders.

"The voting record since the last general election confirms that, on the overwhelming majority of the minority government's legislation, we have managed to build very broad-based Parliamentary majorities to advance the welfare of New Zealand.

"Our record couldn't be more different than the embarrassing performance of the right-wing parties of ACT, NZ First and National who are engulfed in a vicious civil war.

"They can't even co-operate with each other when they are in Opposition without any of the responsibilities or pressures of government," Matt Robson said.

The table below shows that the overwhelming majority of Labour-Progressive legislation has enjoyed the support of more than one Opposition party, even though in reality government legislation only requires one opposition party's support to be successful.

ENDS

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