15 December 2005

Peters Declares The Law On Expenditure Now Void

The Rt Hon Winston Peters has said that he is disappointed with the Judges' findings in relation to the electoral petition for the seat of Tauranga, as there now appear to be no rules to limit candidate expenditure.

"This development means that we have taken the first steps down the slippery slope of US style politics in which wealthy candidates are able to buy their way into politics.

"I commenced my action because, like others, I believed that there was gross over expenditure in this case and that intent of our electoral law was that there were stipulated spending limits.

"This decision highlights in neon lights that there are no laws forbidding overspending.

"I will be discussing this decision with my lawyers, with particular reference to statutory amendments that ensure that the now evident void in our electoral law is filled well before the 2008 election.

"I remain committed to upholding the principles of democracy and in no way regret bringing this case. My only hope is that the necessary changes can be made to our electoral law to prevent this farce from ever occurring again. The legitimacy of our democracy depends on it", said Mr Peters.

ENDS

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