7 March 2005

Mark Welcomes Police Act Review

New Zealand First law and order spokesperson Ron Mark has welcomed the Governments decision to abandon the Police Amendment Bill (No. 2) and completely review the Police Act.

"New legislation for Police needs to reflect modern policing practice. Our Police are facing a number of pressures on the frontline. New crimes and emerging security threats bring with them a need for more rational resource and deployment planning," said Mr Mark.

"Better use of forensic tools and greater flexibility in the deployment of Police are important parts of the modern fight against crime. Deploying officers to areas of need as quickly as possible, at any time of the day or night, and ensuring 24/7 cover in our communities is something the public rightfully expects.

"With 1,000 new Police being added to the front line over the next three years, it is important that clear guidelines for policing practice and governance are set in place so that Police officers are aware of their conditions of service, their powers to do the job and their code of conduct.

"New Zealand First will support this review, so long as it means better response to the community and that our Police are better equipped to fight crime," said Mr Mark.

ENDS

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