Two Ticks For Brash Bill

Rodney Hide
Monday, 29 May 2006
Press Releases - Governance & Constitution

Rodney Hide says that ACT will support Don Brash's Bill enabling National to pay broadcasters $112,500 for election advertising, and is inviting the Labour Party to repay taxpayers' money used to produce Labour's pledge card.

"Broadcasters should not be left out of pocket because of the National Party's mistake", Mr Hide said.

"ACT will support Don Brash's Bill, allowing National to repay the money they owe, because it is the only way for the National Party to settle its debt.

"I also invite Helen Clark to listen to the still, small voice of conscience and consider repaying the $446,815 of Parliamentary Leader's Office funding which the Electoral Commission included in Labour's return of election expenses.

"A police investigation found sufficient evidence to establish a prima facie case that taxpayer funding for a Labour Party pledge card and leaflet could count as election spending under Section 221 of the Electoral Act.

"The Labour Party can pay this money back to Parliamentary Services without changing the law, and they should do so immediately", Mr Hide said.

ENDS

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