11 NOVEMBER 2015

Armistice Day Motion Blocked By National’s Simon Bridges

The National Party has blocked a non-debatable motion marking Armistice Day, on the last parliamentary sitting day that it falls upon during WW1’s centennial.

“Refusing a motion marking Armistice Day is a shameful indictment about what Deputy Leader of the House Simon Bridges and this National Party truly think of those who fought,” New Zealand First Deputy Leader and Spokesperson for Defence Ron Mark said.

“Today happens to be the last Armistice Day during the centennial of WW1, which corresponds with a scheduled sitting of Parliament. It is why we wanted to move this motion because there will never be another chance.

“As National Party MP’s look up around the Debating Chamber, we hope they take note of the battle honours. They’re there for more than decoration. They honour the memory of all New Zealanders who served and died in the Great War.

“MP’s in the Parliaments of Britain, Canada and even Australia, wear poppies leading up to the day which ended the Great War 97 years ago. Prime Minister John Keys National Party do not care as shown by its callous disregard for the flag and this motion.

“It is why we suggest Mr Bridges and Mr Key acquaint themselves with the third stanza of John McCrae's poignantIn Flanders Fields. Especially the words about breaking faith,” Mr Mark said.

Ron Mark’s motion refused by the National Party:

“That this House marks the 97th Armistice Day on the final scheduled sitting day during the centennial of World War One, in which this House can mark Armistice Day on the date it falls, thereby honouring New Zealand’s sacrifice in the Great War signified by the battle honours above this Chamber.”

For more about Parliamentarians and the Great War, click here.

ENDS

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