Students Support Human Rights Commission

Friday, 19 October 2007, 9:37 am
Press Release: Otago Polytechnic Student's Association

Students Support Human Rights Commission
Electoral Finance Bill Flawed

The Otago Polytechnic Students' Association (OPSA) supports the aims of the Electoral Finance Bill, but endorses the Human Rights Commission’s comments that the current bill is flawed, and also calls for a re-write.

OPSA supports greater transparency in political advertising, but strongly objects to legislation that limits OPSA’s (and many other bona fide democratic and transparent organisations) freedom of expression on policies and their effects.

“It is essential that parts of the bill that severely limit our right to freedom of expression are removed, specifically those parts that limit us from taking and advocating a position on a proposition. That is our very job to represent our members’ interests.” said Richard Mitchell, OPSA president.

“Further the bill is simply riddled with numerous problems and loop-holes. It will severely limit the voice of many law abiding and democratic organisations, and create opportunities for those willing to and able to exploit them – while failing to stop anonymous donations to political parties.” said Mr Mitchell.

OPSA’s full submission can be found at: www.opsa.org.nz/downloads/EFB.doc

ends

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