4 May 2004

Hon Matt Robson MP, Progressive Deputy Leader

Immigrant bashing by National for short term political gain

“National’s Wayne Mapp is intentionally creating an atmosphere of panic and intolerance with his attacks on the Refugee Status Appeals Authority and the Deportation Tribunal. These two bodies are impartial and make a decision – to recognise an applicant as a refugee, or to deport an applicant - after hearing the facts,” said Matt Robson MP, Progressive Deputy Leader.

“Beguiled by the temptation of easy votes that NZ First has garnered with immigrant and refugee bashing, National spokesperson Wayne Mapp demands that the Tribunal lose its discretionary power. That is ridiculous and begs the question of why have such tribunals if they cannot weigh the evidence.

“Instead of attacking the people to whom we give the difficult decisions National, if it supports a rule-based justice system, should allow them to make their decisions in a rational manner and without political interference. The rule of law must apply in our courts and tribunals” said Mr Robson.

ENDS

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