PRESS RELEASE

For Immediate Release

Friday October 15, 1999

Red Faces at Christchurch City Council

There are some red faces at the Christchurch City Council.

The Labour dominated Council is considering withdrawing a "Youth Info Pack" which has recently been produced by the Christchurch Youth Council because it has an advertisement "Vote National".

National MP Alec Neill a Member of the National Campaign Team, today confirmed that in September 1999 the National Party contracted with the City Council to advertise in the "Youth Info Pack".

"The Christchurch City Council contacted us in early August offering us the opportunity to advertise in the Youth Pack Publication. We took up that opportunity and signed an Advertising Contract. We understand Labour had the same opportunity but refused. Now that the publication is available for distribution , the Labour Party is seeing red not blue, and calling in favour from their mates in Council to stop distribution. We have a contract with the Christchurch City Council but Labour have shown on the West Coast Logging issue that contracts means nothing in their Society. They want the publication to be stopped."

It is understood that Christchurch City Council Youth Advocate Robyn Moore, received complaints from senior Labour officials complaining about the National Add and she has circulated all councilors indicating her regret that the advertisement was included.

"Unfortunately the Booklet includes an advertisement paid for by the National Party, and stating "vote National."It is regrettable that the advertisement was included."

Alec Neill said today that his party expects the Council to honour its contract and for the Youth Info Pack to be distributed. "As usual, Labour has missed the Boat." Mr Neill said.

Enquiries for a Youth Pack from a Christchurch City Council Service Centre revealed that the pack has not been released yet as the Service Centres have been advised that there is political advertising in the pack and they have been instructed by letter to withhold distribution until the issue has been clarified.

End

Contact: Alec Neill MP (025) 403 731

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