Canvassing and computers

Press, 5 December 1978, Page 18

Canvassing and computers

Sir, —1 read in a weekly give-away paper that the . Labour Party in Papanui had “computer print-outs of supporters and swingers who had not yet voted by certain cut-off times.” On polling day our household was approached by a person wearing a red ribbon. The question was asked: “I’ve come to see if you’ve voted for our Mike?” When the canvasser was informed our votes had been cast we were told: “I’ve got you on our list of supporters.” Who makes up this list and where do they get information of how a person has previously voted, or is a supporter or swinging voter? I was under the impression a person’s ballot was confidential. The sooner it is illegal for parties and their supporters to knock on doors, encouraging people to vote on polling day the better.— Yours, etc., A. J. MACDONALD. November 28, 1978. [Mr Brian Arps, Canterbury regional secretary of the Labour Party, replies: “Labour Party workers on election day are seeking to maximise the number of people who have cast a valid vote. We offer to assist people by providing transport to the polls or if needed by giving them a special vote. As our resources are not limitless we try to concentrate on people who have not yet voted. Also, as we are trying to win an election we concentrate on our own supporters. Whether or not a person is treated as a supporter depends upon a subjective judgment of the party’s canvasser earlier in I the year. The use of a com- ■ putor was necessitated by I the difficulties experienced ensuring every person who was entitled was on the roll. None of this assistance affects the confidentiality of the person’s ballot.”]