General Election

Press, 4 December 1981, Page 12

General Election

Sir,—Until all the special and overseas votes are counted, the final outcome of the election hangs in the balance. But why do politicians insist on referring to a "hung” Parliament? Rather it would seem that once again people have elected the possibility of a true democracy and could have government by Parliament in preference to government by caucus. However, it would appear that for too long our politicans have been brought up under the influence of enforcing their egotistical power trip (and hence possible mismanagement) upon others from the safety of a so-called majority put into power by a minority of voters. Furthermore it would appear that very few politicians could handle the responsibility of a truly democratic government. No secret government department reports to one party — all reports to all sides. If a reelection is called for, a no confidence vote would appear to be the only alternative left.—Yours, etc., D. G. CRAIB. Hokitika. December 2, 1981. Sir,—Don’t the people of Invercargill, Clutha, Waitaki, Selwyn, Fendalton, Rangiora, and Marlborough want reasonably priced electricity, fair taxes, more jobs, reduced inflation, real economic growth, democratic consensus government, a unified society, international respect, protection from multi-nationals, an economic Lyttelton ferry, open government. regional development, reduced south-north freight costs, upgraded railways, improved provincial air services, realistic industrial relations, constructive leadership, restoration of commercial competition, an attack on price fixing rings, a revamped housing industry, effective control over interest rates, an independent foreign policy, a rational education policy, and most of all a five year programme for economic recovery with clear priorities, achievable targets and a real determination to obtain them? The people of these electorates could have changed the government to achieve these objectives. .Instead, too many of them chose to shake their voting fist at tour protesters or to cast waste votes for the trendv Socreds.—Yours, etc. ' D. J. O'ROURKE. December 2, 1981.