‘Ageism’ like racism, sexism—Mr Douglas

Press, 1 March 1984, Page 26

‘Ageism’ like racism, sexism—Mr Douglas

PA Wellington Demands that politicians should retire by a certain age have been attacked by ' the chairman of the Planning Council, Mr lan DougMr Douglas told the Wellington branch of the Retired Persons’ Association that those favouring early retirement were pandering to a prejudice that was “ugly and illogical” That prejudice had been termed ‘ageism’ and was every bit as worthy of the community’s attention “as those more readily recognisable prejudices, sexism and racism,” he said.

One of its most visible forms was the widespread attitude towards politicians, he said. “No parliamentarian in this country could contemplate trying to serve beyond the age of 70.” The hostility this would arouse would make life unbearable for him or her, he said. “The pressure, in fact, comes on well before that age. Even while they are in their 50s, some politicians are being subjected to judgments that see them as too old for this or that particular office.” Mr Douglas said he saw

no evidence that the New Zealand approach to the retirement of politicians gave better- government that what other countries with different attitudes enjoyed, “or that we might have if we maintained a tolerant attitude towads political retirement.” “Judgments on whether politicians are capable of remaining in office and on the level at which they serve should be made on qualitative and not arbitrary grounds,” he said. “Their ability to contribute in keeping with the demands of the job is the only valid criterion to use.”