M.P. attacks image of House

Press, 28 September 1984, Page 2

M.P. attacks image of House

By OLIVER RIDDELL in Wellington

The image of Parliament and of politicians came under sharp attack from Mr J. G. Gerard (Nat., Rangiora) during his maiden speech in Parliament. “I believe the image and conduct of Parliament, the hours the House sits, the manner in which it conducts itself, are matters which the public by and large are not impressed by,” he said. As a new member, he could not say that the systems of the House, or the lack of information to members by the Government of the day on such basic matters as sitting dates, did the system any credit “Surely we have grown past the days of dog eat dog,” Mr Gerard said. “I

will support any sensible changes that may be introduced."

Before he had had any thought of entering politics he used to listen with much interest to the broadcast of debates.

He had been struck by the amount of time being spent on personalities and personal interjections which did not help the debate and which the average listeners did not appreciate as being worthy of their Parliamentary representatives. Parliament had to measure up to many new and vital problems. It should try to get away from the personal equation and the party political spirit, and put the country first and party and personalities last, Mr Gerard said.