M.P. issues warning on amalgamation

Press, 16 July 1986, Page 9

M.P. issues warning on amalgamation

A vote for Labour is a vote for amalgamation. If Labour wins next year’s General Election Waimariri “is history,” the National member of Parliament for Fendalton, Mr Philip Burdon, told Waimairi and Riccarton ratepayers last evening. Mr Burdon told a public meeting in Bishopdale on amalgamation that Labour politicians did not believe amalgamation was a signficant issue. They did not believe people felt strongly enough about it to change their vote. People had to make

known to their members of Parliament that they did feel strongly. If the politicians believed the issue could lose them votes — and power — if mergers were forced through, action would be taken, Mr Burdon said. A National Government would repeal the Local Government Amendment Act and abolish the Local Government Commission, Mr Burdon nromispd “I reiterate — Labour does not feel it is an important issue. That is why Margaret Austin, Mike Moore and Ann Hercus have been advocates of amalgamations. They are not aware it could cost them votes. Margaret Austin says she has not had any letters from people. Write to her. It is a political issue. Make the politicians know how you feel and make them take a stand,” Mr Burdon said.

Mrs Margaret Murray, and Crs lan Calvert, Ralph Skjellerup and Des King, of Waimairi, called on those present to take part in activities to publicise anti-amalgamation arguments and to influence opinion on the issue.