Autonomy not sensible—M.P.

Press, 12 April 1989, Page 8

Autonomy not sensible—M.P.

By

OLIVER RIDDELL

in Wellington Talk of separation and independence for the Chatham Islands has been discounted by their member of Parliament, Dr Peter Simpson.

He said he understood the concerns of the islanders that their special status be recognised and preserved.

“But the solution arrived at needs to recognise that the Chatham Islands are part of New Zealand. It is not sensible to talk about separation or independence. “Also, I believe that most Chatham Islanders don’t want that,” he said. He was referring to the anger among Chatham island leaders (“The Press,” April 11) at New Zealand’s attitude to them.

The chairman of the Chatham Island County Council, Mr Bunty Preece, had said that if New Zealand did not want them the Chathams did not want to belong to New Zealand.

“If New Zealand won’t look after us and value us then we’ll look around for someone who will,” he said.

Dr Simpson welcomed the review of the Chathams economy and constitutional status announced by the Government. “It would be ludicrous' for me to try to pre-judge the outcome of the review,” he said.

A modified relationship between New Zealand and the Chathams was desirable and the review just announced could achieve that.

The issue was a satisfactory deal for both the Chathams and New Zealand. The review was an opportunity to achieve that. It would not moulder in a drawer but should lead to practical recommendations for the changes needed on the Chathams, he said.

The present situation was not satisfactory to either partner. The review ought to be able to retain the Chathams as a valuable and valued part of New Zealand. “Its remoteness and smallness means that the Chathams Island group is a special case,” Dr Simpson said. “It is our only populated remote offshore island and it does have special status. “I hope it follows from the review that this special status is recognised and strengthened.”’