Maori Party over-represented in current House – Sir Douglas Graham

Sir Douglas Graham says there should at some stage be a rethink about whether Maori seats are needed under MMP. Photo / Sarah Ivey

Former Justice Minister Sir Douglas Graham says the Maori seats have historically ensured a Maori voice in Parliament, but there should eventually be a rethink about whether they are needed under MMP.

In a speech as part of the Distinguished Alumni Speaker Series at Auckland University this afternoon, Sir Douglas said he believes the seats are worth keeping for now, but they should be re-examined after a few more electoral cycles.

He says in six or nine years, the Maori Party could be well ensconced and Maori themselves may say it is time to let go of the seats.

Sir Douglas says because of the way MMP works, the Maori Party is actually over-represented in the current House.

- NEWSTALK ZB