By VERNON SMALL
Act leader Richard Prebble has launched a "new agenda" with a strong emphasis on core policy beliefs as his party tries to sail out of the political doldrums.
In a speech to the party's Auckland divisional conference, Mr Prebble said Act would emphasise freedom, uphold the rule of law,
protect property rights, expand choice and ensure people accepted responsibility for their actions.
The rethink follows soul-searching at a three-day caucus retreat in Nelson last week. The leadership has come under fire from members for pushing populist bandwagons, with critics pointing to sliding poll ratings since the election.
Mr Prebble said he did not share some supporters' anguish at National being the main winner from Act's opposition to ACC changes, the Employment Relations Act and the increase to the top tax rate.
"We need the centre right to win the election and I welcome National's rise in the polls," he said.
As part of its emphasis on policy, Act will unveil a fresh approach to accident compensation this month and an alternative economic policy in the New Year.
It would also introduce a string of members' bills aimed at changing the Resource Management Act.
"It's our issue. It illustrates all of Act's values: freedom, choice, personal responsibility, sanctity of contract, and protection of property rights."
Also a priority was a bill promoted by MP Stephen Franks to ensure that criminals who offend while on parole are returned to jail to complete their sentences, Mr Prebble said.
Act would have another nine draft laws in Parliament's next ballot for members' bills.
"Top of the list is my Full, Fair and Final Waitangi Settlement Bill, another issue where Act is the voice of middle New Zealand."
Mr Prebble's bill would outline a plan to "generously settle the genuine grievances and then close down the grievance industry."
Act's position on superannuation would be released this week, after Finance Minister Dr Michael Cullen had been told of it.
Mr Prebble said he welcomed Dr Cullen's plan for a partial pre-funding of baby boomers, because there was a real problem.
Act had questioned the figures and the proposal, but saw pensions as a way of emphasising the party's vision that all New Zealanders should own a share of the country.
It appreciated that its support could be crucial for passing any superannuation policy through Parliament.
By VERNON SMALL
Act leader Richard Prebble has launched a "new agenda" with a strong emphasis on core policy beliefs as his party tries to sail out of the political doldrums.
In a speech to the party's Auckland divisional conference, Mr Prebble said Act would emphasise freedom, uphold the rule of law,
AdvertisementAdvertise with NZME.