Green MP drops bill to lower voting age

Sue Bradford

Green MP Sue Bradford has decided not to go ahead with a member's bill seeking to give 16- and 17-year-olds the vote.

The proposal got widespread media attention but Ms Bradford said it lacked support.

"Since June 21 when I first mooted the Civics Education and Voting Age Bill, I have listened to public debate and realise the time is not right for success on voting age initiatives.'

She said she remained passionate about it, but thought a long term public discussion and education programme was needed before it had any chance in Parliament.

But Ms Bradford has drafted a new bill - the Social Security (Benefit Review and Appeal Reform) Amendment Bill.

Ms Bradford said a July 19 Supreme Court decision diminished the right of beneficiaries to get prompt and fair review hearings.

It could take six months for a beneficiary to get an independent judicial review of a Social Development Ministry decision. Her bill sought to change that.

Member's bills are drawn for a ballot and get read on member's nights - every second Wednesday Parliament sits.

- NZPA