Phoney Policies
Does the National party actually have any real policies? We are beginning to wonder. Aside from taking a hatchet to anything that Labour has introduced, and banning, cutting and scrapping a wide range of entitlements, have they actually got anything remotely original?
So far, all I'm hearing are platitudes and Trumpisms.
Perhaps they don't want an informed electorate (they might see through them) but instead want to force people to vote on sentiment alone. We are still waiting to hear how they intend to fund their much touted tax cuts. Despite the fact that the same scenario was hastily withdrawn by the Tories in the UK last year, on the grounds that it would engender financial collapse, the Nats are pressing ahead with it. In the absence of any details we can only assume the worst. That it will come out of vote Education, Health and Social Welfare, putting more money in the pockets of people who are already wealthy and increasing inequalities, poverty, poor health and all the crime and substance dependence that goes with it.
As for banning cellphones. Our view is that schools are more than capable of setting their own policies regarding cell phone use at school. They don't need the government telling them what to do. There are more pressing issues in the teaching sector. And teachers will not be looking forward to teaching a class with hungry children if National removes the food in schools program as stated. Its a lose-lose situation.
Poll: Do you think banning gang patches is reasonable?
With the government cracking down on gangs, it is now illegal for gang members to display their insignia in public places whether through clothing or their property.
This means arrests can be made if these patches are worn in places like restaurants, shops, on public transport or ferries, and on airplanes. Arrests were made recently at a funeral.
Do you think this ban is reasonable?
-
76.6% Yes
-
22.1% No
-
1.4% Other - I'll share below
What's your favourite recipe for courgettes?
Kia ora neighbours. If you've got a family recipe for courgettes, we'd love to see it and maybe publish it in our magazine. Send your recipe to mailbox@nzgardener.co.nz, and if we use it in the mag, you will receive a free copy of our January 2025 issue.