7. CHESTER BORROWS (National—Whanganui) Link to this
to the Minister of Justice
What is the proposed question format for the upcoming referendum on MMP?
Hon SIMON POWER (Minister of Justice) Link to this
The first question at this stage is to ask voters whether they wish to retain MMP or change to a different system. The second question will ask voters, irrespective of how they voted on the first question, what their preferred alternative system is from four options, those being first past the post, preferential voting, the supplementary-member representation system, or the single transferable vote system.
Yes. I will be introducing a bill in the next month or so that provides for a referendum to be held. I am pleased to say that agreement has been reached that a special all-party select committee will be established to consider this legislation as well as the reforms that are being proposed in the electoral finance rules area. Both bills, if it is the wish of Parliament, will receive the normal 6-month consideration by the committee, which I hope will allow the public and political parties to make submissions on these important matters.