Raglan M.p. Disillusioned (Press, 28 September 1976)

On 28 September 1976, there were speculations surrounding New Zealand Member of Parliament Marilyn Waring, the youngest woman to be elected to Parliament at just 23 years old. Reports indicated that she might be considering resigning from her position as the MP for Raglan. Waring denied any immediate plans to resign but stated that she was keeping her career options open. In a recent address, Waring expressed her growing disillusionment and frustration with the political system, advocating for reforms in both Parliament and its policy-making procedures. She shared her feelings of cynicism and hopelessness regarding the political landscape, indicating that she sometimes felt more fulfilled in her previous role as a political researcher than as an MP. The chairman of the Raglan electorate, Peter Hamilton, asserted that Waring faced no pressure to resign from her party and that her attitude towards her work had not changed. Despite Waring's struggles, internal sources within the party noted that she was likely to face challengers for her seat in the upcoming 1978 General Election. These challenges were attributed to a mix of her recent personal controversies and her opposition to the Health Amendment Bill, which sought to impose restrictions on abortion. While Waring was also working part-time as a lecturer at Victoria University, party sources speculated that her current feelings of depression were likely to be temporary. They expressed confidence that she would continue to fight diligently for her position. Waring underscored her commitment to her role by stating that MPs have a finite term, indicating that the outcome of her tenure ultimately relied on the electorate's decision. In her address to the Taumarunui Women’s Club, Waring raised critical questions about the effectiveness of a politically partisan government and its impact on long-term decision-making for New Zealand. She articulated a strong belief that reform in Parliament and its decision-making processes was essential for the future wellbeing of the nation. Waring's remarks highlighted her concerns about the focus on short-term political expediency rather than long-term stability and common sense in governance. With her strong convictions and commitment to improving women's representation in Parliament, Waring affirmed her intent to remain within the political arena, advocating for significant reforms and expressing a desire to contribute to change from her position as an MP.

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