Social Credit Law Reform (Press, 3 July 1984)

On 3 July 1984, Social Credit leader Mr Beetham outlined the party's law reform policy in Wellington, which encompasses several progressive changes across various legal and social domains. A key aspect of the policy is the promotion of equal pay and job promotion opportunities for both men and women. Mr Beetham proposed that all legislation related to equal opportunity should be consolidated into a singular code for clarity and effectiveness. In a significant move towards sexual equality, the party intends to repeal laws that prohibit homosexual activity between consenting adults in private, demonstrating a commitment to advancing LGBTQ+ rights. Additionally, the policy includes the introduction of a Bill of Rights aimed at limiting the power of central government while safeguarding individual rights. The reform package also addresses issues related to national security and judicial oversight. Specifically, it calls for amendments to the New Zealand Security Intelligence Service Amendment Act of 1977. Proposed changes would involve transferring the authority to issue interception warrants to the Chief Justice and imposing a time limit of no more than 90 days on such warrants. In terms of electoral reform, Social Credit plans to abolish the Boundaries Commission and replace it with an independent Elections and Polls Commission. This independent body would oversee the redrawing of electoral boundaries, ensuring that the process remains free from political interference and manipulation. The party’s policy further prioritises the rehabilitation of prisoners, advocating for the allocation of necessary resources to the prison service. To support this initiative, Social Credit intends to appoint additional welfare officers within courts and prisons, expand home leave provisions, and enhance pre-release hostel facilities. Further changes proposed in the legal system include a review of the legal aid service and the expansion of the neighbourhood law office network to improve access to legal resources for the general public. Additionally, a regulatory code governing the practice and procedures of administrative law tribunals is proposed, along with a right of appeal from all tribunals to the High Court, ensuring fairness and accountability within the judicial process. Overall, Social Credit's law reform policy reflects a comprehensive approach aimed at enhancing social equality, individual rights, judicial independence, and the rehabilitation of offenders in New Zealand.

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