Fundamentalists And Their Political Clout (Press, 10 September 1985)

In a recent development in New Zealand politics, leaders of moral groups and fundamentalist organisations opposed to liberal legislation are reportedly planning to form a significant political lobby aimed at countering what they perceive as the country's moral decay. This initiative comes at a critical moment as they seek to replace liberal Members of Parliament with representatives aligned with traditional values. Notably, key figures spearheading this movement have been active opponents of the Homosexual Law Reform Bill. Auckland businessman Keith Hay, alongside Sir Peter Tait, has been instrumental in rallying support against the bill, recently chairing a meeting focused on establishing a coalition among conservative church groups and organisations concerned with moral issues. Hay emphasised the need for politicians to heed public sentiment on the issue, arguing that failure to do so could result in their political downfall. The coalition has garnered attention, with commentary suggesting that it could become a powerful conservative force within New Zealand’s political landscape. Labour MP Fran Wilde, who introduced the Homosexual Law Reform Bill, has cautioned her party members about the impending threat from right-wing fundamentalists. The driving force behind the coalition appears to be Joe Simmons, a retired evangelist who has taken the initiative to convene a meeting of representatives from various moral and fundamentalist church groups. These groups include the Concerned Parents’ Association and the Society for the Protection of the Unborn Child, among others. Despite invitations extended to these organisations, some have chosen to remain independent, citing a reluctance to merge under a single banner. Simmons, who advocates for a return to biblical values, expresses concerns regarding a purported "international gay conspiracy" and questions the moral integrity of certain religious leaders who he feels are swayed by humanist ideologies. He prefers to work behind the scenes, focusing on strategy and planning rather than seeking fame. Barry Reed, the media spokesperson for the coalition, has taken a more pragmatic approach, avoiding overt religious rhetoric while confirming growing interest in the coalition efforts. He notes that they have received numerous inquiries, signalling a resonance with the public regarding moral issues. Reed draws parallels to the success of well-organised conservative movements in the United States, specifically Rev. Jerry Falwell’s Moral Majority, and suggests that the coalition in New Zealand could emerge as a potent political entity without necessarily forming a political party. Support for the initiative spans various religious backgrounds, with young families and older generations expressing particular concern about preserving the family unit and addressing moral decline. Hay has mentioned plans to disseminate literature encouraging communities to rally against the perceived moral erosion. The coalition also comes against the backdrop of allegations concerning the financial support of American right-wing figures, which have been disputed by the coalition leaders. Political analysts contemplate the potential implications of a consolidated conservative coalition, predicting it could dramatically reshape New Zealand’s political landscape, especially if they focus their resources on targeting specific MPs and parliamentary seats.

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