Harawira gives proxy vote to Greens
Independent MP Hone Harawira has agreed to have the Green Party cast his vote when he is absent from Parliament.
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Independent MP Hone Harawira has agreed to have the Green Party cast his vote when he is absent from Parliament.
The Tai Tokerau MP quit the Maori Party in February before its national council ruled on a disciplinary committee recommendation to expel him.
He agreed to give his proxy vote to the Maori Party when he left, but has now broken all ties with the party by giving it to the Greens.
Mr Harawira said since most of his votes were aligned with the Greens, the Maori Party asked whether he wanted to transfer it.
"Having spoken with the Greens I am happy to say that we have reached an agreement whereby they cast my votes and ask any questions that have been allocated to me, when I am unable to be in the house."
Independent Chris Carter also gave his proxy vote to the Green Party, after Labour expelled him.
Mr Harawira said the Greens' support meant he did not have to be in the House for every vote, although he would be present for all major bills affecting Maori.
"Those arrangements will mean I can keep on top of my parliamentary responsibilities, as well as spend more time in my electorate, and respond to requests to attend meetings around the country to talk about my political future and the possibility of new party."
A decision on the new party was expected to be made in Auckland on April 30.
NZPA
Thu, 14 Apr 2011
Thu, 14 Apr 2011
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Harawira gives proxy vote to Greens
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