Maori role in Parliament questioned

Gerry Brownlee

The increasing influence of Maori in Parliament is expected to be highlighted in a speech by National's Gerry Brownlee today.

Mr Brownlee is addressing his party's northern regional conference this afternoon.

The party's Maori Affairs spokesman believes the number of Maori seats in Parliament will increase by up to three.

Mr Brownlee believes the Maori Party is here to stay and is expected to call for a constitutional debate with the possibility of the size of Parliament being cut from 120 to 99 MPs.

That would mean Maori, if Mr Brownlee's scenario is right, would have greater clout.

But that clout, in terms of dedicated seats, would not be allowed to last with National.

Convinced it will be the Government after the next election, it is promising to scrap the Maori seats.

- NEWSTALK ZB