Committee decides against reducing number of MPs

A bill to reduce the number of MPs from 120 to 100 has been stopped in its tracks by a parliamentary committee.

The justice and electoral select committee recommended in its report on the bill, released yesterday, not to change the numbers.

The bill will now drop off the agenda when Parliament endorses the report.

New Zealand First MP Barbara Stewart put forward the bill to honour the spirit of the 1999 referendum, which showed high public support for reducing the number of MPs.

The indicative referendum saw 81.5 per cent of voters opt for a reduction, but it was ignored by the Government.

In submissions, supporters claimed Parliament has too many MPs, placing an unnecessary burden on taxpayers.

The MMP political system and list MPs were also criticised by submitters.

The committee found that compared with other countries, New Zealand was not over-represented in parliament.

The committee chairwoman, Labour MP Lynne Pillay, said the adverse reaction to a reduction of MPs would outweigh the perceived benefits.

"The current number of 120 members ensures proportionality and diversity in Parliament and contributes to its effectiveness. The committee considers it essential that these benefits are not compromised."

Mrs Stewart said the decision not to proceed with the bill "highlights the folly of allowing self-interested MPs to make decisions about their future".

She was disappointed, but would continue the fight. "On this issue, Parliament really should have listened to the people."

- NZPA