We all know that either National or Labour will be leading a coalition government come September.
And we all know that this time 'round, there's a distinct ideological difference between the parties.
With Labour, it's tax as usual and social spending and an emphasis on diversity; with National, it's lower
taxes, individual spending and a focus on mainstream New Zealanders - whoever the hell they are. But the smaller parties could well be punching above their weight come September 17.
Neither Labour nor National wants to be cooling their heels on the Opposition benches, so chances are the smaller parties will be in a good position to get their key policies assimilated into the Government's portfolio of legislation. Which makes it important for voters to know just what the minor parties consider to be their non-negotiable defining policies.
And which is why TV3 can't be considered to be a responsible broadcaster in refusing to allow Peter Dunne air time as leader of United Future. The reasons given by TV3's editors are specious. If it was down to the polls, then Act shouldn't be there either. I can understand Peter Dunne's well-mannered, moderate anger. He was the big winner last time in the court of public opinion.
Of course it's difficult to get eight leaders around a table and give them any meaningful airtime. So split the debate: give Labour and National their own show, and the six other leaders get to debate at another time. Or come up with another idea.
Nobody said MMP was an easy format to work with, but it's our system of government for now and you have to go with what you've got. If TV3 can't cover the election responsibly maybe they should do away with the coverage altogether.
They aren't the state broadcaster. They don't have to have boring old suits in a gabfest on their crazy, out-there station.
Perhaps they should just stick with what they do best and bung on another reality car-chase show.
Their demographic will love them for it.
- HERALD ON SUNDAY
