Travel, so the proverb goes, broadens the mind. And never has a breadth of knowledge been more important than in this, the age of globalisation. We all have an increasing amount to wrap our minds around. Few, however, need to know more about the workings of the world, and their relation to New Zealand, than our parliamentary representatives. So a tour of South America and the United States is a worthy way for Parliament's Speaker and a group of MPs to spend a recess.
Unfortunately, the MPs have managed, even if unwittingly, to undermine that conclusion. When the Speaker's office refused requests for a copy of the group's itinerary, it could only raise suspicions that taking in the the sights of Rio de Janeiro was a high priority.
Taxpayers had a right to ask whether their money was being squandered. Such is not the case as the MPs' itinerary, released after pressure from the Prime Minister, confirmed. What has been abused is the public's right to know. Such itineraries should not have to be requested - they should be released as matter of course.
Flimsy excuses have been offered to justify the veil drawn over this trip. Arrangements were apparently being made until the last minute. But that difficulty could have been overcome by releasing an itinerary and making additions to it as required.
More likely, Jonathan Hunt's blushing experience with a taxi bill has made him highly sensitive to suggestions of perks. The group's lack of appointments on Good Friday and Easter Monday may have increased his unease, even if in Catholic Brazil that shortcoming is understandable.
But that sensitivity was misplaced. Worse still, the attempted itinerary blackout was badly misguided. MPs should, indeed, be wary of perks. But they need make no excuses for taking educational trips which stand to benefit all New Zealanders.
<i>Editorial:</i> MPs entitled to travel, but ....
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