Oaths bill modernises language

A bill to modernise oaths passed its first reading yesterday with a strong majority amid opposition claims it was an example of "creeping republicanism".

Justice Minister Phil Goff said the main change under the Oaths Modernisation Bill was that new citizens and parliamentarians would pledge loyalty to New Zealand, as well as the Queen, and would commit themselves to upholding New Zealand's values of democracy and the rights and freedoms of its people.

Archaic and overly complex language has been replaced and Maori versions were provided.

"It is important that the public can have confidence that when those people holding public office take an oath, the principles and expectations that go with the promises being made in the oath are understood by everyone," Mr Goff said when debate began.

National MP Wayne Mapp said his party opposed the bill because it was unnecessary and it was a way the Government could "lull the public into the process of incremental change" over constitutional matters.

- NZPA