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Ross Robertson to address Cook Islands forum

Ross Robertson

04.05.2007

Labour MP Ross Robertson believes politicians worldwide must lead by example to restore public confidence in the political system. He will address this topic at the 6th Forum of Presiding Officers' and Clerks' Conference to be held next week in Rarotonga

As MP for Manukau and a presiding officer of Parliament, Ross Robertson says politicians must improve their professional conduct to help reinstate standards of integrity and respect to the profession.

“Collectively, politicians are seen by the community to have abandoned the standards that attract respect,” he said.

Findings in a worldwide 2005 Readers’ Digest poll showed politicians are the least trusted of all professions.

Ross Robertson believes there is public demand for a clear code of principles to govern the conduct of Members of Parliament. During this speech, he will discuss his proposal for the New Zealand Government to introduce a code of ethics for MPs.

“The proposed code is based on principles, including integrity and accountability,” he said.

“It is accepted that these qualities are prerequisites to maintaining confidence and trust in politicians.

“I believe New Zealand has an obligation in the Pacific, and indeed worldwide, to lead with good governance and democracy.

“By adopting a code of ethics and following it accordingly, political leaders can set an example for others to follow,” said Ross Robertson.

While a political code of ethics would not solve all of New Zealand’s political troubles, Ross Robertson considers that establishing common rules for conduct would go a long way towards helping improve the public’s confidence in Parliament and its members.

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