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May 3 2011

How could the Left come back this year?

I’ve noticed lots of angst in New Zealand’s Left. I don’t agree with it all. However, I’m really concerned that the next Parliament will be close to dysfunctional with lots of splinter parties. A strong Opposition will be vital to ensuring that the powers have recently been granted to the executive for Christchurch’s recovery are limited.

I haven’t heard hear firm policy consensus on how to respond. Last night, I jotted down a few things that the left would need to exploit if it wants to win this year’s election:

Some big-ticket items:

  • National builds prisons, we build schools
  • A vote for National is a vote for the far-right / Brash
  • A vote for us is not a vote for Hone Harawira
  • We will add democracy to CERA
  • We will keep your home well insulated

Lesser things to target specific demographics:

  • We will not cut off your Internet
  • No road user charges for electric vehicles
  • All new roads must include full cycle lane unless there is a strong reason not to
  • Provide a packet of seeds with native plants, rather than a standard leaflet
  • Foreign policy for New Zealand’s interests, not USA’s
  • Adherence to our flexible, adaptable unwritten constitution

I think that they should generally stay away from Working for Families and interest-free student loans. These are big pain points, but they’re expensive & New Zealand doesn’t want to become poor.

Also, the minimum wage really does seem too high. It’s keeping young workers out of the workforce. Very high youth unemployment will damage our country for decades. This is a hard one for the Left though, because lowering of the minimum wage seems like a punch in the mouth to workers.

Lastly, one of the political parties should think of a way to reconnect with Britain. This may sound silly at first, but the Monarchy could be a very important lever. While colonialism has been difficult for New Zealand, it’s also brought the rule of law, enduring symbols of nationhood, democracy, international access & wealth.