I was interested in the editorial “Who Do I Vote For” (NZ Baptist, August). Overall, it was well thought-out and objective. I do take issue, however, with the suggestion that the anti-smacking law was passed on a conscience vote.

Prior to the bill being introduced I wrote to Phil Goff suggesting that he allow Labour Party MPs to have a conscience vote, I received no response. Unfortunately it was National Party policy and consequently John Boscawen’s bill, when drawn from the ballot, was blocked by the Prime Minister from even having a first reading in Parliament.

There was absolutely no chance that any MP from either major party could possibly exercise a conscience vote. The Boscawen Bill would have allowed reasonable physical discipline.

The outcome is that we have a disgraceful child discipline law that casts a dark shadow over our country and persuades me to vote for an alternative party. I find the State control of family upbringing unacceptable. The law is unreasonably intrusive, resulting in good parents being criminalised. Family First has produced a DVD that covers the shameful details of what is happening to good people and the only possible way for this disgusting wrong to be put right is to vote for either New Zealand First or the Conservative Party.

I urge good folk to do just as the editor suggested, “to vote for individuals of integrity.” To do this, readers will need to research the credentials of the leaders of the parties.

– Ross Craig
Albany