United Future

It's disappointing to see the use of the party whip by National on the matters of liquor law reform. More disappointing still to see United Future supporting such an approach. As a liberal party which prefers local and decentralised solutions the practice used by the two old parties to whip their MPs is something United should be steering clear of - except on budget, confidence and matters specifically included in the party policy programme. Surely we support democratic grassroots responses and accountability of Mps to the people?

It's not compassionate or economically sensible to do nothing in the face of rising alcohol abuse and dire social consequences.