For some strange reason, I have started getting emails from the office of Sir Roger Douglas and one offered me a free book. Something for nothing seemed too good to miss so I replied, requesting a copy.
Now despite the fact that I have often disagreed with his politics, Roger Douglas is a politician I admire. He is a politician who has the courage of his convictions, the guts to stand up for what he believes in, the guts to stand up and be counted. He is always prepared to state his case and then argue the points with those of a different view.
And isn’t that a very important part of a politicians role. Shouldn’t politicians whether they be central government or local body politicians, be out in the community expressing views, encouraging debate on important issues leading public opinion. It seems to me that too many politicians are not prepared to express opinions, to state their position on important matters strongly, in case they alienate a few voters. They seem to take the view that if they don’t state where they stand on an issue then no-one can disagree with them.
I suppose in the fickle world of politics that makes a bit of sense. Keep your head down, don’t say anything that anyone can disagree with, be seen at all the right places, tell everyone you are passionate about your electorate or city – politicians love that word passionate – and you will be in for another 3 years.
Well frankly – that is simply not my style.
I will always state my view on matters that are important and fully expect there will be those who disagree with me. Then the matter can be openly debated which is of course not only positive, but healthy for society.
In his time as finance minister, Roger Douglas completely restructured the New Zealand economy and at the time, came under enormous criticism. Subsequently we have had both right and left wing governments and neither has reverted to the old system. That would suggest to me that Roger Douglas got it fairly right.
And if he hadn’t had the guts to make that stand, to take the criticism on the chin, to do what he believed was right for the country, then New Zealand would have been the loser.
Politicians should express their views and be prepared to debate them.
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