Labour, the Greens, NZ First and Internet Mana have all pledged to change or repeal the controversial GCSB law.
In answering a question on Q&A platform Ask Away, Labour Party leader David Cunliffe said Labour will repeal the GCSB law and replace it with one that’s “more protective of New Zealanders’ rights and freedoms”.
The questions was asked after allegations of mass surveillance of New Zealanders were made by the NSA whistleblower Edward Snowden. Prime Minister John Key has always insisted there is no mass surveillance of New Zealanders. This week he said he can rule out the GCSB conducting mass surveillance of New Zealanders – but not for foreign spy agencies.
The allegations made at the event organised by Internet Party founder Kim Dotcom over-shadowed much of the last week of the campaign.
Massey University political marketing specialist Dr Claire Robinson – one of the people behind Ask Away – said that could have put off young voters but there have been more efforts to get out the youth vote than ever before.
“When you do manage to attract the attention of young voters, they prove that they are more than capable of asking good political questions that cut through all the tactical and strategic rubbish that we’re getting on a weekly basis at the moment.”
Radio New Zealand and The Wireless have been working with Ask Away all week to get answers from the leaders on the most popular questions each day.
Wellington musician Daniel McBride, also known as Sheep Dog & Wolf, asked why the artist’s benefit was cut after the 2008 election and whether parties would bring it back.
The leaders were asked if they would consider a moratorium on all new colony caged egg production sites.
They were also asked for their views on the plain packaging of cigarettes – which got ACT leader Jamie Whyte in some hot water.
And lastly – should prisoners be given the right to vote?
You can find more questions and answers at Ask Away.