Willie Jackson’s Speech on the Treaty Principles Bill: A Call to Action for Middle New Zealand

Labour leader Chris Hipkins summed up Willie Jackson’s speech on the Treaty Principles Bill, saying he thought middle New Zealand didn’t want to see the country go backwards when it comes to relationships that we’ve got around the Treaty.

Jackson’s speech came as a response to criticism from the National party, which has been vocal in its opposition to the bill. The speech was an attempt to reassure Labour MPs and the public about the government’s stance on the issue.

**Understanding the Context**

The Treaty Principles Bill is a key piece of legislation that aims to strengthen the relationship between the government and Māori. The bill seeks to establish a framework for reconciliation and partnership between the two groups.

National has been opposed to the bill, citing concerns over its potential impact on the economy and the role of Māori in the country’s future. However, Labour remains committed to supporting the bill, with Jackson arguing that it is essential for creating a more equitable society.

**Jackson’s Message**

In his speech, Jackson emphasized the importance of unity and cooperation between Pākehā (non-Māori) and Māori. He argued that the government’s position on the Treaty Principles Bill was not about promoting division, but rather about working towards a common goal.

“We need to make our members feel comfortable about our position with regards to Māori,” Jackson said. “We haven’t been captured by anybody. The Treaty Principles is a kaupapa of principle and justice.”

Jackson also acknowledged that there are differing opinions within Labour on the issue, but emphasized that the party’s commitment to supporting the bill was unwavering.

“We need to be with us so we can be the next government,” he said.

**Response from National**

National has responded to Jackson’s speech, saying that under Labour, Māori health outcomes and educational achievement went backwards, and households were slammed by high inflation caused by their economic mismanagement.

“Willie Jackson was part of a government directly responsible for declining outcomes for Māori,” a National spokesperson said. “National’s position is clear and unchanged – as agreed with ACT as part of our coalition agreement, we will support the Treaty Principles Bill to Select Committee but we will not support it becoming law.”

**Conclusion**

Willie Jackson’s speech on the Treaty Principles Bill was an attempt to reassure Labour MPs and the public about the government’s stance on the issue. While there are differing opinions within the party, Jackson’s message of unity and cooperation resonated with many in attendance.

As the debate around the bill continues, it is clear that middle New Zealand will play a crucial role in shaping the country’s future. By working together, Pākehā and Māori can build a more equitable society, one that promotes justice and reconciliation for all.

“We think middle New Zealand is actually proud of the progress we’ve made as a country, and see that this government really are creating the most divisive period in race relations that we’ve seen in a generation,” Hipkins said.

With the Treaty Principles Bill at the forefront of the debate, it remains to be seen how middle New Zealand will respond. One thing is certain, however – the fate of this legislation will have far-reaching consequences for generations to come.