Send off the clowns

Editor,

I am becoming more and more disappointed, even disgusted with the self-seeking behaviour of our so-called political representatives.

I realise that they have become more and more exposed to public scrutiny, these days, with Parliament being televised. I also realise, that even with some initial, ‘‘front of house’’ coaching, it may be difficult for new members to steer away from attempting to become ‘‘scene stealers’’ or ‘‘over-supportive devotees’’.

It is embarrassing to observe flagrant self-seeking performances aimed at promoting themselves favourably to watching voters.

A particularly pitiful form of behaviour is that of being seated behind or, preferably, just to either side of ministers about to answer questions during question time. Their sole role is to show visible support to whoever the senior member is prattling on about.

It is rather amazing, also, how many budding actors choose their time to pass in front of and behind other party members being televised at the time.

There are two National Party members, one male and one female, who have won the acting audition entitling them to perform the seated role. One Labour supporter regularly performs with friendly waves to the public gallery before smiling directly into the television camera. I have named the two National Party members ‘‘Mr and Mrs Noddy’’ and the Labour actor ‘‘Mr Look At Me – I’m Here’’.

The nature of representative governance ensures that block voting declarations favour the governing party because they have the most members in the house. Having a mixed membership Parliament has rarely, if ever, brought down a governing party’s proposed legislation.

Negotiations between the Government and minor parties, offering elevated, higher paid positions to a minor party’s leader may offset the demise of the ruling party’s right to govern through reasoned negotiations.

What do these clown MPS think they have been voted in for? Is it really only for their self-seeking glorification and doubtfully earned $100,00-plus with all kinds of undivulged perks?

There are basically two different party groups wishing to be served by differently motivated masters.

The two groups are: Those who employ, who have invested interests in making money, and those who physically work to earn money.

RAY BROWN, Pukerua Bay