NZ First to place Ross’ proxy vote

‘‘New Zealand First does this to ensure that all New Zealand voters continue to receive representation in Parliament.’’

NZ First on holding the proxy vote of Jami-Lee Ross

Expelled National MP Jami-Lee Ross has given his proxy vote to NZ First – but will still vote with National.

The former National MP is on sick leave for mental health reasons after being expelled by National over allegations he leaked caucus details.

However, he remains in Parliament as an elected MP in Botany until he either quits to force a by-election, or National triggers the so-called waka jumping law to oust him. NZ First confirmed the move in a statement, saying: ‘‘New Zealand First received a letter from Jami-Lee Ross on November 3, asking the party to hold his proxy vote.’’

The statement in full:

‘‘The New Zealand First caucus strongly believes that in terms of the Electoral Integrity Amendment Act, that someone in Mr Ross’ position should resign his seat and test his mandate with the electors of Botany and we urge him to do so.

‘‘That said, after careful deliberation New Zealand First is able to confirm that it has accepted Mr Ross’ request.

‘‘The party wishes to make clear that its decision to accept Mr Ross’ proxy, until such time as he revokes it, is done solely on the grounds that the electors of Botany gave a clear expression of their will at the 2017 General Election when they elected him with a significant majority.

‘‘It is on that basis, and that basis alone, that the New Zealand First Whip will use Mr Ross’ proxy – to be exercised at all times in support of the vote of the National Party – as a temporary delegate for the electors of Botany. New Zealand First does this to ensure that all New Zealand voters continue to receive representation in Parliament.’’

It is unclear whether switching his vote to NZ First will trigger the waka-jumping law – a NZ First-inspired law change that is supposed to preserve the proportionality of Parliament on election night.

Ross had written to National asking it to exercise his proxy vote but that was refused.

A National Party spokesman refused to comment yesterday.

‘‘This is a matter for NZ First and Jami-Lee Ross.

‘‘Mr Ross is no longer a National MP and we’re done talking about him.’’

Ross tweeted: ‘‘While I remain on leave on medical advice, it is important my constituents in the Botany electorate continue to have a vote cast on their behalf in Parliament. I appreciate NZ First supporting Botany by accepting my request to cast a proxy vote.’’