27 March - The National Party says it would not be surprised to see Sue Bradford's child discipline bill picked up by the government.

http://www.radionz.co.nz/news/latest/200703271946/government_may_pick_up_bradfords_bill,_predicts_national

Government may pick up Bradford's bill, predicts National

Posted at 7:46pm on 27 Mar 2007

The National Party says it would not be surprised to see Sue Bradford's child discipline bill picked up by the government.

If that happens, the legislation could be passed before the Easter recess.

The government abandoned its bid to pass the bill under urgency this week, saying it believes it would have had the numbers but the bill was causing ructions within other parties.

Deputy Prime Minister Michael Cullen refused to comment when asked if the government might pick up Ms Bradford's bill.

This would result in its being debated on usual sitting days, rather than the fortnightly members' day, and its passing as early as next week.

National says it would be a cunning way of getting legislation off the agenda by passing it more quickly.

Bradford unfazed by delay
However, Green MP Sue Bradford says she is relaxed about the failure of the bill to pass this week.

Ms Bradford says that as long as the parliamentary support she has obtained for the bill stays solid she is happy to wait.

The bill passed a second reading by 70 votes to 51 on 21 February. Consideration of amendments began on 15 March when one clause was debated for almost two hours by 23 speakers. By the time the House rose for the day, only the name of the bill and its start date had been voted on.

May date
Because Parliament is in recess for much of April, the final vote will not take place until May. Opponents say will give them valuable time to lobby MPs.

National MP Chester Borrows says the government's decision not to debate the anti-smacking legislation under urgency is a victory for his party. He says National's position is vindicated by polling that suggests 83% of New Zealanders oppose the bill.