November 26, 2014
Maori could be target of spy bill
The Maori Party has voted to introduce a bill giving more powers to the country's spy agencies, even though it fears the powers may end up being used against Maori activists.
The Countering Terrorism Fighters Legislation Bill will allow the Security Intelligence Service to spy on private properties without a warrant for up to 48 hours.
MP Marama Fox says the Maori Party does not want a repeat of Operation Eight, where police and security agencies spied on Maori activists in Te Urewera and then arrested them for terrorism.
It’s also concerned the legislation could render a person stateless by cancelling their passport.
The Maori Party wants to hear what the public has to say, even though the deadline for submissions is today.
The Government wants the bill back in parliament by next Tuesday and passed by Christmas.
Labour and New Zealand First also voted for the bill to be read a first time, with only the Greens voting against.
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