pn974. Lobbying, vested interests and the wealthy in NZ politics

 

Follow the money

"Wealthy vested interests have an oversized influence on political decisions in New Zealand. Partly that’s due to their use of corporate lobbyists."  

This is the opening sentence in Bryce Edwards' illuminating article on the dubious role of lobbyists, and what needs to be done to regulate their influence on political decison-making which is of special interest in an election year.

Albert Einstein

He goes on to discuss the role of the media in the lobbying process:

"The media, too, must stop enabling lobbyists by giving them platforms to advance their agendas and reputations. Perhaps the media has a responsibility to stop using lobbyists as commentators or authoritative news sources.

" In recent times, lobbyists have become a central part of political analysis in New Zealand, as if they are the most authoritative voices due to their links with political parties."

I would add political polls as another source or breeding ground for lobbyists. Although the poll itself may be neutral, those commenting on the results are seldom without bias. 

-- ACW