Still more MPs

And still more:

Christchurch Central MP Brendon Burns called for liquor laws such as the drinking age to become matters of party , saying the traditional use of conscience votes to decide them should be a relic of the past.

The new Labour MP said the need for reform was clear from his own electorate, where even if the bars refused to serve intoxicated people and there was a liquor ban, alcohol was still easily available. Local and health bodies had told him alcohol accounted for 70 per cent of weekend crime and injuries in Christchurch.

“Liquor legislation is difficult to get right. In part think that is because it remains a conscience vote for members. As further liquor legislation looms in the time of this Parliament, I suggest it is timely for parties to consider whether such law changes should become matters of party policy.”

I respectfully disagree. I think more issues should be conscience votes, not less. I love conscience votes – you get true debate. MPs lobby each other, amendments are considered on their merits, you get great passionate speeches etc.

Before turning to politics, he worked for 12 years in the parliamentary press gallery, and said he was the first former gallery member to become an MP since Sir Frederick Doidge 70 years ago.

I didn't know that.

Melissa Lee

Background:
Former journalist and presenter on Asia Down Under, which has been produced by her company for the past 13 years. Born in Korea, family moved to New Zealand in 1988.

Personal:
Her parents instilled a strong work ethic in their children. As a cadet reporter at the Sunday News she would go to work at the family's until 11pm after finishing her day's work. Mother of 10-year-old son.

I covered Melissa at the time of her maiden speech.

Steven Joyce

Background:
Started what is now the RadioWorks network in the 1980s with four friends, all putting in $100 for a Massey station. After 17 years CanWest bought them out for $6 million.

Personal:
He comes from a long line of people. His parents both school at 15 and “scrimped and borrowed” to buy a Four Square grocery store in .

Steven has been in charge of National's last two campaigns, which saw National's vote go from 21% to 45%. The first MP since Margaret Wilson to go straight into Cabinet.

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