http://www.stuff.co.nz/stuff/0,2106,3027378a6220,00.html
"In commenting on the current prison accommodation crisis, Justice Minister Phil Goff put the blame on the 1999 Withers referendum, writes The Press in an editorial.
Since that emphatic vote in favour of harsher penalties for criminals, no political party dares appear soft on crime; indeed, a bidding war has broken out between the Government and some opposition parties.
This is not the way to make justice policy. It sidelines reasoned debate, plays to prejudice, and ignores complex reality in favour of slogans. New Zealand can do better.
If we are to keep the pressure on crime and not empty the bank in the process, smart policies are needed. Simply imposing longer sentences and sending more people to prison is expensive and unproductive. The cost of new prisons is large, as is the upkeep of inmates."
