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New Zealand Anti-Vivisection Society Inc

30 August 1989

The Rt Hon G W R Palmer
Prime Minister
Parliament House
WELLINGTON

Dear Mr Palmer

On 24 April 1989 the NZ Anti-Vivisection Society presented a Petition to Parliament signed by over 100,000 people, seeking the abolition of vivisection in New Zealand.

Anticipating that the government would call for (or instruct us to call for) Submissions enabling supporters of the Petition to present evidence and attend a subsequent Hearing to answer questions on their papers provided this was specified in their Submissions we have been notified by Mr Wallbank that his agreement to call for Submissions has been rescinded.

Given the enormity of the Petition, and of the issue, and the obvious impracticality of settling a debate of this magnitude by sighting one paper, I appeal to you as leader of the government, and because of your known views on constitutional issues, to reassess the situation and guide the Committee to the democratic decision of calling for Submissions as laid down in the regulations which entitle us to negotiate our case through the Parliamentary system.

I enclose a copy of my letter to Mr Wallbank (http://www.nzavs.org.nz/mobilise/25/3.html). You will see that I have withheld my Submission until this Society receives news that others will also be qualified and recorded and trust that you will assist in bringing this about please.

Yours Sincerely,

Bette Overell