A return to 10 year passports and a review of gambling laws are highlights of Labour's Internal Affairs policy released today.

'More than 15,000 New Zealanders signed a petition calling on the Government to revert to the 10 year system for passports,” says Labour's Internal Affairs spokesperson Trevor Mallard.

'While National is not prepared to make any firm commitments to that, Labour is. Restoring the 10 year life for passports will bring New Zealand into line with the US, Australia, Canada and the European Union.

'Kiwis have also told us they have major concerns with the current gambling laws, especially where they affect local communities.

'We've taken that on board and a Labour Government will conduct a comprehensive review of gambling laws and policy.

'It will look at ways to strengthen the powers of communities and local authorities to determine the extent, location and nature of gambling outlets in their neighbourhoods, and seek to introduce effective gambling harm prevention and minimisation measures.

'It will also examine the ‘pokies for convention centre' deal to determine ways to advance the development of an international facility while reducing additional gambling availability and harm.

'The policy also outlines a proposal to re-establish Archives New Zealand and the National Library as separate and independent entities outside of the Department of Internal Affairs.

'Both institutions are vital parts of our constitutional and democratic infrastructure. Merging them under the Ministry's umbrella has compromised both,” says Trevor Mallard.

Source: Office of Trevor Mallard.