RE: RE: Guilt Upon Accusation law Section 92A – Hon Nick Smith

So I received a reply from Hon. Nick Smith, which is much appreciated. But I’m not just another somebody sending in email’s because I was told to. I am also following the action in the forums and soon noticed, as did others, the trend that was emerging. I am not able to spend all of my time on the issue, as like others I have other commitments. But as a combined force we can see what the people who are meant to be spending their time on this are, or are not, doing.

There is a canned response going round. But this is not acceptable, especially when they suggest it is not their responsibility. The Internet allows us to record information, share information, make people accountable… please read the links in the reply for quotes as to why National can not parse this off.

I thought the government was meant to work for the people? How the people feel over the new Internet law.

I have replied to Hon. Nick Simth’s letter below.

Dear Hon. Nick Smith,

Thank you for your time on this matter. I notice that parts of your reply appear to be a pre formatted response that has been given to National Party members.

“The amendment was passed through the House by the previous Government. The new National-led government understands that many people are concerned about the effect of the legislation and we will monitor the implementation of section 92A closely.”
Please note that Section 92A was supported by Judith Tizard (Labour) and Chris Finlayson (National). You can read here the quote from parliamentary record by Chris Finlayson (National, Attorney General) saying why he supports S92A: It was due to “approaches by various commercial entities”

http://tinyurl.com/national-labour-made-s92a

My biggest concern is that interpretation of the law is so open.
“Some media reports have interpreted this legislation to assume guilt upon accusation of copyright infringement.”
That is correct. The media have been able to interpret the law this way because it can be. Today the powers that would like the law to stay will interpret the law to the least offensive meaning.

I would appreciate your personal views on this law and the ability it gives for people to be punished outside of traditional trial systems.

I look forward to your timely response.

Thank you,
James Turner

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