Remarkable

Audrey Young said she was "flabergasted" at the turn of events today around the Anti-Smacking Bill - and I feel much the same.

But I think its a good flabergasted. Normally in ours and other Westminster style systems oppositions and governments often seem to oppose each other for the sake of it, rather than at least appearing to work towards what is best for the country.

Following discussions in Sydney at the Leadership Forum between Michael Cullen and National Leader John Key, the Prime Minister went to former PM and President of the Law Commission Sir Geoffrey Palmer to try to come up with some sort of middle ground that upholds the intent of the original bill, whilst recognising that it would be stupid if the law were to create a situation that led to tons of parents being prosecuted. Clark then got the Greens on board followed by United Future and most significantly National.

This was a welcome change of tack from the extreme positions that have dominated this debate thus far. While I admit it was odd seeing images of Helen Clark and John Key standing side-by-side announcing this, it was also somewhat exhilirating. Proving that actually yes, our politicians do have it in them to be constructive.

Often politics is more about different approaches to problems rather than solving different problems. I think we saw today that when people and parties realise they have the same goal, solutions can be found. Theres a lot to be said for locking people in a room and telling them to solve a problem!

This is a good day for politics.