Christopher Luxon’s recent remarks on New Zealand’s immigration policies and population growth have sparked a debate on the appropriateness of politicians making jokes about family size. While discussing National’s infrastructure plans in Christchurch, Luxon linked immigration to the country’s economic agenda, emphasising the need for people to support economic growth.
Luxon pointed out that New Zealand’s population growth had stagnated since 2016, stating that the country had stopped replacing itself. In a lighthearted manner, he encouraged individuals to consider having more children, suggesting it would be beneficial for the nation.
In response to Luxon’s comments, the party’s deputy leader, Nicola Willis, addressed the issue with a more serious tone. When asked about her views on increasing birth rates, she clarified that such decisions should be left to individuals based on their personal desires and family circumstances. She attributed Luxon’s remarks as a joke and emphasized that the National Party does not dictate what constitutes the right family size.
Willis made it clear that National does not have a policy to influence individuals’ decisions on family size and considered suggestions otherwise as ridiculous. She underscored the importance of treating family matters seriously and not trivializing them through jokes.
This exchange follows a recent disagreement between major parties, as Labour’s campaign chair, Megan Woods, compared National’s prescriptions policy to the dystopian world depicted in the TV show and novel, The Handmaid’s Tale.
In light of these events, the discussion about politicians making light-hearted remarks regarding family and population deserves attention, emphasising the need for a more thoughtful and respectful approach to such sensitive matters.