Maori Party MP Marama Fox says she decided not to make an allegiance to the Treaty of Waitangi while being sworn in at Parliament because it would just be a stunt.
Marama Fox. Photo: SUPPLIED
MPs today had to swear allegiance to the Queen and had the option of swearing allegiance to God or making a non-religious affirmation.
Ms Fox said she gave careful consideration as to whether she would pledge allegiance to Te Tiriti o Waitangi instead, as she strongly believes that it should be an option.
However, she said she was not going to get kicked out of the House, as that would be a stunt, and she couldn't be an MP until she took the oath.
Ms Fox said she would submit the Oaths and Declarations Amendment Bill - which includes upholding the Treaty, in the ballot when she gets a chance.
Former Maori Party co-leader Tariana Turia is the only MP to have sworn allegiance to te Tiriti o Waitangi in Te Reo at Parliament in 1996.
