Letters to the Editor: Nepal flood and glacier collapse prompt climate change warning

We would also get a Fourth Amendment – the prohibition of illegal search and seizure – something those of us who are firearms owners are subject to on the whim of the police.

We do not want the current practice of the US, or England for that matter.

What we do want is the idea of the United States – where citizens can direct the affairs of our country and our Government is there to serve the people, not do as it sees fit.

We want a place where Parliament and the rule of law are paramount; where all people are treated equal, where rights and duties are spelled out and where being a citizen is not a convenience but a privilege.

That is the idea we should seek.

Andrew Austin

Rotorua

Nepal flood

What a devastating flood on the border of Nepal and China.

It must be everyone’s worst nightmare to be carried away and drown in a sea of mud – and such awful conditions for the rescuers.

This disaster, we’re told, was caused by the collapse of a glacier.

Every glacier on our planet is at risk of collapse unless we in the wealthy nations of the world can drastically reduce our carbon emissions.

This is the future our grandchildren face.

With New Zealand’s electioneering in full swing, where are the policies on reducing our carbon footprint?

Linda McGrogan

Taupō

Less is not more

This Government came to power offering fewer taxes, fewer ministry staff, less regulation and fewer worker rights.

Now, three years later and as the effects of these policies are hitting home, this “less of everything” doesn’t feel like more of anything.

Looking at other Western democracies, it is clear which ones are doing it hard and which ones are simply getting on with it: the Anglosphere seems to be chasing lower taxes, smaller government and fewer legislated rights, while northwestern Europe and some Asian states are riding out inflation-based issues by shielding low- and middle-income workers.

More of the basic costs such as shelter, education and healthcare are provided by the state, which has large purchasing power and can absorb price spikes.

This does mean a larger tax take, but all the evidence points to higher growth and living standards than what we have in New Zealand.

Ra Cleave

Rotorua

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