Flag Debate Resurfaces

The debate over NZ’s national flag is in the spotlight again, after PM Helen Clark publicly proposed removing the Union Jack from its design. “I think people could debate the flag the way Canada did when it transitioned to the maple leaf without it calling into question the basic constitutional status,” she said. “Canada, of course, still recognises the Queen as its head of state as well.” While the PM likes the idea of a stylised Southern Cross on a blue background, most New Zealanders in favour of changing the flag would prefer the silver fern on a black background. Helen Clark’s comments created a stir in NZ: the NZ Herald opposed her idea in an editorial, and the subject has continued to be debated in online forums.