Simon Bridges National Party Leader simonbridges.co.nz

Last week National released the seventh in our series of Discussion Documents, this one on law and order. As the party of law and order, this is in our DNA.

The number of patched gang members is increasing at almost twice the rate of new police recruits. We've always said we would crack down on gangs, and our discussion document reflects that. For a start, we're proposing a new police unit which would harass and interfere with gang activity.

The unit would be modelled on ‘Strike Force Raptor' based in New South Wales which was set up to target the activity of outlaw motorcycle gangs and associates.

‘Strike Force Raptor' would interrupt gang activity. If someone was punched outside a nightclub by a gang member, the unit would take over the case. If gang members didn't pay their traffic fines, it would follow up to ensure their driver licences were taken away.

National is also proposing banning gang patches and insignia in public. This year alone we've seen patched Mongrel Mob members carry out initiation ceremonies on Te Mata Peak, a popular destination for families and tourists.

We believe New Zealanders should be able to go about their lives without fear and intimidation, gang patches and insignia are intimidating. It's time we put a stop to that.

This document is just one part of the biggest policy development process undertaken by an Opposition ever. Enter into the contest of ideas with your feedback at https://www.national.org.nz/law_and_order