New Zealanders to get it good and hard

So, the New Zealand Parliament has passed into law the odious GCSB Amendment Bill that allows the government free reign to spy on its innocent citizens.  In today's political environment, where vague threats of terrorism justify almost any repressive act of government (such as kidnapping people off the streets of friendly nations, summary executions of individuals anywhere in the world with unmanned drones, and torture to obtain confessions), it does not surprise me that the New Zealand Government wants to join in all the fun. What surprised me about the debate leading up to this law passing is the depth of support that Prime Minister John Key has for these dictatorial spying powers.  I guess it just goes to prove what I've always suspected - most New Zealanders are more interested in feeling secure (not matter how much of an illusion that might be) than freedom.  That is, of course, why we have one of the world's most extensive welfare states.

H L Mencken said, "Democracy is the theory that the common people know what they want, and deserve to get it good and hard."  Well, New Zealanders are going to get it good and hard.  As the vacuous waiter said, "Enjoy!"