New Zealand PM dismisses new flag poll

Wellington, September 21: New Zealand Prime Minister John Key on Monday dismissed a new poll which shows nearly 70 percent of the total population does not want to change the country’s flag. In the poll carried out by TV3, New Zealanders were asked whether they wanted the change now that they have seen the fil four altertive flag options. Only 25 percent said yes, while the majority said no, Radio New Zealand reported. But Key - who has previously voiced his support for the silver fern on the flag - said the question asked was too basic, as there were people who had yet to make up their minds. Four flag designs were unveiled earlier this month, as the country decides the future of New Zealand’s new flag. A government-appointed panel whittled down more than 10,000 design submissions to a long list of 40, which was made public in August, and the fil four choices were unveiled on September 1. A referendum will be held between November 20 and December 11 to decide which of the four designs will run against the current flag in a second referendum in March 2016.  (IANS)