NZ MPs set to slap ban on bald spot cameras

MPs have had enough of bad hair days

WELLINGTON, New Zealand -- Members of New Zealand's parliament are seeking the removal of television cameras they say give an unflattering shot of their balding heads.

The follicly challenged parliamentarians want cameras barred from the upper viewing galleries preferring to have cameras permanently installed lower down to obtain a more aesthetically pleasing viewing angle.

At present New Zealand broadcasters record debates with cameras brought in to parliament as they are needed.

The new proposals would see fixed cameras installed providing broadcasters with footage as and when needed.

MP Richard Prebble, leader of the ACT party said having cameras at a lower angle would present a better image of the country's male MPs, "instead of us all being shown going bald".

According to the New Zealand newspaper The Dominion the parliament's standing orders committee, all of whom are male, raised no objections to the suggestion.

Roots

In the past the committee has raised concerns that the lack of permanent cameras has led to broadcasters using library footage of debates, showing members to be in the house when in fact they were not.

Commenting on the proposal, house speaker Jonathan Hunt said the new cameras would also benefit female MPs whose dyed hair was showing at the roots, the Dominion reported.

Hunt said he had several letters from TV viewers suggesting he tell at least two MPs they needed touch ups.

However, he added that he had not yet had the confidence to break the news to them.