Hamilton West polling for a new MP closes on 10 December - a litmus test for next year's general election. Crime and the cost of living are top of mind for most voters, but so far they're not rushing to the ballot box. 
In today's Focus on Politics podcast, RNZ Political Reporter Anneke Smith takes the pulse of the bellwether electorate of Hamilton West.

Hamilton West by-election offers teaser for 2023

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A law giving ministers sweeping powers to greenlight infrastructure projects has attracted a wave of criticism and responses at select committee.
With ministers beginning to soften their language, the bill could yet see changes before progressing through Parliament.
In this week's Focus on Politics, Political Reporter Anneke Smith explores the government's fast-track legislation and the responses to it.

Fast Track bill hits hurdles of public outrage

In Focus on Politics, political reporter Katie Scotcher looks at the latest funding boost for the Defence Force and how much more investment is needed.

Focus on Politics for Friday 17 May 2024

In Focus on Politics, RNZ deputy political editor Craig McCulloch chews over the coalition's school lunch announcement, as well as the opposition's somewhat muted reaction.

Lunch cuts and cut lunch for secondary schools

In Focus on Politics, RNZ's deputy political editor Craig McCulloch whips through a whirlwind week at Parliament.

Sideshows overshadow substance at Parliament

Successive governments have claimed crack downs on youth vaping but retailers are flouting the law, with just one prosecution on the books. 
Retailers have until the end of the year to phase out single-use products, but academics say MPs' fears vape manufacturers will just adapt are justified. 
In this week's Focus on Politics, Political Reporter Anneke Smith looks at concerns vape manufacturers will find loopholes in new regulations.

Hamilton West by-election offers teaser for 2023

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