A so-called apology by Labour leader David Cunliffe for being a man has sparked debate about the issue of family violence.
Say what you will about @DavidCunliffeMP his speech at the Women's Refuge Symposium has brought me to tears.
— Polly is a nice name (@pimmslabyrinth) July 3, 2014
Mr Cunliffe told the audience at a Women's Refuge Symposium that family and sexual violence was perpetrated overwhelmingly by men against women and children, and apologised for being a man.
But Prime Minister John Key called the apology insincere and insulting to imply all men were abusive.
First the man ban, now this. Moira will be happy with her leader: Cunliffe apologises for being a man: http://t.co/t3h3pOH0q8
— Peter Dunne (@PeterDunneMP) July 4, 2014
I laugh when I read ppl saying well done to Cunliffe for his apology when I know those same ppl would mock Key if he said it.
— Allan Buxton (@RamjamNZ) July 4, 2014
To be clear, I understand the sentiment that Cunliffe was trying to express, and I appreciate it.
— Raquel Moss (@raquelxmoss) July 4, 2014
I for one am offended by David Cunliffe's comments today. I'm not sorry at all for being a man, as i'm proud to be a non-violent one.
— Jonathan Hampton (@otagoman14) July 4, 2014