1Caucus Power Should the Government rush through a Bill approving the $400 million Luggate hydro dam when there is some doubt about whether New Zealand needs its power? Caucus has promised 500 workers on the Clyde Dam project that work will be started on the Luggate on time, but corporatisation of the Electricity Department, along with several other Government departments, means it will have to compete in the world of private enterprise, where projects must be economically viable. This concept does not appear to fit with a dam producing electricity that is not needed. A look at the implications of the Luggate decision and what this means for the Government.

2Shooting Up The total cost of prescription medicines to the taxpayer is expected to exceed $400 million this year. The drugs bill has increased significantly in recent years, and from September 1, 1986 medicines will come off price control. An investigation into the cost of medicines, which reveals the findings of a hitherto unpublished report which makes several critical comments about the Health Department, who operate the free medicine scheme. Should patients pay part of the cost of their medication?

3Learn to Survive A look at plans by the Wellington Jewish Community to found its own school to complement its kindergarten. At present, the only Jewish School in New Zealand is Kadimah College in Auckland where most of the pupils are gentiles (non-Jewish). It is hoped that a new school in Wellington may attract more Jewish immigrants to New Zealand.