Ian McLean Spokesperson for the Green Party

National claims a mandate for asset sales as a result of its platform in the last election.

The problem is only 15% of us actually support asset sales. Many voters who supported National are now searching for ways to pull back from the claimed mandate.

There is a way. It is called a citizens initiated referendum. The Government is required to undertake a CIR if a valid petition is signed by at least 10% of registered voters.

Please understand that the petition is not the referendum. It is just the first step in getting there.

Initiated by Grey Power and supported by many political and community groups, the question for the CIR has been agreed (a complicated process).

The petition is now circulating. About 400,000 signatures are required and you can help.

Download the petition from www.greens.org.nz/petitions/keep-our-assets.

Circulate it amongst your friends, whanau and workmates. Send signatures to the address on the form.