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The Niue Constitution Act of 1974 allowed for a 20 member Legislative Assembly. 14 are elected to represent each village and the remaining six from the National Register called a Common Roll.
A Premier, to lead the Government is elected by the Legislative Assembly who in turn selects three associates a four member Cabinet. A Speaker of the Assembly is selected from outside the ranks of the Legislative Assembly members. All local residents over 18 years and over are eligible to vote.
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The 1974 Niue Constitution Act
Following the results of the September 1974 Referendum with the required 66% for the proposed constitutional change from integration to a self governing state The Niue Constitution Act became law on the 19th October 1974 containing the following important provisions:
- That Niue becomes a self governing state in free association with New Zealand.
- The Constitution shall be the supreme Law of Niue
- That Niueans are New Zealand Citizens
- That her Majesty in right of New Zealand be responsible for the external affairs and defence of Niue
- That It shall be a continuing responsibility of the Government of New Zealand to provide necessary economic and administrative assistance to Niue.