Despite recent doubt as to whether Rainbow Wellington’s regular pre-general election Candidate's Forum in Parliament House would go ahead this year, the organisers have announced it will take place next Thursday 21 August.

Question time: Wellington Central's gay candidate Grant Robertson

"We will have a sit-down meal provided by Bellamy's, followed by brief presentations and Q&A sessions."

The function had proved very popular and successful when held before the 2002 and 2005 elections, however bookings for this year's Forum were initially slow. "There's still only 50% of the attendance we had at the last two – and not a single woman, so presumably lesbians are no longer interested in politics?"

Representing the Green Party will be Ohariu candidate Gareth Hughes, gay Wellington Central candidate Grant Robertson will speak for Labour, Stephen Franks represents National, the Progressive party's Deputy Leader Matt Robson and ACT's Mana candidate Michael Collins will also speak.

NZ First and the Maori Party did not respond to requests to appear at the event, and United Future NZ apologised on behalf its two MPs but offered no alternative candidate.

Rainbow Wellington's Vice-Patron and MP for Wellington Central, Marian Hobbs, will again host the Forum. "She has hosted the last two such events, and this will be her grand finale," says Reed. Brian Brooks will be the master of Ceremonies.

The Rainbow Wellington Election Candidate's Forum will be held in the Grand Hall of Parliament House from 6pm on Thursday 21 August. The booking deadline has passed, but further information on the event is available on the link below.