Farmers Say Kyoto Analysis Not Enough

13 February 2002

Federated Farmers of New Zealand (Inc.) President Alistair Polson once again called for the Government to delay ratification following the release of the National Interest Analysis (NIA) on ratification of the Kyoto Protocol earlier today.

A National Interest Analysis of New Zealand's intended ratification of the Kyoto Protocol on Climate Change is required with any international treaty to be ratified by New Zealand. The analysis must cover the reasons for New Zealand becoming party to the treaty, the advantages, disadvantages, obligations, costs and the economic, social, cultural and environmental effects of the treaty coming into force.

"Even though the cost-benefit analysis undertaken by officials is inadequate and it clearly states that New Zealand risks slowing economic growth and diverting investment offshore."

"The Government is failing all its citizens if it remains hell-bent on ratifying the Kyoto Protocol. It has to properly work out what action it proposes and then undertake a proper National Interest Analysis before shackling New Zealand to Kyoto commitments."

"For the Minister to say in his press release that the economic effects from Government policy are unrelated to the issue of ratification is absurd and indicates a willingness to play Russian roulette with New Zealand's future."

ENDS

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