"A newly elected National-led Government will establish a high level team - including union and business representatives - to review New Zealand's ratification of the Kyoto Protocol," says National Leader Bill English.

Mr English says it is not normal convention for an incoming Government to consider revoking New Zealand's commitment to an international treaty such as the Kyoto Protocol.

"However, there has been a wide ranging - from the Business Roundtable to the CTU - chorus of dissent over Kyoto who also do not believe ratification at this time is in New Zealand's interests."

He says National has always argued that New Zealand should not ratify Kyoto ahead of our trading partners.

"It has been clear, all along, that Helen Clark has been absolutely determined to get her international photo opportunity and ratify Kyoto in August - no matter what the cost to New Zealand's economy.

"Despite the pretence of public consultation, the whole process has been a sham with the Government committed to signing New Zealand up to Kyoto before any major cost analysis was done.

"However, we will not allow New Zealand businesses to loaded with extra compliance costs - such as the proposed carbon tax - that companies in competing countries, like Australia, the US and Canada, will not be subjected to.

"National will not stand by and watch New Zealanders lose jobs, investment and market share to our trading partners."

Mr English has again challenged Helen Clark to delay Kyoto ratification and make it an election issue.

"This is an issue of great importance to the country's future and she should let the voters decide if New Zealand should commit to Kyoto - along with the costs and benefits of this decision - when many of our trading partners are not," Mr English concluded.

Ends

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