Wednesday, 22 May 2002

New Zealand business has been consulted extensively and continues to be consulted on climate change policy, says the Convenor of the Ministerial Group on Climate Change, Pete Hodgson.

Mr Hodgson said Business New Zealand’s claims concerning the results of a “survey” about business consultation should be examined skeptically.

“This looks very much like a survey designed to deliver a predetermined result,” Mr Hodgson said. “The claimed response is patently ridiculous given the extensive opportunities for business input during the climate change consultation process last year

“Somehow, despite what Business NZ says is a lack of consultation, the government managed to send out almost 25,000 invitations to consultation events, distribute 9000 consultation documents and 3750 copies of working papers and hold 63 meetings in 24 centres, attended by more than 1500 people. We received 557 submissions, including one from Business NZ as the national organisation representing five major regional business associations.

“Business continues to be provided with information and opportunities for comment in the consultation now under way on the government’s preferred policies on climate change.”

Information supplied during consultation is on www.climatechange.govt.nz

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