22 May 2002

“Parliament’s third reading of the Hazardous Substances and New Organisms (Genetically Modified Organisms) Amendment Bill has been remarkable for the petulance of Green MPs,” New Zealand First Leader, Winston Peters said.

“Rather than take a principled stand the Greens walked out taking their votes with them. This is yet another example of inappropriate behaviour from a group with no understanding of our how our democracy works and with no appreciation of the parliamentary process. Sadly it is likely to be a taste of things to come and is a reason why New Zealanders need to be afraid of the influence the Greens may misuse.

“This is clearly electioneering at the expense of the orderly conduct of public business. The Greens are obviously warming up their faithful for their conference and talking up their coalition price. The price is much too high for New Zealanders,” Mr Peters said.

ENDS

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