National pushes for immediate Govt action on Iraq

Now that war has begun, the National Party is pledging strong support to New Zealand's traditional friends and allies during a difficult time," says National Party Leader Bill English.

"We also live in hope that the conflict will bring lasting peace and security to Iraq and its neighbours, he says.

"The Government has said it will provide medical support after the war and it's the view of the National Party that if the support is required, it should be sent now.

"It's also timely to urge New Zealanders around the world to carefully consider their personal safety and heed the warnings of our Foreign Affairs.

"Here at home we need to remain vigilant.

"The 'benign' defence environment, as proposed by Helen Clark, is no longer a reality and those who watch our borders need to be on high alert," Mr English says.

"It is with profound sadness the National Party notes the first strike in the Iraqi war.

"Now is not the time for New Zealanders to argue over the rights and wrongs of this conflict, instead we should be sending our thoughts and prayers to the innocent men, women and children caught up in the conflict," Mr English says.

© Scoop Media