17 October 2005

New Zealand First To Provide Supply And Confidence To Labour-Led Government

The Rt Hon Winston Peters today announced that New Zealand First will remain out of coalition government whilst agreeing to a confidence and supply agreement with the Labour-led government.

“The primary consideration for New Zealand First’s caucus and the party board of directors was the need to ensure a durable and stable government.

“To this end, New Zealand First has ensured that the potential for an unstable ‘Mexican standoff’ in Parliament is removed and a clear majority can be established on confidence and supply motions.

“New Zealand First is committed to ensuring that this government will last its full term – to November 2008.

“The agreement provides the opportunity for New Zealand First to deliver to its supporters on a range of key policy initiatives heralded during the 2005 election campaign.

“This is a positive arrangement that highlights the potential of MMP for a party to provide both stable government and deliver to their constituents. We look forward to making this work over the next three years,” concluded Mr Peters.

ENDS

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