17 March 2006

John Key MP - National Party Finance Spokesman

Aucklanders need fair treatment over road pricing options

Aucklanders need to be fairly treated as options to address the city's roading crisis are examined, says National Finance spokesman John Key.

He says National will carefully examine the Auckland road pricing evaluation released today by the Government.

"We will study this report carefully. In adopting any solution for Auckland, the city's road users need to be brought along as well and be fairly treated.

"It's a delicate balance between the clear need to address the infrastructure deficits evident in Auckland's roading system, and the affordability of any charging regime on motorists.

"It's quite clear New Zealand has an infrastructure deficit, and in Auckland roading is of particular concern.

"Finding solutions to a transport problem that is now reaching crisis proportions will undoubtedly require creative thinking and flexibility.

"The Government has to take its share of responsibility for the current crisis through its failure to fix the Resource Management Act and the passage of the Land Transport Management Act.

"Labour's rejection of private sector involvement in addressing the roading issue through things like public private partnerships, has left Auckland with a mess.

"Now it's going to be left to parties like National to encourage a more open-minded approach."

ENDS

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