John Hayes MP
National Party Associate Foreign Affairs Spokesman

18 October 2006

Peters has no faith in Tokelauans

Winston Peters' decision to appoint a non-Tokelauan as Administrator of Tokelau is a vote of no confidence in Pacific people, says National Party Associate Foreign Affairs spokesman John Hayes.

"There are many suitably able and qualified Tokelauans capable of carrying out this role and serving their people, and all New Zealanders, with distinction.

"Mr Peters' claim that the people of Tokelau can be assured of New Zealand's friendship and support is totally undermined by the Minister's action.

"It is clear that he has no faith that Tokelauans can run their own affairs under the aegis of their special relationship with New Zealand.

"Mr Peters' action demonstrates to the people of Tokelau that he regards their relationship with New Zealand as neither very close nor very special.

"I will work within the National Party to ensure a Tokelauan is appointed to the position upon the election of a National Government," says Mr Hayes.

ENDS

© Scoop Media