Hon David Carter MP
National Party Agriculture Spokesman

07 March 2007

Climate change consultation needs to be longer

National’s Agriculture spokesman, David Carter, is annoyed that public consultation on the Government’s climate change proposals won’t be extended.

Mr Carter attended a forum yesterday, where he says around 300 angry farmers and foresters were told the consultation period would not be extended.

The Labour Government is calling for submissions on its Sustainable Land Management and Climate Change discussion document. Public meetings began in February with submissions due at the end of the month.

“This is a huge issue for farmers, foresters and all New Zealanders. It is important that it is done right,” says Mr Carter.

“What is the rush?

“What is so bad about giving the public an extra four weeks to digest the information and then make a submission?

“This shouldn’t be a sprint to the finish line – surely it is more important to take time to hear the views of all New Zealanders.

“It is arrogant in the extreme for Jim Anderton to refuse to extend the consultation period.

“This is another case of the Labour Government refusing to listen - and a sign it’s already made up its mind up.”

ENDS

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