Bill English MP
National Party Deputy Leader

20 September 2007

Emissions regime proposals look sound

National Party Deputy Leader Bill English says the climate change framework announced by the Government today is in line with National’s proposals in this area.

“The general approach looks sound and is broadly consistent with the approach National has been advocating over the last year since the release of the Bluegreens environment discussion document.”

National advocated a tradeable emissions permit system.

“The challenge for this framework will be to slow the current rapid rate of growth in emissions.

“National would welcome discussions on policy issues arising from this framework because we want to make sure the impact on consumers, households, and the economy is reasonable.

“Part of the package must be reform of the Resource Management Act to make sure that renewable energy projects can get off the ground more easily.

“National believes the Government has not laid the groundwork for emissions trading over the last eight years. Emissions have risen by 12% since Labour took power, compared with much smaller increases in other countries.

“The proportion of energy derived from renewable sources has fallen, while forestry policies have seen record deforestation.”

ENDS

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