9 April 2008

Opposition to FTA welcomed

The Green Party is disappointed that human rights issues seem to have played no part in New Zealand First's opposition to the China preferential trade agreement.

"While obviously we welcome New Zealand First's opposition, we are disappointed that the concentration has been on China's tariffs on New Zealand's agricultural exports," Foreign Affairs Spokesperson Keith Locke says.

"The party has not mentioned China's appalling human rights record, its terrible labour conditions, or the toxic environment in which the goods that come here are manufactured.

"Scenes of protest following the Olympic torch around the world have highlighted the depth of feeling against China's human rights abuses in Tibet.

"We don't care which hat Mr Peters uses - New Zealand First Leader or Foreign Minister - but he should rouse himself and do more to help Tibetans carry their torch to freedom."

ENDS

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