Clare Curran
Broadcasting Spokesperson
Communications and IT Spokesperson

27 March 2012

NZ deserves same Internet security as Australia

The National Government’s stonewalling on what it knows about the Chinese company Huawei’s involvement in the roll-out of our ultra-fast broadband raises more questions about cyber security and the integrity of New Zealand’s network than it answers, says Labour’s Communications and IT spokesperson Clare Curran.

“The Government is refusing to explain why it has taken a different decision to the Australian Government when it comes to security matters relating to Huawei’s involvement in broadband projects.

“While the Australian Government has banned Huawei from tendering for any contracts attached to its $36 billion broadband scheme, our Prime Minister blithely says he is ‘comfortable with checks done’ over the security of the New Zealand network.

“The Australians are considered to be a partner in terms of our security and intelligence relationships. If they are concerned enough to ban Huawei from bidding for the broadband contract, why has New Zealand allowed three taxpayer-funded contracts to go ahead without a more robust probe into the implications for the integrity of our network?

“How long have John Key and other ministers known about the extent of Australia’s security concerns and what are they going to do about it? Just saying trust us, it’ll be okay, isn’t good enough.

“Acting Prime Minister Gerry Brownlee is refusing to say whether John Key has been briefed on the reasons for the Australian government’s ban on Huawei for the broadband contracts. He’s also refusing to offer any guarantees about the security of our new broadband network.

“Essentially our government is looking the other way and refusing to take a second look at the contracts that have been given to Huawei despite the intense public interest in this matter.

“The Prime Minister must reassure New Zealanders he is taking this matter seriously. Our international reputation is at stake,” said Clare Curran.

ENDS

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