Andrew Williams MP
Associate Finance spokesperson

4 December 2012

Trans Pacific Partnership Secrecy A Concern For All

New Zealand First today in Parliament found the Government unwilling to answer questions about the secrecy surrounding the Trans Pacific Partnership negotiations or how it would provide jobs for New Zealanders.

Associate Finance spokesperson Andrew Williams says Deputy Prime Minister Bill English’s fudge answers would give cold comfort to New Zealanders.

“The Government refused to provide details on how this agreement would generate jobs for New Zealanders.

“It wouldn’t say categorically that the country’s sovereignty would be protected.

“Nor would the Government say that Pharmac would be bound by harsh new regulations that would push up the cost of drugs and medications.

And the Government could not provide any assurances on two other major issues – the United States would remove agriculture subsidies, or that the TPP would affect film industry incentives.

“All New Zealanders should be concerned at this lack of transparency,” says Mr Williams.

ENDS

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Metservice: Where Will Snow Fall And What To Look Out For

The deep Antarctic air that is expected to sweep across the country this week is bringing very significant weather to many provinces.Here's the official MetService view of the key weather concerns for the country.

MetService Media and Communications Meteorologist Dan Corbett commented,"While snow will be a major issue for those in the South Island, wind and hail will affect many North Island districts."

Snow is expected to fall to sea level, or very near it, from Southland to South Canterbury from late Wednesday into Thursday and Friday. The snow level is expected to rise to 200m from about Christchurch northwards... More>>