9 April 2013

"Petrobras Law": Law-Making At Its Worst

The Green Party is calling on the Government to withdraw its proposed ‘Petrobras law’ amendment to the Crown Minerals Act following the release of a legal opinion that shows it breaches the rights to freedom of expression, peaceful assembly and free association enshrined in the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights.

“The Government should not be rushing through a law change that could be in breach of the New Zealand Bill of Rights and international law and has had no public scrutiny,” said Green Party energy spokesperson Gareth Hughes.

“The Government shouldn’t put the business agenda of large overseas multinationals ahead of the legal and human rights of New Zealanders.”

Mr Hughes was responding to comments by Hon. Geoffrey Palmer QC and Peter Williams QC, that Energy Minister Simon Bridge’s proposed changes to the Crown Minerals Bill is an attack on democratic freedoms and breaches international law.

“The Government is pushing this amendment through without proper scrutiny and public input,” said Mr Hughes.

“The Government can withdraw the amendment or return the Bill to Select Committee where public consultation could be conducted. This would also give time for the Attorney General to assess the Bill for consistency with the New Zealand Bill of Rights.

“The Government is set to limit the human rights of New Zealanders without their say, and in the face of legal advice that the amendment breaches international law.”

ENDS

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