Iain LEES-GALLOWAY

Associate Health Spokesperson

1 October  2013                             MEDIA STATEMENT

Key out of step with drink drive stance

The Prime Minister’s comments suggesting that his Government will not support lowering the legal blood-alcohol limit for drivers by way of an Opposition member's bill are unfortunate, says Labour's Associate Health spokesperson Iain Lees-Galloway.

"John Key says National is unlikely to support my Land Transport (Safer Alcohol Limits for Driving) Amendment Bill, but may consider progressing the issue sometime in the future.

"That's a sad way to do politics. It either means National plans to kick for touch again like it did in 2010 or that it will simply oppose everything that Labour promotes. Neither will impress the public.

"The fact is there is no reason for National to keep stalling. We already know that between 2006 and 2008 30 people were killed in accidents where drivers were known to have a blood alcohol content of between 0.05 and 0.08. And we already know that lowering the limit reduces the number of people who drive while heavily intoxicated.

"New Zealand is out of step with almost every other Western nation and it's time to stop dithering.

"Steven Joyce argued in 2010 that a lower limit needed more public acceptance and understanding to be enforceable. At least two thirds of New Zealanders back a lower limit and key organisations like the Automobile Association support the move.

"We have the evidence, we have the support. We just need to take action. The more time that is wasted, the more lives needlessly lost.

“I am keen to work with Members of Parliament to build a majority for my bill - with or without National MPs. It's time to put petty politics aside and get on with the job."

ENDS

© Scoop Media

New Zealand Labour Party

New Zealand's Main Opposition Political Party

The New Zealand Labour Party is the oldest political party in the New Zealand Parliament. Currently the main opposition party the Labour Party Caucus has 34 MPs. Labour is optimistic for New Zealand's future, and with your support we will carry on our work for all Kiwis, and lead New Zealand to that future.

CONTACT NEW ZEALAND LABOUR PARTY

• Facebook

• Twitter - @nzlabour

Trial Over 'Anonymous' Donations: John Banks Resigns As Minister

ACT Leader John Banks today confirmed that he has stood down from his Ministerial positions following today’s decision at the Auckland District Court.

“Last week I indicated to the Prime Minister’s Chief of Staff that I would offer my resignation should the matter relating to my 2010 Mayoral Electoral return be committed to trial,” Mr Banks said...

“I intend to continue in my role as ACT Leader and MP for Epsom, and ACT will continue to support National on matters of confidence and supply. More>>