Richard Prosser MP
Spokesperson for Primary Industries

English Concedes NZ Farms Better Off in NZ Ownership

The government has finally admitted its folly over foreign ownership of New Zealand’s farms, says New Zealand First.

“When questioned in Parliament yesterday, Finance Minister Bill English first parroted the government line that Landcorp buying Crafar farms is not an obvious advantage to Landcorp or the New Zealand economy,” says Spokesperson for Primary Industries Richard Prosser.

“However, Mr English then confirmed what farmers know but the government would not admit, until yesterday. He compared foreign corporate ownership of NZ farms to a fashion trend that came and went, but then revealed his own view that the ‘New Zealand owner-operator model - those who live it and love it - tend to be the only ones who can make money out of NZ farmland’.

“Presumably he doesn't think farms losing money is a good idea, but let’s see the government put that money where their mouths are.

“Ownership of New Zealand property, be it residential or farmland, needs to be restricted to New Zealand citizens and permanent residents only, the end,” says Mr Prosser.

ENDS

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