Racist comments by National MP and talkback host John Banks on his radio show this morning are offensive and should not be tolerated, says Labour ethnic affairs spokesperson Mark Gosche.

Mr Gosche said he would be referring the comments to the race relations' conciliator.

"Whilst we can all be concerned about the prospect of Chinese boat people landing in New Zealand illegally, Mr Banks has a responsibility as a Member of Parliament to rise above this small-minded and crude attempt at humour.

"He treats a serious issue with disdain and does it in an unacceptable manner.

"I believe he owes an apology to all Chinese people here in New Zealand for his ill-considered and racist remarks," Mr Gosche concluded.

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