Hon David Parker
Minister Responsible for Climate Change Issues

2 April 2008 Media Statement

Key must clarify National’s stance on climate change

Climate Change Minister David Parker today called on National Party leader John Key to reaffirm his commitment to the emissions trading legislation currently before Parliament.

“We’ve heard some more worrying comments from two senior National Party spokespeople casting doubt on whether or not the party takes climate change seriously,” David Parker said.

“Last night on One News, both Maurice Williamson and Lockwood Smith were furiously fudging their answers.

“Neither were able to give a straight answer when asked if they personally recognised the threat of climate change.

“It’s not good enough for National’s transport spokesperson to just pay lip service to the need to tackle climate change, when almost a fifth of our total emissions come from the transport sector.”

David Parker said the damaging episode comes just weeks after National’s energy spokesperson Gerry Brownlee’s ‘sexy coal’ podcast on National’s website was highlighted.

“Mr Brownlee cast into doubt the sincerity of National’s environment spokesperson Nick Smith’s message that New Zealand needs more renewable electricity not more emissions-intensive coal.

“One of the most important pieces of legislation for reducing greenhouse gas emissions is the Climate Change (Emissions Trading and Renewable Preference) Bill presently being considered by select committee,” David Parker said.

“The Labour-led government along with the majority of New Zealanders is concerned about climate change and we are committed to actions to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

“The question everyone’s asking now, is whether National can be trusted to take this important global issue seriously?”

ENDS