7 September 2006

Cross Party Consensus needed on Climate Change

There needs to be consensus across political parties on climate change. This was the clear message that came through at today's New Zealand Business Climate Change Dialogue hosted by the Wellington Regional Chamber of Commerce.

"It was encouraging that the Labour, National and Green politicians participating in the event all accepted this", said Chamber CEO, Charles Finny.

"Business needs long term certainty in its investment decisions. Without a cross-party consensus, business will not be able to make the types of long term investment plans that will be required if we are to respond effectively to climate change.

"The dialogue between business and Government needs to continue.

"Business needs to be included in the formation of climate change policy at the outset, and not just invited to respond to Government think pieces. Business needs to be inside the room. We are pleased that there was a clear invitation from Government to this effect.

"The dialogue brought together some of the key players in the Climate Change debate from Government, business and overseas.

"The science was not debated. Participants worked under the assumption that climate change is a problem that requires a policy response.

"Another key issue to emerge was that as part of the need for international cooperation, New Zealand needs to stay close to the Asia Pacific Partnership on Climate Change (AP6) - and once the membership door opens, for New Zealand to think very hard about being part of that", Mr Finny concluded.

Copies of speakers' presentations are on the Chamber's website

ENDS

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