Member: Commerce, Finance & Expenditure
and Regulations Review Select Committees

David Cunliffe Media Statement
Member of Parliament for Titirangi

8 March 2000

SMITH’S GRANDSTANDING LACKS SUBSTANCE - CUNLIFFE

“Lockwood Smith’s attempt at political grandstanding in a Commerce Committee no confidence motion has no substance and I expect it to fail,” MP David Cunliffe said today.

Dr Smith tabled a motion of no confidence in Mr Cunliffe as Chair following the last week’s meeting, alleging a breach of standing orders regarding the issuing of a media statement.

“Lockwood Smith’s tactics clearly indicate he is having difficulty adjusting to being in opposition,” David Cunliffe said.

“On 24 February I expressed a personal view as to my general hopes for the Commerce Committee. All members of Select Committees have the right to comment on public committee business and issues of general concern.

“That is an entirely different matter from speaking on behalf of the Committee as Chair. Last week, in that capacity, I tabled a draft press statement which was approved by the Committee.

“Lockwood Smith clearly finds it difficult to distinguish between these two processes, but I doubt that the Committee as a whole will have the same problem.

“There is serious work to be done to ensure markets deliver benefit to all New Zealanders and to grow the economic cake for everyone. I hope we can all work cooperatively towards this end”, David Cunliffe said.

Contact: David Cunliffe 04 470 6579

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