10 May 2000

Greens object to Labour pushing through Tariff bill under urgency

The Green Party says it objects to Government plans to push through a bill under urgency on Thursday to freeze tariffs on imports at current levels.

"Obviously we support the intent of the Bill but believe it should be referred to a select committee to enable interested organisations and members of the public to make submissions on the legislation," said Green Party Co-Leader Rod Donald.

"The Greens have therefore refused to support Labour's request for urgency but the Government has clearly garnered it from elsewhere, presumably New Zealand First.

"We believe everyone concerned about the negative impact of the previous National Government's zero tariff policies or the Labour-Alliance governments determination to negotiate free trade agreements deserves to have their say.

"It wouldn't hurt the Government to allow a short time for the submissions and still have the bill passed before the end of June when the next tariff drop was due to take place.

"I will have a few words for New Zealand First next time they criticise the Greens for supporting legislation which is genuinely urgent," he said.

Rod Donald MP 025 507183

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