Scoop  Parliament

Green Party co-leader Rod Donald today said he was excited at visiting the first trial plantations of industrial hemp when they were planted later this year.

"I am really looking forward to visiting these trials in both the North and South Islands and I am hoping that all growers harvest good yields," he said.

"I am looking forward to seeing the range of products that come out of these trials."

Mr Donald congratulated the Hemp Industries Association for finally getting approval to conduct these trials and he also acknowledged the support given by groups like Federated Farmers.

"I am really pleased that, after years of lobbying, a plant that could offer much to New Zealand farmers is finally being given a fair go," he said.

"It will be a great thing to see these crops in the ground and growing."

Ends

© Scoop Media

 

Parliament Headlines | Politics Headlines | Regional Headlines

Gordon Campbell: On Why Big Spenders Are Not Our Tourism Salvation

Covid and climate change have been changing the face of tourism. That’s why it seemed oddly premature last week for Tourism Minister Stuart to announce that New Zealand isn’t interested in mass tourism any more, or in attracting the sort of budget visitors who “travel around our country on $10 a day eating two-minute noodles.” Instead, New Zealand aims to focus its marketing efforts on attracting wealthy, big spending tourists. “In terms of targeting our marketing spin,” Nash said, “it is unashamedly going to be at … High-quality tourists.” Really? The comments have raised a few eyebrows overseas, and a few hackles here at home. Nash’s comments have also been something of a gift to an Opposition adept at portraying the Ardern government as a bunch of liberal elitists out of touch with ordinary people...
More>>