17 October 2005

Hon Jim Anderton MP, Progressive Leader

Support for Labour Progressive government welcomed

Jim Anderton welcomes the announcement of the "inner" coalition agreement between Labour and the Progressives, and the other agreements of support in varying forms from the three parties for a Labour-led government.

"It's now time to get on with the important work ahead", said Mr Anderton.

The Labour-Progressives Agreement makes it clear that the respective policy priorities for this term will be announced in the Speech from the Throne, and not through the coalition Agreement.

That Agreement sets the key objectives as continuing to work cooperatively to implement policies for a sustainable and growing economy in a progressive, just and fair society.

"We have had good discussions on policy and the roles that I might play in Cabinet in this term, and the results will be announced in due course", Mr Anderton said, "but first it was necessary to secure support to deliver the votes in the House."

"Reflecting our well-established relationship with Labour, we have confidence that we will manage the interesting period ahead with the appropriate mix of good humour and cooperation."

"The somewhat unusual nature of this government is part of the flexibility necessary for reflecting the election results. We look forward to working positively with the other parties in making progress in government and in the House in order to further the interests and wellbeing of all New Zealanders," Jim Anderton said.

ENDS

The coalition agreement:
http://img.scoop.co.nz/media/pdfs/0510/coalitionagmt.pdf

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