4 May 2009 Media Statement

National out of excuses on ETS

The National Government's last excuse for delaying the Emissions Trading Scheme has disappeared, Labour Climate Change spokesperson Charles Chauvel says

"The Australian Government announcement of its intention to proceed with an ETS today, although slightly delayed, left those continuing to call for further delays exposed as being out of step with our closest trading partner.

"I think the New Zealand Business Council For Sustainable Development said it best when they told a Parliamentary Select Committee that 'lack of emissions trading policy certainty is causing major investment blight," Charles Chauvel said.

"It's clear that investment in this country, and jobs for New Zealanders, are at risk with any further delays in an Emissions Trading Scheme.

"The Government has no credible reason for delaying the ETS and urgent action is now needed to prevent New Zealand from falling further behind the rest of the world.

"The Australian Government is moving forward with an ETS, the American Government is investing in 'green' sustainable jobs, as are many other countries. But unfortunately the New Zealand Government is still, stalling and fumbling around in the dark on this issue," Charles Chauvel said.

ENDS

© Scoop Media