Grant
ROBERTSON

Finance Spokesperson

17 September 2015 MEDIA STATEMENT

Lochinver is right decision for first time since 2012

The Overseas Investment Office has made the right call in blocking the sale of Lochinver Station but needs to take a similar strong approach to other sales, Labour’s Finance spokesperson Grant Robertson says.

“This is the first time the OIO has blocked a foreign land sale since National changed the criteria in 2012. A lot of sensitive land has gone into the hands of foreign buyers in that time.

“Labour would strengthen overseas investment criteria by creating a publicly-searchable farm sales register, require buyers to have a clear plan to create new jobs and improve productivity and keep them to their word through spot audits.

“It appears the only reason Lochinver was blocked is heightened media attention. It’s unfortunate that other sales without similar attention are being waived through,” Grant Robertson says.

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