Urgency a Mistake

“Pushing through the proposed changes to GCSB legislation under urgency is a mistake,” says Conservative Party Leader Colin Craig. “It’s preventing the opportunity for appropriate debate.”

“So far as these proposed changes to legislation are a clarification of existing arrangements, there is no problem. However, any extension of power is something that needs to be carefully looked at.”

“Civil liberties and the protection of a person’s privacy are essential, and must not be meddled with lightly. These are freedoms we hold dear, they are freedoms New Zealanders believe in, and have fought for.”

“We rely on the government to protect citizens’ privacy and rights. This must include protection from the government itself. It’s worth remembering that throughout history liberties are usually lost one small step at a time, and it’s normally the government that takes liberties away.”

“In an age when personal information is more easily abused than ever, the privacy controls on all parties, including government, need to be strengthened, not weakened.”

“No law relating to security and personal information should be rushed, and if there is any doubt, it should always fall on the side of protecting the individual citizen.”

ENDS

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PM's Statement Prime Deadly Eruption Of Whakaari / White Island Eruption

At this stage, we can confirm that amongst those currently listed as missing or injured are New Zealanders who were part of the tour operation, and tourists from Australia, the United States, the United Kingdom, China and Malaysia. That is to the best of our knowledge.

To those who have lost or are missing family and friends, we share in your unfathomable grief at this moment in time, and in your sorrow. Your loved ones stood alongside kiwis who were hosting you here. We grieve with you, and we grieve with them... More>>

Police Update: Five Confirmed Dead - Eight People Unaccounted For
Work has continued overnight to respond to the eruption on White Island. Enquiries with tour operators indicate that 47 people were on White Island at the time of the eruption. Police can now advise that in addition to the five people confirmed deceased, eight people remain unaccounted for following the eruption. More>>