"\u003C!DOCTYPE html\u003E\u003Chtml xmlns:xlink=\u0022http://www.w3.org/1999/xlink\u0022 xmlns:xsi=\u0022http://www.w3.org/2007/XMLSchema-instance\u0022 xmlns:mml=\u0022http://www.w3.org/1998/Math/MathML\u0022\u003E\n  \u003Chead\u003E\n    \u003CMETA http-equiv=\u0022Content-Type\u0022 content=\u0022text/html; charset=utf-16\u0022\u003E\n    \u003Cmeta name=\u0022viewport\u0022 content=\u0022width=device-width, initial-scale=1\u0022\u003E\n  \u003C/head\u003E\n  \u003Cbody style=\u0022font-family:sans-serif; font-size:100%;\u0022\u003E\n    \u003Cdiv class=\u0022HpsHansard\u0022\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000001\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsProceedingHeading\u0022 id=\u00222691b01ea6e544b48c4d6e8081c6bfbf\u0022\u003EThursday, 6 June 2013\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000003\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsSubjectHeading\u0022 id=\u0022b0bdb0d78d4d47d7909cfa737446c446\u0022\u003EThursday, 6 June 2013\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000002\u0022\u003EMr Speaker took the Chair at 2 p.m.\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000004\u0022\u003EPrayers.\u003C/p\u003E\n    \u003C/div\u003E\n    \u003Cdiv class=\u0022HpsHansard\u0022\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000005\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsProceedingHeading\u0022 id=\u00222b07a755e4a54f9f9ac991be307b7b5d\u0022\u003ESpeaker\u2019s Rulings\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000006\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsSubjectHeading\u0022 id=\u002227ab98022f0042cbbcb0166f68ec8f04\u0022\u003EElectoral Act\u2014Registration and Recognition of Political Parties\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u0022e4b09a29-dfd3-42c0-8585-11463bd6077b\u0022 data-id=\u0022d50d7f60aeb54c1ab9c72411227d3412\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000007\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e4b09a29-dfd3-42c0-8585-11463bd6077b\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u0022d50d7f60aeb54c1ab9c72411227d3412\u0022\u003EMr SPEAKER\u003C/span\u003E: Honourable members, as I indicated to the House yesterday, I wrote to the Hon Peter Dunne concerning the recognition of the United Future party under the Standing Orders, the party having been deregistered by the Electoral Commission. I have now had a chance to consider Mr Dunne\u2019s response. He has given me an assurance that his party expects to file an application for re-registration early next week. The Electoral Commission advises that its checks will take some 6 to 8 weeks to finalise. Once the Electoral Commission has done so, I will revisit the matter. In the meantime, the United Future party remains a recognised party under the Standing Orders. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000008\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e4b09a29-dfd3-42c0-8585-11463bd6077b\u0022\u003EThe consequences of loss of recognition are significant, and I consider I should follow fair and proper process in determining this matter. The member and his party should have a reasonable opportunity to put the matter right. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000009\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e4b09a29-dfd3-42c0-8585-11463bd6077b\u0022\u003EThe 2011 change to Standing Order 34(1) was made to deal with a situation that arose in respect of new parties. It is silent on a party that ceases to be registered under the Electoral Act 1993 during the term of a Parliament and it gives the Speaker no express authority to cease to recognise a party on that basis. However, the Speaker is responsible for ruling when such questions of interpretation or application of the Standing Orders arise and for deciding cases not otherwise provided for in the Standing Orders, which I will do if required. I also intend to raise the matter with the Standing Orders Committee for consideration in its review of the Standing Orders. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u002279db8b64-1f9b-4416-9b81-a12963db9cbf\u0022 data-id=\u0022b63143fb4a274aaeac71e656d4980a0f\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000010\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002279db8b64-1f9b-4416-9b81-a12963db9cbf\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u0022b63143fb4a274aaeac71e656d4980a0f\u0022\u003EHon TREVOR MALLARD (Labour\u2014Hutt South):\u003C/span\u003E I raise a point of order, Mr Speaker. I am, it is fair to say, very concerned about the ruling that you have just given. In my view, and in the view of others with whom I have consulted, it is very clear that when a party is no longer a party under the Electoral Act, then it is not a party for the purposes of this House. You are absolutely right\u2014it has significant implications. If you go to Standing Order 34, \u201CRecognition of parties\u201D\u2014Standing Order 34(1)\u2014it is all based on Part 4 of the Electoral Act and parties being recognised under that. If parties are not recognised\u2014and Standing Order 35(1) is something that must happen, and I understand Mr Dunne did not comply with Standing Order 35(1). You had to write to him, which is the wrong way round. He should have told you of his change of circumstances. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000011\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002279db8b64-1f9b-4416-9b81-a12963db9cbf\u0022\u003EThere are several points that I do want to make. The precedents that I know of are two. One is that of Mr Chris Carter. When Mr Carter left the Labour Party, the recognition happened on that day. There was no question of waiting. On that day the Labour Party was, one, stripped of a vote; two, stripped of funding from whips and the deputy leadership; and, three, stripped of party funding. This decision leaves Mr Dunne with $100,000 over and above his entitlement according to the determination for which you are responsible. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000012\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002279db8b64-1f9b-4416-9b81-a12963db9cbf\u0022\u003EThis decision leaves him on the Business Committee, when he should not be a member of that committee according to the Standing Orders of this House. This decision, I presume, will affect the vote this afternoon, when, according to Standing Order 140(1)(a) and (d), he will receive treatment to which he is not entitled. There is no United Future party in this House, and he should be treated in the confidence vote this afternoon as an independent member because he cannot be the member of a party that does not exist, and he accepts that it does not. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000013\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002279db8b64-1f9b-4416-9b81-a12963db9cbf\u0022\u003EI just want to put on the record that I think this is an important test for the Speaker, and I think we have had a decision that is wrong.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u0022e6b4dc55-3561-49a8-a871-ae005354ef90\u0022 data-id=\u0022c36e27bc22f74d32a19e7792a844f869\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000014\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e6b4dc55-3561-49a8-a871-ae005354ef90\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u0022c36e27bc22f74d32a19e7792a844f869\u0022\u003EHon GERRY BROWNLEE (Leader of the House):\u003C/span\u003E It is a very serious matter, and I think it is important that all emotions are laid to one side when discussing these matters. [Interruption] \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000015\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e4b09a29-dfd3-42c0-8585-11463bd6077b\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u002260430934659c48eb924656bcc683c125\u0022\u003EMr SPEAKER\u003C/span\u003E: Order! This is a point of order.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000016\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e6b4dc55-3561-49a8-a871-ae005354ef90\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022b1c720317dc4461bb499676bda563b57\u0022\u003EHon GERRY BROWNLEE\u003C/span\u003E: It is a point of order, and I do expect to be given the same courtesy that Mr Mallard was. I think the interesting point that Mr Mallard misses is that in the section of the Standing Orders that deals entirely with the proceedings of this House and Parliament, Standing Order 34(1) makes it clear that \u201CEvery political party registered under Part 4 of the Electoral Act\u201D\u2014most certainly\u2014for the \u201Cgeneral election or at any subsequent by-election, [where a member may be elected] is entitled to be recognised as a party for parliamentary purposes.\u201D You are quite right to say that it is completely silent on the other matters that Mr Mallard raises. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000017\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e6b4dc55-3561-49a8-a871-ae005354ef90\u0022\u003EWith regard to the analogy with the Hon Chris Carter, he, in fact, chose to leave the Labour Party and, as such, being recognised as an MP, he was able to take with him the resource that is normally collectively applied to a party\u2019s resource. This is not a circumstance like that. The circumstance here is exactly as Standing Order 34(1)\u2014the pre-eminent part of the Standing Order\u2014states. Mr Dunne was elected as a member for the United Future party, a registered party under Part 4 of the Electoral Act at the time of the last general election, and is entitled to be recognised as such.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u00223d49aeac-8adf-497b-9400-ab7bb077bb8d\u0022 data-id=\u002262ab128b52a3429b9f1717f4e75cdf61\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000018\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00223d49aeac-8adf-497b-9400-ab7bb077bb8d\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u002262ab128b52a3429b9f1717f4e75cdf61\u0022\u003ERt Hon WINSTON PETERS (Leader\u2014NZ First):\u003C/span\u003E My point of order\u2014is this microphone going?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000019\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022eebdc35bb1af45fa96e84a8ec9a7ff2b\u0022\u003EHon Members\u003C/span\u003E: No.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000020\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00223d49aeac-8adf-497b-9400-ab7bb077bb8d\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u00221fec237f9dd14219a13bebc256e1da15\u0022\u003ERt Hon WINSTON PETERS\u003C/span\u003E: My point relates to Standing Order 34(4).\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000021\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e6b4dc55-3561-49a8-a871-ae005354ef90\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u00228cca3378c0a145fcb9ed372b16aacad9\u0022\u003EHon Gerry Brownlee\u003C/span\u003E: Can\u2019t hear you.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000022\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022a6c6b59c5e094311b4fd329c32f447ae\u0022\u003EHon Member\u003C/span\u003E: Speak up.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000023\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00223d49aeac-8adf-497b-9400-ab7bb077bb8d\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022c77868e9f3604d09b3a5a1ce37783881\u0022\u003ERt Hon WINSTON PETERS\u003C/span\u003E: I would like to speak up. Perhaps the chap up there at the studio can organise what is going on. If you look at Standing Order 34(4), it refers to\u2014\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000024\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e4b09a29-dfd3-42c0-8585-11463bd6077b\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022ae0eb1f09c8540369348fb0decf895b5\u0022\u003EMr SPEAKER\u003C/span\u003E: Order! The difficulty I am having now is your microphone is not working. It is hard to hear, but I think if the member continues to speak up, I will be able to hear. [Interruption] But I will not be able to hear it if I continue to get interjections from the Labour front bench.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000025\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00221dbd2811-8e58-4ffb-848d-31c0eaa9690a\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022ab987d5710614573a9982064e15958d4\u0022\u003EChris Hipkins\u003C/span\u003E: Point of order, Mr Speaker. Nobody was\u2014\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000026\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e4b09a29-dfd3-42c0-8585-11463bd6077b\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022bb137f2996d34113b2e1ac96926ac489\u0022\u003EMr SPEAKER\u003C/span\u003E: Order! I am on a point of order at the moment.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000027\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00223d49aeac-8adf-497b-9400-ab7bb077bb8d\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022e79ae8c617b54bcf848292ce4c47144d\u0022\u003ERt Hon WINSTON PETERS\u003C/span\u003E: Is this microphone working?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000028\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e6b4dc55-3561-49a8-a871-ae005354ef90\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022c72a91195d034e1a8dbb1fff95e53d85\u0022\u003EHon Gerry Brownlee\u003C/span\u003E: Yes, it is.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000029\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00223d49aeac-8adf-497b-9400-ab7bb077bb8d\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022009f28e136264d04a0e5240f92ed86a3\u0022\u003ERt Hon WINSTON PETERS\u003C/span\u003E: Right, thank you very much. If you look at Standing Order 34(4), it refers to a\u2014[Interruption] Well, I think\u2014[Interruption] \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000030\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e4b09a29-dfd3-42c0-8585-11463bd6077b\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u00229513f8fa8fbf43d69bb8f3da8f759535\u0022\u003EMr SPEAKER\u003C/span\u003E: Order! It is a point of order. It will be heard in silence, and if it is heard in silence, I will have no difficulty hearing the member, even if his microphone is faulty.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000031\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00223d49aeac-8adf-497b-9400-ab7bb077bb8d\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u00224a71621ba7df4f97a0715e43420741ff\u0022\u003ERt Hon WINSTON PETERS\u003C/span\u003E: Thank you, Mr Speaker. If you look at Standing Order 34(4), it refers to a \u201Crecognised party\u201D. To be a recognised party, that party must be registered. The issue comes down to what is the import or the fact of registration, because it is different from the fact and import of deregistration. To nullify that by saying we are going to wait 6 weeks to find out whether the claim by Mr Brownlee and others is meritorious is, I believe, a false reading of the Standing Orders before you. We have suffered in the past from losing a member: losing outside-of-office facilities, outside-of-office staff, parliamentary leadership funding, and parliamentary secretarial staff as of that day, in the same way that was outlined to you in respect of a former member Mr Carter. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000032\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00223d49aeac-8adf-497b-9400-ab7bb077bb8d\u0022\u003EYou are saying that, somehow, you can write to Mr Dunne and find out whether he qualifies sometime in the distant future. With respect, the Electoral Commission has told you that United Future is not registered. I believe you should have acted instantaneously, or, even more important, asked whether it made an inquiry over the last year as to whether that registration was, in fact, legitimate or otherwise. But to give the kind of leniency you envisage now on the basis that you have no real precedent to act upon is, I think, erroneous. Standing Order 34(4) talks about a recognised party. United Future has not been recognised from the time of its deregistration. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u0022f5d71749-ae91-4af7-b2bd-77260398912a\u0022 data-id=\u002274563b209495426cae3537b6a4a7ce8f\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000033\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022f5d71749-ae91-4af7-b2bd-77260398912a\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u002274563b209495426cae3537b6a4a7ce8f\u0022\u003EHon DAVID PARKER (Labour):\u003C/span\u003E Sometimes it is said that the law is an ass, but the law is not that stupid an ass that the phrase in Standing Order 34(1) that says \u201CEvery political party registered under Part 4 of the Electoral Act \u2026\u201D is the test. That is the test. The United Future party is not a party registered under Part 4 of the Electoral Act 1993, and you know that, and that is the end of the matter. In terms of your jurisdiction, you have jurisdiction to accord funding only to parties that are registered under Part 4 of the Electoral Act. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000034\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022f5d71749-ae91-4af7-b2bd-77260398912a\u0022\u003EMy second point is that Mr Horan is now in the same position as Mr Dunne, and Mr Horan does not get the resources that Mr Dunne gets. How is that fair? That is not correct, and I would call upon you to do your duty.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u0022e4b09a29-dfd3-42c0-8585-11463bd6077b\u0022 data-id=\u00220cf7ccf74d4042b784a43e438585bbcf\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000035\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e4b09a29-dfd3-42c0-8585-11463bd6077b\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u00220cf7ccf74d4042b784a43e438585bbcf\u0022\u003EMr SPEAKER\u003C/span\u003E: Order! This is a matter that is serious, but it is also a matter for which there is no precedent. I have decided, after taking advice and giving serious thought to this matter, to allow the member and his party some time to put the matter right. I accept that the points that have been made by Mr Mallard, by the Rt Hon Winston Peters, and by the Hon David Parker are made genuinely, but they are, in fact, challenging a ruling that I have made, and that in itself will lead to disorder. I have made my decision\u2014[Interruption] Order! No. I have made my decision. My decision stands. But\u2014\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000036\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00223d49aeac-8adf-497b-9400-ab7bb077bb8d\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u002257346a6fed174468947e1c7720779ee4\u0022\u003ERt Hon Winston Peters\u003C/span\u003E: A new point of order.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000037\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e4b09a29-dfd3-42c0-8585-11463bd6077b\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u002297b81f4428d2413e9a1e07cb0736edea\u0022\u003EMr SPEAKER\u003C/span\u003E: If the member wishes to raise a fresh point of order, I will hear it.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u00223d49aeac-8adf-497b-9400-ab7bb077bb8d\u0022 data-id=\u0022ddf04252d28e461c9f67ec3e408c4f36\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000038\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00223d49aeac-8adf-497b-9400-ab7bb077bb8d\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u0022ddf04252d28e461c9f67ec3e408c4f36\u0022\u003ERt Hon WINSTON PETERS (Leader\u2014NZ First):\u003C/span\u003E I raise a point of order, Mr Speaker. I, for one, would like to see the legal advice you got upon which you constructed\u2014\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u0022e4b09a29-dfd3-42c0-8585-11463bd6077b\u0022 data-id=\u00228a54d42e014b4b209dbd0efbcb98bbf8\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000039\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e4b09a29-dfd3-42c0-8585-11463bd6077b\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u00228a54d42e014b4b209dbd0efbcb98bbf8\u0022\u003EMr SPEAKER\u003C/span\u003E: Order! That is not a fresh point of order. We are now continuing to litigate a decision I have made. This\u2014[Interruption] Order! I do not want to have to ask members to leave the Chamber, but I will if this matter continues to be relitigated today.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000040\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00221dbd2811-8e58-4ffb-848d-31c0eaa9690a\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022de61e2cc298045ef9330bdc448e86e9c\u0022\u003EChris Hipkins\u003C/span\u003E: Point of order\u2014it is a fresh point of order.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000041\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e4b09a29-dfd3-42c0-8585-11463bd6077b\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u00226c4eb4fecddf438c9d54130875ed14fe\u0022\u003EMr SPEAKER\u003C/span\u003E: If it is a fresh point of order, I will hear it.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u00221dbd2811-8e58-4ffb-848d-31c0eaa9690a\u0022 data-id=\u0022dc817a2874b44f20ad5bba6607e3eef7\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000042\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00221dbd2811-8e58-4ffb-848d-31c0eaa9690a\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u0022dc817a2874b44f20ad5bba6607e3eef7\u0022\u003ECHRIS HIPKINS (Senior Whip\u2014Labour):\u003C/span\u003E I raise a point of order, Mr Speaker. The appropriations under which Parliament expends money are very specific, in that no entity or organisation can expend any money unless it is covered by an appropriation. I just want to seek an assurance from you that you have clarified that the relevant appropriations allow you to make the ruling that you have, because if that money continues to be expended and it is not allowed under the appropriations, then the entire House ends up in some very, very great difficulty.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u0022e4b09a29-dfd3-42c0-8585-11463bd6077b\u0022 data-id=\u002240ffb23c58d74caf995b97d9d9200534\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000043\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e4b09a29-dfd3-42c0-8585-11463bd6077b\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u002240ffb23c58d74caf995b97d9d9200534\u0022\u003EMr SPEAKER\u003C/span\u003E: I can give that member his assurance.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n    \u003C/div\u003E\n    \u003Cdiv class=\u0022HpsHansard\u0022\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000044\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsProceedingHeading\u0022 id=\u0022cbc7cabe87b34d7abc81d32fc776f6f0\u0022\u003EBusiness Statement\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000046\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsSubjectHeading\u0022 id=\u00224245b6eb159a424392145db024e3c29b\u0022\u003EBusiness Statement\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u0022e6b4dc55-3561-49a8-a871-ae005354ef90\u0022 data-id=\u0022ebe7c985f460431c9a0d786573acf515\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000045\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e6b4dc55-3561-49a8-a871-ae005354ef90\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u0022ebe7c985f460431c9a0d786573acf515\u0022\u003EHon GERRY BROWNLEE (Leader of the House):\u003C/span\u003E When the House resumes on Tuesday, 11 June\u2014[Interruption]\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000047\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e4b09a29-dfd3-42c0-8585-11463bd6077b\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u00220c998832ef75420c974df12ecb5897d7\u0022\u003EMr SPEAKER\u003C/span\u003E: Order! This is now the business statement.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000048\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e6b4dc55-3561-49a8-a871-ae005354ef90\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u002226b092198c7d432baeb4d293c6db0abc\u0022\u003EHon GERRY BROWNLEE\u003C/span\u003E: When the House resumes on Tuesday, 11 June the Government will look to conclude the financial review debate on the performance and current operations of Crown entities, State enterprises, and other public organisations and make progress on the Immigration Amendment Bill, the Legal Assistance Amendment Bill, and the State Sector and Public Finance Reform Bill. Tuesday, 11 June will also be extended into the morning of Wednesday, 12 June to allow the Government to progress some non-controversial legislation. On Wednesday Paul Foster-Bell and Claudette Hauiti will deliver their maiden statements at 5.30 p.m. and 5.45 p.m. respectively. Wednesday is also a members\u2019 day.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u002279db8b64-1f9b-4416-9b81-a12963db9cbf\u0022 data-id=\u0022849f55db452f43289b986a32d7cc5e72\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000049\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002279db8b64-1f9b-4416-9b81-a12963db9cbf\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u0022849f55db452f43289b986a32d7cc5e72\u0022\u003EHon TREVOR MALLARD (Labour\u2014Hutt South):\u003C/span\u003E We have no questions to ask. This Parliament is a farce.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u0022e4b09a29-dfd3-42c0-8585-11463bd6077b\u0022 data-id=\u002284b8ba4e6ea648bf896bf27dcb49d074\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000050\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e4b09a29-dfd3-42c0-8585-11463bd6077b\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u002284b8ba4e6ea648bf896bf27dcb49d074\u0022\u003EMr SPEAKER\u003C/span\u003E: No petitions have been delivered. A paper has been\u2014[Interruption] Order!\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000051\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002279db8b64-1f9b-4416-9b81-a12963db9cbf\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022987f10252af84e92a993ad7aaba9ef16\u0022\u003EHon Trevor Mallard\u003C/span\u003E: Looking after your mates.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000052\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e4b09a29-dfd3-42c0-8585-11463bd6077b\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022d7b2d90115a342339da6fbd90d9d661a\u0022\u003EMr SPEAKER\u003C/span\u003E: Order! [Interruption] Order! The Hon Trevor Mallard will stand, withdraw, and apologise for that remark.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u002279db8b64-1f9b-4416-9b81-a12963db9cbf\u0022 data-id=\u0022a97e60d4cf324ed0b265f64b4b1f6bb0\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000053\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002279db8b64-1f9b-4416-9b81-a12963db9cbf\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u0022a97e60d4cf324ed0b265f64b4b1f6bb0\u0022\u003EHon TREVOR MALLARD (Labour\u2014Hutt South):\u003C/span\u003E I will leave the House before I do that. I will not apologise for that.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000054\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002279db8b64-1f9b-4416-9b81-a12963db9cbf\u0022\u003EHon Trevor Mallard withdrew from the Chamber. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n    \u003C/div\u003E\n    \u003Cdiv class=\u0022HpsHansard\u0022\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000055\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsProceedingHeading\u0022 id=\u002216ded82ab5454488b50b68a7cc063558\u0022\u003EPoints of Order\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000056\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsSubjectHeading\u0022 id=\u0022643ac54e700742378a84ebb399cb7885\u0022\u003ESpeaker\u2019s Ruling\u2014Release of Advice\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u0022bb158206-360b-4757-8d72-f7d0994e1fb3\u0022 data-id=\u00220bdf5da897e14b6680ce22c0b59beb65\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000057\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022bb158206-360b-4757-8d72-f7d0994e1fb3\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u00220bdf5da897e14b6680ce22c0b59beb65\u0022\u003EHon BILL ENGLISH (Deputy Prime Minister):\u003C/span\u003E I raise a point of order, Mr Speaker. I rise to make a point of order only because of some of the feeling that has been expressed. The relevant precedent here\u2014not actually to do with parties\u2014was actually, for the benefit of the Opposition, when Harry Duynhoven found that he was technically disqualified from being a member of Parliament. I recall extensive\u2014\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u0022e4b09a29-dfd3-42c0-8585-11463bd6077b\u0022 data-id=\u00222f1c6377a1124710b6215a63c9a03889\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000058\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e4b09a29-dfd3-42c0-8585-11463bd6077b\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u00222f1c6377a1124710b6215a63c9a03889\u0022\u003EMr SPEAKER\u003C/span\u003E: Order! [Interruption] Order! I have ruled on the matter. That matter is now closed.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u00223d49aeac-8adf-497b-9400-ab7bb077bb8d\u0022 data-id=\u002226d402ef8c014fcbb1a3564033f1e7af\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000059\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00223d49aeac-8adf-497b-9400-ab7bb077bb8d\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u002226d402ef8c014fcbb1a3564033f1e7af\u0022\u003ERt Hon WINSTON PETERS (Leader\u2014NZ First):\u003C/span\u003E I raise a point of order, Mr Speaker. New Zealand First wishes you to know that if your ruling is that we cannot see the legal opinion on which you make your judgment, then we are going to boycott this Parliament for the time being.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u0022eb49ee66-7ca7-472d-a4a1-b099fd594dfa\u0022 data-id=\u00227c2098737eef4818a3bfa89b11b0e1bd\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000060\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022eb49ee66-7ca7-472d-a4a1-b099fd594dfa\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u00227c2098737eef4818a3bfa89b11b0e1bd\u0022\u003EDr RUSSEL NORMAN (Co-Leader\u2014Green):\u003C/span\u003E I raise a point of order, Mr Speaker. We have had a very unusual circumstance in the Parliament, which is that the New Zealand First Party has walked out. The reason for walking out that was stated was that you would not release your legal advice for your reasoning with regard to the United Future issue. I would ask you whether you can tell us why you will not release your advice on this issue, because it is a pretty important matter.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u0022e4b09a29-dfd3-42c0-8585-11463bd6077b\u0022 data-id=\u002224cd7ebdab574a0982817e4706c55197\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000061\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e4b09a29-dfd3-42c0-8585-11463bd6077b\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u002224cd7ebdab574a0982817e4706c55197\u0022\u003EMr SPEAKER\u003C/span\u003E: It is not a matter of legal advice; it is a Standing Orders matter.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000062\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022eb49ee66-7ca7-472d-a4a1-b099fd594dfa\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022dc5107964bfa4f69a06161a94e1ba33b\u0022\u003EDr Russel Norman\u003C/span\u003E: Speaking to the point of order\u2014\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000063\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e4b09a29-dfd3-42c0-8585-11463bd6077b\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022646f0e8be159433e840bb2fbd50c186a\u0022\u003EMr SPEAKER\u003C/span\u003E: Order! Speaking to the point of order?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u0022eb49ee66-7ca7-472d-a4a1-b099fd594dfa\u0022 data-id=\u00221d9f5a02b1054ea69505649dc0454e26\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000064\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022eb49ee66-7ca7-472d-a4a1-b099fd594dfa\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u00221d9f5a02b1054ea69505649dc0454e26\u0022\u003EDr RUSSEL NORMAN (Co-Leader\u2014Green):\u003C/span\u003E Well, then, my question is not about legal advice. My question is: what advice has the Speaker received on this issue, and will you release\u2014\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u0022e4b09a29-dfd3-42c0-8585-11463bd6077b\u0022 data-id=\u00222a462f4d87e2407182333355b2235d58\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000065\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e4b09a29-dfd3-42c0-8585-11463bd6077b\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u00222a462f4d87e2407182333355b2235d58\u0022\u003EMr SPEAKER\u003C/span\u003E: Order! The member is now relitigating the issue. The matter is closed. I will answer the question. I have sought substantial advice before making the decision I made earlier. [Interruption] Order!\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u0022eb49ee66-7ca7-472d-a4a1-b099fd594dfa\u0022 data-id=\u00227048cb3ccda6458fae4b593d13b3a916\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000066\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022eb49ee66-7ca7-472d-a4a1-b099fd594dfa\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u00227048cb3ccda6458fae4b593d13b3a916\u0022\u003EDr RUSSEL NORMAN (Co-Leader\u2014Green):\u003C/span\u003E I raise a point of order, Mr Speaker. I am being as polite and direct as I can. My question was: will you release the advice?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u0022e4b09a29-dfd3-42c0-8585-11463bd6077b\u0022 data-id=\u00226c71adc7c599481593fe0c9a397294cb\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000067\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e4b09a29-dfd3-42c0-8585-11463bd6077b\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u00226c71adc7c599481593fe0c9a397294cb\u0022\u003EMr SPEAKER\u003C/span\u003E: No.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u0022f5d71749-ae91-4af7-b2bd-77260398912a\u0022 data-id=\u0022880fe0d699794f46a9b6190e93358508\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000068\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022f5d71749-ae91-4af7-b2bd-77260398912a\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u0022880fe0d699794f46a9b6190e93358508\u0022\u003EHon DAVID PARKER (Labour):\u003C/span\u003E I raise a point of order, Mr Speaker. I would ask that, in the circumstances, you provide us with written reasoning as to how it is that you have found that the United Future party is\u2014\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u0022e4b09a29-dfd3-42c0-8585-11463bd6077b\u0022 data-id=\u00220ff7fa37eaac4bed99f4b120053bb923\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000069\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e4b09a29-dfd3-42c0-8585-11463bd6077b\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u00220ff7fa37eaac4bed99f4b120053bb923\u0022\u003EMr SPEAKER\u003C/span\u003E: Order! [Interruption] Order! The member will resume his seat.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000070\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022f5d71749-ae91-4af7-b2bd-77260398912a\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u00221a2324ea16d74e8298801472fcc4eebb\u0022\u003EHon David Parker\u003C/span\u003E: I have not finished my point of order.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000071\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e4b09a29-dfd3-42c0-8585-11463bd6077b\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u002244be63f826684056b2f8ed00a1be23da\u0022\u003EMr SPEAKER\u003C/span\u003E: The member will resume his seat. The Parliament is being brought to disorder by members continuing to relitigate a ruling I have made earlier. If members continue to do that, I will have no choice but to ask those members to leave the Chamber.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000072\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022f5d71749-ae91-4af7-b2bd-77260398912a\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u00229bf5d787e5d9418e807358f7807b00e1\u0022\u003EHon David Parker\u003C/span\u003E: Point of order, Mr Speaker.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000073\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00221dbd2811-8e58-4ffb-848d-31c0eaa9690a\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u00227b1d3090578541b389bd338c923388c8\u0022\u003EChris Hipkins\u003C/span\u003E: Point of order, Mr Speaker.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000074\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e4b09a29-dfd3-42c0-8585-11463bd6077b\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022a28e75b08ee14ba6ba81f1fd43188cea\u0022\u003EMr SPEAKER\u003C/span\u003E: I will hear from David Parker first, but if it is a continuation, I\u2014\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u0022f5d71749-ae91-4af7-b2bd-77260398912a\u0022 data-id=\u00225881cd61bdb9475eb2890ddeb5a242a4\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000075\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022f5d71749-ae91-4af7-b2bd-77260398912a\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u00225881cd61bdb9475eb2890ddeb5a242a4\u0022\u003EHon DAVID PARKER (Labour):\u003C/span\u003E I raise a point of order, Mr Speaker. My point of order was a new point of order. It was a request that you release reasons as to how it is that you have found that the United Future\u2014\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u0022e4b09a29-dfd3-42c0-8585-11463bd6077b\u0022 data-id=\u0022d71f1e2879f84df785141ac49e568c9c\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000076\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e4b09a29-dfd3-42c0-8585-11463bd6077b\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u0022d71f1e2879f84df785141ac49e568c9c\u0022\u003EMr SPEAKER\u003C/span\u003E: Order! [Interruption] Order! Would the member please resume his seat. My ruling gives the reasons and the justification for my decision. That is the end of the matter.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000077\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00221dbd2811-8e58-4ffb-848d-31c0eaa9690a\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u002219441135de734bb587e4376727e0631e\u0022\u003EChris Hipkins\u003C/span\u003E: Point of order\u2014\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000078\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e4b09a29-dfd3-42c0-8585-11463bd6077b\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022b61a48c1ed194b1abe3db32ac7125209\u0022\u003EMr SPEAKER\u003C/span\u003E: Is it a fresh point of order, or is it concerning a decision I gave earlier?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000079\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00221dbd2811-8e58-4ffb-848d-31c0eaa9690a\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u00224003977bc6d441ffbf0031ba3c550223\u0022\u003EChris Hipkins\u003C/span\u003E: It is a fresh point of order.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000080\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e4b09a29-dfd3-42c0-8585-11463bd6077b\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u00224db6f8dfaa9643c6ad76366b3e55c0a6\u0022\u003EMr SPEAKER\u003C/span\u003E: Is it concerning a decision I gave earlier?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000081\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00221dbd2811-8e58-4ffb-848d-31c0eaa9690a\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u00223ad68fc93a814fdfbef1cc32be675db2\u0022\u003EChris Hipkins\u003C/span\u003E: It is clarifying a clarification that you gave on the ruling.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000082\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e4b09a29-dfd3-42c0-8585-11463bd6077b\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022977af8cff5fc4660af9b6b433919a947\u0022\u003EMr SPEAKER\u003C/span\u003E: Then it is only in that\u2014[Interruption] Order!\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000083\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00221dbd2811-8e58-4ffb-848d-31c0eaa9690a\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022840c32f8b0464ad6b712d66cd637a8a5\u0022\u003EChris Hipkins\u003C/span\u003E: No, no, this is a very important point.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000084\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e4b09a29-dfd3-42c0-8585-11463bd6077b\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u00224357a456ab3c4f92b590908c9dd46e54\u0022\u003EMr SPEAKER\u003C/span\u003E: Order! Then it is a matter of relitigating a decision I have made, and I do not want to have to ask\u2014\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000085\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00221dbd2811-8e58-4ffb-848d-31c0eaa9690a\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022400969cc0c2547f6a9c348185da89a8b\u0022\u003EChris Hipkins\u003C/span\u003E: It\u2019s not relitigating\u2014\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000086\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e4b09a29-dfd3-42c0-8585-11463bd6077b\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u002227a0402deeaa43988b9cf6c44eaf4bd1\u0022\u003EMr SPEAKER\u003C/span\u003E: I will hear the member.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u00221dbd2811-8e58-4ffb-848d-31c0eaa9690a\u0022 data-id=\u0022f5da267b68024cddbc4319919b590be2\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000087\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00221dbd2811-8e58-4ffb-848d-31c0eaa9690a\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u0022f5da267b68024cddbc4319919b590be2\u0022\u003ECHRIS HIPKINS (Senior Whip\u2014Labour):\u003C/span\u003E I raise a point of order, Mr Speaker. I can assure the Speaker that it is not relitigating the decision. In his answer to my earlier point of order, the Speaker indicated that he had received advice that there were no issues with regard to the appropriations. The appropriation I have in front of me states under its scope\u2014and it is on page 110 of the information supporting the estimates\u2014that the scope of the appropriation is limited to funding for the United Future parliamentary party to support its leader\u2019s office. You indicated to me that you had received some legal advice\u2014\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000088\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e4b09a29-dfd3-42c0-8585-11463bd6077b\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022fb917fe2f5f14078856d5f5314624e21\u0022\u003EMr SPEAKER\u003C/span\u003E: No, I did not.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000089\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00221dbd2811-8e58-4ffb-848d-31c0eaa9690a\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u00229eac7006496e4447a0e3bb2e45e8d808\u0022\u003ECHRIS HIPKINS\u003C/span\u003E: \u2014that the decision you had made was not in breach of that.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000090\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e4b09a29-dfd3-42c0-8585-11463bd6077b\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022cd604b84f7bb4292bba3e2244868264b\u0022\u003EMr SPEAKER\u003C/span\u003E: Order!\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000091\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00221dbd2811-8e58-4ffb-848d-31c0eaa9690a\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u00227d3e823c5d1849969a66632802e366e7\u0022\u003ECHRIS HIPKINS\u003C/span\u003E: This is a legal matter. People go to jail for spending money that is not covered by an appropriation.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u0022e4b09a29-dfd3-42c0-8585-11463bd6077b\u0022 data-id=\u0022582a5abeb0234b91b3123fe5cf9ac4be\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000092\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e4b09a29-dfd3-42c0-8585-11463bd6077b\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u0022582a5abeb0234b91b3123fe5cf9ac4be\u0022\u003EMr SPEAKER\u003C/span\u003E: Order! I indicated to the member that I had received advice.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u0022f9c512a8-d532-4ef9-ad51-0fe8d752a893\u0022 data-id=\u00227a9a573f1dc94a688ff2462e85bbd8ad\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000093\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022f9c512a8-d532-4ef9-ad51-0fe8d752a893\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u00227a9a573f1dc94a688ff2462e85bbd8ad\u0022\u003EHon CLAYTON COSGROVE (Labour):\u003C/span\u003E I raise a point of order, Mr Speaker. In a general\u2014\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000094\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e6b4dc55-3561-49a8-a871-ae005354ef90\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022bd20a24525594278a9b8a1225202f09d\u0022\u003EHon Gerry Brownlee\u003C/span\u003E: \u201CPick me, pick me, pick me.\u201D\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000095\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022f9c512a8-d532-4ef9-ad51-0fe8d752a893\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022e31e691147834514ac9b40d64b4f5eb6\u0022\u003EHon CLAYTON COSGROVE\u003C/span\u003E: Bad lunch, was it, Gerry?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000096\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e4b09a29-dfd3-42c0-8585-11463bd6077b\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022d9f07b1cea964022890731f2787efcd6\u0022\u003EMr SPEAKER\u003C/span\u003E: Order! This point of order will be heard in silence.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000097\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022f9c512a8-d532-4ef9-ad51-0fe8d752a893\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u00228aeb00c57d884f80af60a696968e47be\u0022\u003EHon CLAYTON COSGROVE\u003C/span\u003E: Thank you, Mr Speaker. In a general sense, could you indicate for the benefit of the House whether there is any Standing Order or Speaker\u2019s ruling that, if you were of a mind to, would prevent you from releasing any advice on a particular matter to the House that you have ruled on?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u0022e4b09a29-dfd3-42c0-8585-11463bd6077b\u0022 data-id=\u00220e8a9d1cb4e247a7b59c5c591fae387e\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000098\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e4b09a29-dfd3-42c0-8585-11463bd6077b\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u00220e8a9d1cb4e247a7b59c5c591fae387e\u0022\u003EMr SPEAKER\u003C/span\u003E: I am not aware of any Standing Order that would prevent me from doing so.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n    \u003C/div\u003E\n    \u003Cdiv class=\u0022HpsHansard\u0022\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000099\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsProceedingHeading\u0022 id=\u0022b09a10fc8142430ca517759ee90c8329\u0022\u003EQuestions for Oral Answer\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000100\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsSubjectHeading\u0022 id=\u0022286757995be741a29b1edb17d63178d5\u0022\u003EQuestions to Ministers\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000101\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsSubjectHeading\u0022 id=\u002293195977d1084b089fbcedc3a873e137\u0022\u003EBudget 2013\u2014Affordable and Social Housing Initiatives\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u0022c0f78f60-c2fd-46f4-8138-72f39692fc20\u0022 data-id=\u00220b962b68fb8941b39140a4d4578f7cd4\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000102\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022c0f78f60-c2fd-46f4-8138-72f39692fc20\u0022\u003E1. \u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u00220b962b68fb8941b39140a4d4578f7cd4\u0022\u003ETODD McCLAY (National\u2014Rotorua)\u003C/span\u003E to the Minister of Finance: What measures did the Budget set out in order to address issues of housing affordability in New Zealand?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u0022bb158206-360b-4757-8d72-f7d0994e1fb3\u0022 data-id=\u0022bd6b05c3b5c744efa2e968be3133281b\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000103\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022bb158206-360b-4757-8d72-f7d0994e1fb3\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u0022bd6b05c3b5c744efa2e968be3133281b\u0022\u003EHon BILL ENGLISH (Minister of Finance):\u003C/span\u003E The Government is concerned about housing affordability because of the potential impact of rising house prices on the broader economy and because of the inherent unfairness of planning law that locks low and middle income New Zealanders out of the housing market in our larger cities. The Government has worked with local councils to create accords aimed at giving councils the tool kit to improve housing affordability. The first accord is being negotiated with Auckland Council, and special housing areas are expected to be designated later this year. The accord targets 39,000 new homes in Auckland over the next 3 years. The legislation is before the House and being debated.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000104\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022c0f78f60-c2fd-46f4-8138-72f39692fc20\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u00222a84fd100b4f45d79d8d1528bbcbd1be\u0022\u003ETodd McClay\u003C/span\u003E: What other measures did the Government take in the Budget to help improve the provision of affordable housing?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000105\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022bb158206-360b-4757-8d72-f7d0994e1fb3\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u002299dce3d6bbda46b8a1d36cd2d83db743\u0022\u003EHon BILL ENGLISH\u003C/span\u003E: The Government introduced the Housing Accords and Special Housing Areas Bill. It also introduced the Social Housing Reform (Housing Restructuring and Tenancy Matters Amendment) Bill. The Social Housing Reform (Housing Restructuring and Tenancy Matters Amendment) Bill will extend income-related rents to community housing providers, and transfer needs assessment to the Ministry of Social Development. We have some way to go to repair the damage done by Labour to State housing in New Zealand.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000106\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022f5d71749-ae91-4af7-b2bd-77260398912a\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u00224ecd79316b5b4c4e8afe9d025efdfc24\u0022\u003EHon David Parker\u003C/span\u003E: Is it correct that the Budget referred to in the primary question was passed with the support of Mr Banks, who is currently facing charges for electoral fraud in the courts, and by Mr Dunne, who is no longer the leader of a legal party, who is still receiving funding from the Budget that he passed as the leader of a party?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000107\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022bb158206-360b-4757-8d72-f7d0994e1fb3\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u002205a7b49ea8254d81b97de9a6564c9ea1\u0022\u003EHon BILL ENGLISH\u003C/span\u003E: The Budget actually has not passed yet. I expect it will\u2014[Interruption]\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000108\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e4b09a29-dfd3-42c0-8585-11463bd6077b\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022d60903c243494f679ef7ec872074971b\u0022\u003EMr SPEAKER\u003C/span\u003E: Order! The member asked a question; he now deserves to have it answered.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000109\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022bb158206-360b-4757-8d72-f7d0994e1fb3\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022602a63353fe84ca1a7210504cf192e41\u0022\u003EHon BILL ENGLISH\u003C/span\u003E: I expect the Budget will enjoy a comfortable majority in this House, as it enjoys broad support from the public.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000110\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022c0f78f60-c2fd-46f4-8138-72f39692fc20\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022aa438f4c6e6140a0bafa43fa0524eed6\u0022\u003ETodd McClay\u003C/span\u003E: What is the likely impact of the Government\u2019s measures on house prices across New Zealand?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000111\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022bb158206-360b-4757-8d72-f7d0994e1fb3\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022986221123d1e4d749490d83cd4383f41\u0022\u003EHon BILL ENGLISH\u003C/span\u003E: The Government\u2019s measures are aimed at increasing the supply of housing to the market. We would like to see an effect on the market reasonably quickly. However, it will take some time to work through the processes with councils, and, of course, to ramp up construction from the currently very low levels in Auckland, at around some 5,000 houses a year, to achieve 39,000 houses over the next 3 years. We would imagine that over the next 2 years or 3 years it will have some positive impact on fast-rising house prices.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000112\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022f5d71749-ae91-4af7-b2bd-77260398912a\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022e8fc9e8d26e9457cbd543e90cc0a1435\u0022\u003EHon David Parker\u003C/span\u003E: Given that the International Monetary Fund, the OECD, the Reserve Bank, and Treasury all support taxation of capital gains, why does he believe he is right and these organisations are wrong?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000113\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022bb158206-360b-4757-8d72-f7d0994e1fb3\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022d2e6e8ea1ef3422fb8eba8e945117fd0\u0022\u003EHon BILL ENGLISH\u003C/span\u003E: As I pointed out to the member yesterday, those organisations advocate a comprehensive capital gains tax. The Opposition advocates a capital gains tax that exempts most housing. We have discussed in the past in this House the merits\u2014\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000114\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022f5d71749-ae91-4af7-b2bd-77260398912a\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u00227da2cbd0d1304490a111815c90ae66da\u0022\u003EHon David Parker\u003C/span\u003E: I raise a point of order, Mr Speaker. My question was not about Labour Party policy. My question was why it is that the Minister of Finance refuses to adopt a capital gains tax when it is recommended by those other bodies.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000115\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e4b09a29-dfd3-42c0-8585-11463bd6077b\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u002256247cff07a34848b4817949395e3dfd\u0022\u003EMr SPEAKER\u003C/span\u003E: And I thought the Minister was halfway through an answer that was explaining that. Would the Minister please continue.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000116\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022bb158206-360b-4757-8d72-f7d0994e1fb3\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022acb6b926604b4a50903b5a652bc9db69\u0022\u003EHon BILL ENGLISH\u003C/span\u003E: The Government supports the existing capital gains tax that applies to those who trade in property, and is enforcing that rigorously. It does not support a comprehensive capital gains tax that includes families paying tax on the gains in the value of their house every year. We do not support that, and nor does the Opposition.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000117\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022f5d71749-ae91-4af7-b2bd-77260398912a\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022b229525e2d784a4cb7efaac5ec8373e1\u0022\u003EHon David Parker\u003C/span\u003E: Why does he think it is fair to tax income from wages but not tax income earned from capital gains?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000118\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022bb158206-360b-4757-8d72-f7d0994e1fb3\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u00224e1c4e33ac3544a3a57c9708499d5507\u0022\u003EHon BILL ENGLISH\u003C/span\u003E: What happens in the New Zealand tax system is that capital gain from trading is taxed alongside wages. Of course, what the member forgets is that a lot of the people who earn wages see their wealth as being in their house. That is why he, like the Government, does not support a capital gains tax on the family home. What we do support is changing the planning laws to increase the supply of housing, because one of the fundamental unfairnesses in New Zealand is that if you have a high-value house and you are already in the market, you enjoy the benefits of compact city planning, but if you are outside the housing market, you are cut out of housing altogether.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000119\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022c0f78f60-c2fd-46f4-8138-72f39692fc20\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022ecac789ed695492fa151c1afa3c21430\u0022\u003ETodd McClay\u003C/span\u003E: What are some of the risks to the economy from unsustainable increases in house prices and excessive credit growth?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000120\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022bb158206-360b-4757-8d72-f7d0994e1fb3\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u00224709b8ae81b54e449b2aa220aabe4c87\u0022\u003EHon BILL ENGLISH\u003C/span\u003E: We have only got to look at economies like Ireland, Spain, and the US to see what happens when property prices rise excessively and then the bubble bursts. It is important that we avoid these if we possibly can. On the way up, fast-rising house prices tend to push interest rates up higher than they otherwise would be and push the exchange rate up. When the bubble bursts, you get significant damage for those households that lose the value of their asset, and a banking system that could be put at risk.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000121\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsSubjectHeading\u0022 id=\u00228e2f86222d554005adf1e264ac16fc04\u0022\u003EPrivacy Issues\u2014Information Security in Government Agencies\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u0022c699e7c6-53b9-470c-a14a-378cb6fc8a04\u0022 data-id=\u00226d0556317c5448f9a2979a9f64ed8f03\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000122\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022c699e7c6-53b9-470c-a14a-378cb6fc8a04\u0022\u003E2. \u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u00226d0556317c5448f9a2979a9f64ed8f03\u0022\u003EHon PHIL GOFF (Labour\u2014Mt Roskill)\u003C/span\u003E to the Minister of State Services: What responsibility does he or his Government take for 73 percent of public sector agencies not having formal security standards and procedures to protect private information about New Zealanders, as the report yesterday to the State Services Commissioner shows?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u0022603ae58e-47c4-46f9-bfc8-8355a48988ad\u0022 data-id=\u002255db9f04c07e46ada160b1c998c42ee2\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000123\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022603ae58e-47c4-46f9-bfc8-8355a48988ad\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u002255db9f04c07e46ada160b1c998c42ee2\u0022\u003EHon Dr JONATHAN COLEMAN (Minister of State Services):\u003C/span\u003E We are taking responsibility. Successive Governments have not ensured that public sector agencies have focused on technology or privacy as a priority, and the figure the member quotes is a reflection of that. We are changing that. As laid out in the Cabinet papers and press conference yesterday, the Government has commissioned an extensive work programme to address this long-term problem. It is under this Government that we have increased the powers of the Government Chief Information Officer by giving him a leadership role across the State sector and significantly increasing the resourcing of the Government Chief Information Officer. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000124\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022c699e7c6-53b9-470c-a14a-378cb6fc8a04\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022135d56663f544b90b436c167850bb066\u0022\u003EHon Phil Goff\u003C/span\u003E: Why does the Prime Minister continue to deny that there are systemic problems with regard to the protection of people\u2019s privacy in public sector agencies when this KPMG report explicitly shows a lack of good security and privacy practice right across the State sector and when the Privacy Commissioner, Marie Shroff, is adamant that privacy breaches absolutely reflect systemic problems?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000125\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022603ae58e-47c4-46f9-bfc8-8355a48988ad\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u00223f4c79d1387343ce8ddffd3dc84ef2ee\u0022\u003EHon Dr JONATHAN COLEMAN\u003C/span\u003E: I would refer the member to the Government Chief Information Officer\u2019s interview on Radio New Zealand this morning, when he was saying that a systemic problem is when the system actually is not working. That is not the case we have now. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000126\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022c699e7c6-53b9-470c-a14a-378cb6fc8a04\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022f55db06506094e039f0306d228fe669a\u0022\u003EHon Phil Goff\u003C/span\u003E: Was the Government employee the Government Chief Information Officer as accurate in that comment as he was about New Zealanders having trust and confidence in the Government\u2019s ability to protect their personal details, when Colmar Brunton said 60 percent of New Zealanders have no trust in the Government to do that?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000127\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022603ae58e-47c4-46f9-bfc8-8355a48988ad\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022419d75a6b2f24e27b3a8dfdc758c1193\u0022\u003EHon Dr JONATHAN COLEMAN\u003C/span\u003E: Well, I would point out that this is a member who constantly seeks to access Defence Force information\u2014\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000128\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022c699e7c6-53b9-470c-a14a-378cb6fc8a04\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u002249d276e5332a4668b3c905e0c513af41\u0022\u003EHon Phil Goff\u003C/span\u003E: I raise a point of order, Mr Speaker. Your attention has been distracted. I asked a question of the Minister. He is not answering the question; he is attacking me. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000129\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e4b09a29-dfd3-42c0-8585-11463bd6077b\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u002257a4ca40f67240a5a6e1e6dbd91ea209\u0022\u003EMr SPEAKER\u003C/span\u003E: Could the Minister just address the question. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000130\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022603ae58e-47c4-46f9-bfc8-8355a48988ad\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u002250fc40ccffcc46c7943892d1a4df5cd3\u0022\u003EHon Dr JONATHAN COLEMAN\u003C/span\u003E: The member\u2019s question was about confidence in the security of information, and I would point out that this is a member who constantly seeks\u2014\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000131\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e4b09a29-dfd3-42c0-8585-11463bd6077b\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u00227666bf69e7de4094ba45fc43f844788a\u0022\u003EMr SPEAKER\u003C/span\u003E: Order! Can the Minister please just address the question that was asked. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000132\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022603ae58e-47c4-46f9-bfc8-8355a48988ad\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u002251654b2f708a4516920abf19c617d031\u0022\u003EHon Dr JONATHAN COLEMAN\u003C/span\u003E: I do not agree with his assertions. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000133\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022c699e7c6-53b9-470c-a14a-378cb6fc8a04\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u002203eda19e9e6c4551a87df1dd1eac90c1\u0022\u003EHon Phil Goff\u003C/span\u003E: How do privacy breaches affecting over 120,000 individual New Zealanders in the last 2 years alone not constitute a systemic problem?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000134\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022603ae58e-47c4-46f9-bfc8-8355a48988ad\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022fd04187cb5444642a29c307644169a65\u0022\u003EHon Dr JONATHAN COLEMAN\u003C/span\u003E: Well, as I said, I do not agree with the assertions he is making around this. There is work to be done around privacy, and the Government has a very clear programme of work under way to address these issues. But I might note that nothing happened during the term of the last Labour Government in this regard. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000135\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022c699e7c6-53b9-470c-a14a-378cb6fc8a04\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u002250f4ea158c8f4c7e8ebd914bd2d3ce4a\u0022\u003EHon Phil Goff\u003C/span\u003E: I raise a point of order, Mr Speaker. My question related to 120,000 personal breaches of information in the last 2 years. I did not ask him about 4 years ago, 6 years ago, or 10 years ago. Can I get him to focus on those breaches over the last 2 years. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000136\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e4b09a29-dfd3-42c0-8585-11463bd6077b\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u00220443eed617ec41c999c3bb6a7bdbafc0\u0022\u003EMr SPEAKER\u003C/span\u003E: Order! The member asked whether that then constitutes systemic failure, and the Minister said he does not agree with that. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000137\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022c699e7c6-53b9-470c-a14a-378cb6fc8a04\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022c20d8f54742c421da7e33f5b6f420e2d\u0022\u003EHon Phil Goff\u003C/span\u003E: Why should any New Zealander feel confident that Government agencies are able to protect private details about them when the Government Chief Information Officer has warned that the reason that only 12 agencies were identified as having serious security weaknesses was that the others did not even have the reporting processes that would enable them to know whether or not they had a problem?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000138\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022603ae58e-47c4-46f9-bfc8-8355a48988ad\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022433bf67d49ba42cf962a0cf0cedef432\u0022\u003EHon Dr JONATHAN COLEMAN\u003C/span\u003E: The reason they should feel confident is that, as we described yesterday, we have laid out a very clear programme of work to address these issues. We are strengthening up the mandate of the Government Chief Information Officer and we are going to make sure that public sector chief executives are very focused on IT security and management. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000139\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022c699e7c6-53b9-470c-a14a-378cb6fc8a04\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022af36d9cf0ca04207b17991d7eb7da087\u0022\u003EHon Phil Goff\u003C/span\u003E: Is the lack of comprehensive\u2014[Interruption] If Mr Banks would stop interjecting\u2014\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000140\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e4b09a29-dfd3-42c0-8585-11463bd6077b\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u00229f68f20f2a134c52a62c00a2ae493d65\u0022\u003EMr SPEAKER\u003C/span\u003E: Order! [Interruption] Order! Would the member please start his question again.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000141\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022c699e7c6-53b9-470c-a14a-378cb6fc8a04\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u00222710857ff27949d194b3aba837243e23\u0022\u003EHon Phil Goff\u003C/span\u003E: Is the lack of comprehensive security systems protecting privacy compounded by a lack of integrity at the top of the system, which led former National Party president Michelle Boag to state, in relation to Judith Collins: \u201CWhen you can\u2019t send a communication to a Government Minister without fearing that the privacy of that communication is going to be threatened, that\u2019s very \u2026 dangerous.\u201D?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000142\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022603ae58e-47c4-46f9-bfc8-8355a48988ad\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022fbf27a8204cf428d9a4bd06e65e63cdf\u0022\u003EHon Dr JONATHAN COLEMAN\u003C/span\u003E: What I can say regarding privacy of communications is that that member was sent details of a dead soldier, which he then distributed\u2014\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000143\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022c699e7c6-53b9-470c-a14a-378cb6fc8a04\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022798967bcb4b04277a464661ce2d63f89\u0022\u003EHon Phil Goff\u003C/span\u003E: I raise a point of order, Mr Speaker.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000144\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e4b09a29-dfd3-42c0-8585-11463bd6077b\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u002209eadf842ae64d5cb64b274fc46dac11\u0022\u003EMr SPEAKER\u003C/span\u003E: That is not a helpful answer. It was a very political question, which I accept. I ask the Minister to make an attempt to address it.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000145\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022603ae58e-47c4-46f9-bfc8-8355a48988ad\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022da3cad9152034a039bf18052ae58a683\u0022\u003EHon Dr JONATHAN COLEMAN\u003C/span\u003E: I raise a point of order, Mr Speaker. [Interruption] \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000146\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e4b09a29-dfd3-42c0-8585-11463bd6077b\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022cc65f7e9b53c48168882c136c980d160\u0022\u003EMr SPEAKER\u003C/span\u003E: Order! This is a point of order, and it will be heard in silence.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000147\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022603ae58e-47c4-46f9-bfc8-8355a48988ad\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u002267bd985eae844573b691f1f4ccd8fd32\u0022\u003EHon Dr JONATHAN COLEMAN\u003C/span\u003E: There is a well-established precedent here that when you ask a political question, especially one attacking a political colleague, you will get back as good as you give. That is the firmly established practice. So if you want to change that, you should make a new ruling.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000148\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e4b09a29-dfd3-42c0-8585-11463bd6077b\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u00224e0b8374626a454989980e201525b941\u0022\u003EMr SPEAKER\u003C/span\u003E: I am not proposing to change that. [Interruption] Order! I am not proposing to change that. I am asking the Minister to please address the question.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000149\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022603ae58e-47c4-46f9-bfc8-8355a48988ad\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u002251648c032ce34034bf96833e587803a2\u0022\u003EHon Dr JONATHAN COLEMAN\u003C/span\u003E: This member talks about the leaking of communications\u2014\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000150\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022c699e7c6-53b9-470c-a14a-378cb6fc8a04\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u00221aff766645c84967af290b9cc5be3b21\u0022\u003EHon Phil Goff\u003C/span\u003E: I raise a point of order, Mr Speaker. You do not answer a question by starting with an attack on the questioner.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000151\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e4b09a29-dfd3-42c0-8585-11463bd6077b\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u00224414b0af556c42a6ace9058f316cd1e2\u0022\u003EMr SPEAKER\u003C/span\u003E: Order! If the member Mr Goff wants to hear an answer, then he will hear the answer. If he does not now want an answer, we will move on.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000152\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022603ae58e-47c4-46f9-bfc8-8355a48988ad\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022d7865c3f4df04791b360399a636bc1d7\u0022\u003EHon Dr JONATHAN COLEMAN\u003C/span\u003E: This member raised points about the leaking of confidential information, and, indeed, that often is a problem across the public sector. I would point out that the member\u2019s form with regard to using illegal channels to access Defence Force information and, furthermore, leaking the details of a deceased soldier\u2014\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000153\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022c699e7c6-53b9-470c-a14a-378cb6fc8a04\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u00228ac80db678004517bd6240a657e056d8\u0022\u003EHon Phil Goff\u003C/span\u003E: I raise a point of order, Mr Speaker. [Interruption] I did call for a point of order, and Gerry Brownlee, who is Leader of the House, continues to interject during it.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000154\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e4b09a29-dfd3-42c0-8585-11463bd6077b\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022376c1df3329f45c4bb003762ad528bef\u0022\u003EMr SPEAKER\u003C/span\u003E: We are still waiting to hear the point of order.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000155\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022c699e7c6-53b9-470c-a14a-378cb6fc8a04\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u00220e0f0c25ab0d451bae1ac883f127c2aa\u0022\u003EHon Phil Goff\u003C/span\u003E: Well, I will give it when you bring the House to order, because that is what the Standing Orders require of you.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000156\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e4b09a29-dfd3-42c0-8585-11463bd6077b\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022db3139137837483ab976d1209c86810b\u0022\u003EMr SPEAKER\u003C/span\u003E: If the member wants to make his point of order he will make it immediately, otherwise I am moving to the next question.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000157\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022f5d71749-ae91-4af7-b2bd-77260398912a\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022dca221ed2c1347bbbaf2e689f6cbf4f7\u0022\u003EHon David Parker\u003C/span\u003E: I raise a point of order, Mr Speaker. It is a Standing Order, which until now has been enforced, that points of order are meant to be heard in silence. That was the point that Mr Goff was making, and it was a fair point. I would ask that you respect his point of order.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000158\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e4b09a29-dfd3-42c0-8585-11463bd6077b\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u00228c65ed0773944b57a5b09a82b6bfa6ef\u0022\u003EMr SPEAKER\u003C/span\u003E: I called the member to make his point of order, if he wanted to do so.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000159\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022c699e7c6-53b9-470c-a14a-378cb6fc8a04\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022e7b04324d00b4a16a13dd5c0c9f0c7f5\u0022\u003EHon Phil Goff\u003C/span\u003E: I take offence at the comment made by the Minister, which is quite untrue. I never leaked the details relating to the privacy of any dead soldier. I take offence at that, and I ask him to withdraw and apologise for making it.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000160\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e4b09a29-dfd3-42c0-8585-11463bd6077b\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u002271100855d37b45a0a82d78afaaa1855f\u0022\u003EMr SPEAKER\u003C/span\u003E: Order! If the member has taken offence, then would the Minister please stand, withdraw, and apologise because the member has taken offence.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000161\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022603ae58e-47c4-46f9-bfc8-8355a48988ad\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u002211f541341f45494eaf5b5954ce20074a\u0022\u003EHon Dr JONATHAN COLEMAN\u003C/span\u003E: I raise a point of order, Mr Speaker.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000162\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e4b09a29-dfd3-42c0-8585-11463bd6077b\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022461b7b74c269423ea45a100698aab714\u0022\u003EMr SPEAKER\u003C/span\u003E: No, the member will please\u2014\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000163\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022603ae58e-47c4-46f9-bfc8-8355a48988ad\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u00227d35ed1af7b24b628bed58f6ca1a79e8\u0022\u003EHon Dr JONATHAN COLEMAN\u003C/span\u003E: I withdraw and apologise.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000164\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e4b09a29-dfd3-42c0-8585-11463bd6077b\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u00220e12ea402dfb41c3a83f6ecb25f52938\u0022\u003EMr SPEAKER\u003C/span\u003E: Thank you.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000165\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022f9c512a8-d532-4ef9-ad51-0fe8d752a893\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022479f0be244c34ff7a9f36af08e882a2b\u0022\u003EHon Clayton Cosgrove\u003C/span\u003E: I raise a point of order, Mr Speaker. With respect, you invited Mr Goff to make his point of order, and throughout that point of order Mr Banks constantly interjected, and again you did nothing.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000166\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e4b09a29-dfd3-42c0-8585-11463bd6077b\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u00225fbc27e26e6a4171974f539f07917e43\u0022\u003EMr SPEAKER\u003C/span\u003E: I did not hear the interjection. [Interruption] Order!\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000167\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022f9c512a8-d532-4ef9-ad51-0fe8d752a893\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022a91aeb24546e4c91acd518bd73f6cfa0\u0022\u003EHon Clayton Cosgrove\u003C/span\u003E: I raise a point of order, Mr Speaker. Could I suggest maybe the technicians need to look at the sound system because, with respect, it appears quite genuinely that there is a sound problem. You appear to be able to hear everything on this side of the House, but nothing on that side.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000168\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e4b09a29-dfd3-42c0-8585-11463bd6077b\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022d343a85cb9e54a2e8b9f5683b5c00e5c\u0022\u003EMr SPEAKER\u003C/span\u003E: If the member continues to make that sort of point of order, he will be leaving the Chamber.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000169\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022b53f8451-a5f8-4e92-851f-9ca381f19343\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022ace855da3bc74146b961e2de08407515\u0022\u003EHon John Banks\u003C/span\u003E: I raise a point of order, Mr Speaker. During the narrative, the member over there the Very Reverend Dr Clark made a disgraceful across-the-House abuse at my bench mate, which was insulting and demeaning to the whole of Parliament. Could you drag him back in and get him to withdraw and apologise.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000170\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e4b09a29-dfd3-42c0-8585-11463bd6077b\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022f1c8a25f69df469283f91a9127d20b3b\u0022\u003EMr SPEAKER\u003C/span\u003E: I am looking for the member. He is not here so I cannot drag him back in. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000171\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022490ccdbf-7c22-4e12-98f2-f3aa08f8e676\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u00229a3996ad67ab4d948c2c07ebf24e6a92\u0022\u003EIain Lees-Galloway\u003C/span\u003E: I raise a point of order, Mr Speaker. [Interruption] \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000172\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e4b09a29-dfd3-42c0-8585-11463bd6077b\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u002203696641cfdf4b8ebaee117a676097d8\u0022\u003EMr SPEAKER\u003C/span\u003E: Order! This is getting to the stage where we are having points of order that are now frivolous. If it is a serious point of order, I will hear it. But if I conclude it is a frivolous one, then I will be asking any member who raises a frivolous point of order to leave the Chamber. Does the member wish to continue?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000173\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022490ccdbf-7c22-4e12-98f2-f3aa08f8e676\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022bacd360bb8034837b6fa3112c5ab6346\u0022\u003EIain Lees-Galloway\u003C/span\u003E: The Minister Jonathan Coleman quite clearly called a member on this side of the House a coward. That is well outside of the Standing Orders and I expect him to withdraw and apologise for that comment.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000174\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e4b09a29-dfd3-42c0-8585-11463bd6077b\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u002208755fdee908424ab4aaa49c7fcd6ec3\u0022\u003EMr SPEAKER\u003C/span\u003E: Again, I did not hear it, but if the Hon Jonathan Coleman did do that\u2014\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000175\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022603ae58e-47c4-46f9-bfc8-8355a48988ad\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022ae1f1f3237cf4c00bec51ea251dbd25a\u0022\u003EHon Dr Jonathan Coleman\u003C/span\u003E: I raise a point of order, Mr Speaker. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000176\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e4b09a29-dfd3-42c0-8585-11463bd6077b\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u002227f722fa44704c6fbe37e72a446b9d83\u0022\u003EMr SPEAKER\u003C/span\u003E: Order! If the Minister did yell across the House calling someone a coward, he will stand, withdraw, and apologise.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000177\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022603ae58e-47c4-46f9-bfc8-8355a48988ad\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u00220df99bfaec6a4e8b8984d4011eb8ee47\u0022\u003EHon Dr Jonathan Coleman\u003C/span\u003E: I am not going to apologise if you are not going to give me the chance to explain what went on. I am sorry. I will leave the Chamber.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000178\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e4b09a29-dfd3-42c0-8585-11463bd6077b\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u00229cbab79f76a847199660d9c162d92094\u0022\u003EMr SPEAKER\u003C/span\u003E: The member will leave the Chamber.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000179\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e4b09a29-dfd3-42c0-8585-11463bd6077b\u0022\u003EHon Dr Jonathan Coleman withdrew from the Chamber. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000180\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e4b09a29-dfd3-42c0-8585-11463bd6077b\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u002231d212d5eaa242e3972ecf4b1bd457d8\u0022\u003EMr SPEAKER\u003C/span\u003E: Before I call question No. 3, I can advise that it will be asked on behalf of Barbara Stewart by the Labour Party.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000181\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsSubjectHeading\u0022 id=\u0022517070fe61274d5e922467e32669ce1a\u0022\u003ESuperannuation Rate\u2014Effect of Overseas Pensions\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u00221dbd2811-8e58-4ffb-848d-31c0eaa9690a\u0022 data-id=\u0022f855d96d210f4cdd8ac715e83511bb13\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000182\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00221dbd2811-8e58-4ffb-848d-31c0eaa9690a\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u0022f855d96d210f4cdd8ac715e83511bb13\u0022\u003ECHRIS HIPKINS (Labour\u2014Rimutaka):\u003C/span\u003E On behalf of Barbara Stewart\u2014[Interruption] \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000183\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e6b4dc55-3561-49a8-a871-ae005354ef90\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u002272046de6f1ee409fb8d7dca72c90106b\u0022\u003EHon Gerry Brownlee\u003C/span\u003E: I raise a point of order, Mr Speaker. We had earlier a series of points of order from the Rt Hon Winston Peters protesting the rights of registered parties to be in the House and pointing out that in his opinion some unregistered parties should not be here. Given that he is the leader of a registered party and he stood up in this House and said that because they were dissatisfied with some proceedings, New Zealand First was withdrawing from the House for an unspecified period of time, how can they be out of the House but actually then require people in another party to ask their questions? That is the height of absurdity.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000184\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e4b09a29-dfd3-42c0-8585-11463bd6077b\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u00224d6896b49dc9472b89ef83e74743c1dd\u0022\u003EMr SPEAKER\u003C/span\u003E: I refer the member to Standing Order 381(2), which states that a member may ask a question on behalf of another if that member who is absent has given authority to the member to do so. I am advised that such authority has been given. [Interruption] Order! If we want to have a record number of expulsions today we are certainly heading the right way. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000185\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002243684a4d-fb40-469a-8e63-cdd1e354b387\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022789aff70221844baa48789506b921aa5\u0022\u003EBrendan Horan\u003C/span\u003E: Point of order\u2014 \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000186\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e4b09a29-dfd3-42c0-8585-11463bd6077b\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022f3426b44f19544c29eadb49f9f9c841b\u0022\u003EMr SPEAKER\u003C/span\u003E: Is this a point of order from Brendan Horan? \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000187\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002243684a4d-fb40-469a-8e63-cdd1e354b387\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u002264ce2933a445428ba6ba4e9f26a2f271\u0022\u003EBrendan Horan\u003C/span\u003E: Yes, it\u2019s a point of order, Mr Speaker.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000188\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e4b09a29-dfd3-42c0-8585-11463bd6077b\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022cd52822eeafa41acb3eb9d40b8d5c535\u0022\u003EMr SPEAKER\u003C/span\u003E: Again, it better\u2014[Interruption] Order! I will hear the member, but, if it is a frivolous point of order, expect my threat to be fulfilled.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000189\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002243684a4d-fb40-469a-8e63-cdd1e354b387\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022293378dc6c9247caa3ac56ddd5c149be\u0022\u003EBrendan Horan\u003C/span\u003E: Thank you, Mr Speaker. That is noted. This is a very serious point of order. I seek leave for members\u2019 order of the day No. 10 to be discharged, as I think it would be helpful for those of us who wish to actively participate in the democratic process. I believe that there is a precedent for this in the 1996\u2014\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000190\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e4b09a29-dfd3-42c0-8585-11463bd6077b\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u00228ebf8372c2a7459da049b9b73d7fccf3\u0022\u003EMr SPEAKER\u003C/span\u003E: Leave is sought to discharge members\u2019 notice No. 10. Is there any objection? There is.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u00220daaf9fb-1a1f-4d31-848a-fd13cb1a2c5a\u0022 data-id=\u00229009b412254c4451970bde36efce3fd5\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000191\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00220daaf9fb-1a1f-4d31-848a-fd13cb1a2c5a\u0022\u003E3. CHRIS HIPKINS (Labour\u2014Rimutaka) on behalf of \u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u00229009b412254c4451970bde36efce3fd5\u0022\u003EBARBARA STEWART (NZ First)\u003C/span\u003E to the Minister for Social Development: Does she consider that the direct deduction policy of overseas pensions from New Zealand Superannuation under Section 70 of the Social Security Act 1964 is consistent and fair?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u0022659f6556-09a1-4ead-bc52-05cbdb4eaab8\u0022 data-id=\u0022425bdd411a16487485a738bd394b20db\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000192\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022659f6556-09a1-4ead-bc52-05cbdb4eaab8\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u0022425bdd411a16487485a738bd394b20db\u0022\u003EHon CRAIG FOSS (Minister of Commerce)\u003C/span\u003E on behalf of the Minister for Social Development: Yes.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000193\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00221dbd2811-8e58-4ffb-848d-31c0eaa9690a\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022a70c14fb28324a07a05d49d036a1848e\u0022\u003EChris Hipkins\u003C/span\u003E: When an overseas pension is paid to a pensioner, what justification is there for applying section 70 to the spouse in respect of their own entitlement to New Zealand superannuation?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000194\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022659f6556-09a1-4ead-bc52-05cbdb4eaab8\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u002234803ff7d28d47a994cf4d554ca2fdf8\u0022\u003EHon CRAIG FOSS\u003C/span\u003E: This policy has been tested in courts of law over recent years and every single time the policy of deduction under section 70 has been found to be maintaining the status quo.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000195\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00221dbd2811-8e58-4ffb-848d-31c0eaa9690a\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u002283a4107cdd684b238f03da22cdd9cc83\u0022\u003EChris Hipkins\u003C/span\u003E: Has she received advice on the human rights implications of applying section 70 to the spouse of a pensioner who receives an overseas pension; if so, does the advice raise the possibility of a claim under the Human Rights Act by the spouse?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000196\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022659f6556-09a1-4ead-bc52-05cbdb4eaab8\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u002289d6f9ac14f54e15895db48fccc63a17\u0022\u003EHon CRAIG FOSS\u003C/span\u003E: I cannot confirm that advice, but quite possibly the 2007 Labour - New Zealand First review of this policy may well have considered such matters, which led to no substantive changes in this policy.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000197\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00221dbd2811-8e58-4ffb-848d-31c0eaa9690a\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022600622dd406e4c6ca9c9fe2acb46d688\u0022\u003EChris Hipkins\u003C/span\u003E: Supplementary question on behalf of Barbara Stewart\u2014\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000198\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e4b09a29-dfd3-42c0-8585-11463bd6077b\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u002258d52e7124704e27af1a1a80fd23b8cf\u0022\u003EMr SPEAKER\u003C/span\u003E: Order! The member cannot raise supplementary questions on behalf of a member. Supplementary questions are being raised by\u2014\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000199\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00221dbd2811-8e58-4ffb-848d-31c0eaa9690a\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022c41e550d8bb94e23a3df5655dd15e0ec\u0022\u003EChris Hipkins\u003C/span\u003E: OK, in that case, just to clarify, Mr Speaker, New Zealand First has transferred its supplementary question allocation to us.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000200\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e4b09a29-dfd3-42c0-8585-11463bd6077b\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022eedf2701d90a4aa28714d048e7474561\u0022\u003EMr SPEAKER\u003C/span\u003E: I accept that.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000201\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00221dbd2811-8e58-4ffb-848d-31c0eaa9690a\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u00227c7a9e98e31249a385f38bd0a6242f5a\u0022\u003EChris Hipkins\u003C/span\u003E: How would she respond to a possible human rights class action by the New Zealand superannuitants affected by the direct deduction of overseas pensions?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000202\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022659f6556-09a1-4ead-bc52-05cbdb4eaab8\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u00226c9318140a6b449e9860d2e04e549549\u0022\u003EHon CRAIG FOSS\u003C/span\u003E: We will just have to wait and see, if that was to come about.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000203\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00221dbd2811-8e58-4ffb-848d-31c0eaa9690a\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022f63f9dbe5cb941ad976a1785f7ee9392\u0022\u003EChris Hipkins\u003C/span\u003E: Does she review the use of her chief executive\u2019s discretion under section 70 in so far as it affects overseas occupational pensions under the direct deduction policy; if so, when was the last such review?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000204\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022659f6556-09a1-4ead-bc52-05cbdb4eaab8\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u00226955fe40bcc94c62b58a5f4599bef94b\u0022\u003EHon CRAIG FOSS\u003C/span\u003E: Mr Speaker, can I ask what the very last part of that question was?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000205\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e4b09a29-dfd3-42c0-8585-11463bd6077b\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u00227e4deffca03c42d4ae5844be69b1974f\u0022\u003EMr SPEAKER\u003C/span\u003E: Would the member please repeat the entire question. The reason it was not heard was because of the level of interjection that is coming from my right-hand side of the House.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000206\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00221dbd2811-8e58-4ffb-848d-31c0eaa9690a\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022f698ac1dc2b24646bc225e06461ac407\u0022\u003EChris Hipkins\u003C/span\u003E: Does she review the use of her chief executive\u2019s discretion under section 70 in so far as it affects overseas occupational pensions under the direct deduction policy; if so, when was the last such review?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000207\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022659f6556-09a1-4ead-bc52-05cbdb4eaab8\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022fe5fe6d84e3b4b65b62b45236527672d\u0022\u003EHon CRAIG FOSS\u003C/span\u003E: I understand that the last review of all the policies in and around section 70 and the deduction of overseas pensions was by the Labour - New Zealand First coalition Government in 2007, and no substantive changes to administration or policies were put in place subsequent to that review. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000208\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00221dbd2811-8e58-4ffb-848d-31c0eaa9690a\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022eca9480ff4664238beb3ef3bf8b1a0d3\u0022\u003EChris Hipkins\u003C/span\u003E: Is she aware of the concerns expressed by the United States, Canada, and other Governments on the direct deduction policy, to the extent that these concerns will impede future social security agreements between New Zealand and these countries?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000209\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022659f6556-09a1-4ead-bc52-05cbdb4eaab8\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022550b6f5b39c44e5fa4ce6d9361951379\u0022\u003EHon CRAIG FOSS\u003C/span\u003E: Sorry, I cannot confirm whether the Minister is aware of that, but I do know that those particular issues have been raised for quite some time, and I think they were considered as part of the 2007 review by New Zealand First and Labour, where they did not come out with any findings\u2014\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000210\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e4b09a29-dfd3-42c0-8585-11463bd6077b\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022ce668a3d3ce04bbc9575cc0b62b429e4\u0022\u003EMr SPEAKER\u003C/span\u003E: Order! That is quite a sufficient answer.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000211\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsSubjectHeading\u0022 id=\u002230c1545a9bf842f89827430d793bf5bf\u0022\u003ETourism Promotion\u2014Effect of Hobbit Campaign\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u0022656487fe-e0a2-485c-8dc2-fe61b9aec128\u0022 data-id=\u0022ea6235f7ef70416b8f42a5e4d8fe2751\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000212\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022656487fe-e0a2-485c-8dc2-fe61b9aec128\u0022\u003E4. \u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u0022ea6235f7ef70416b8f42a5e4d8fe2751\u0022\u003EDr JIAN YANG (National)\u003C/span\u003E to the Minister of Tourism: What reports has he received on the effect of the Hobbit movies on tourism and visitor numbers?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u00221368ba6c-25be-40f6-a2a0-8f81e1f78b79\u0022 data-id=\u00221a1392b07a8543f18214b65eae165a87\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000213\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00221368ba6c-25be-40f6-a2a0-8f81e1f78b79\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u00221a1392b07a8543f18214b65eae165a87\u0022\u003EHon CHRIS TREMAIN (Associate Minister of Tourism)\u003C/span\u003E on behalf of the Minister of Tourism: The Minister has received reports from Tourism New Zealand that January to April holiday arrivals for 2013 were up 10 percent on last year\u2019s arrivals, with visits from the US up 23 percent. It is no coincidence that this follows the release of the first Hobbit film and the launch of the \u201C100% Middle-earth, 100% Pure New Zealand\u201D campaign, which has been particularly strong in America. In the first 3 months of the year, 8.5 percent of visitors to New Zealand said that The Hobbit was a factor in choosing to come here. Those 8.5 percent of visitors spent around $153 million, which can be partially attributed to the Hobbit movie. This means more money in the pockets of our local businesses, which is great news for the accommodation and hospitality sectors, tourism operators, and businesses such as Hobbiton Movie Set and Farm Tours, Weta Workshop, and the Lord of the Rings tour companies.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000214\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022656487fe-e0a2-485c-8dc2-fe61b9aec128\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u002256b813e9625448c38fdbaf4564365946\u0022\u003EDr Jian Yang\u003C/span\u003E: Is he aware of any opposition to The Hobbit that could have undermined these tourism benefits? \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000215\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00221368ba6c-25be-40f6-a2a0-8f81e1f78b79\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u00227d3178234666462488e607abe190ee07\u0022\u003EHon CHRIS TREMAIN\u003C/span\u003E: Mr Speaker\u2014[Interruption] \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000216\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e4b09a29-dfd3-42c0-8585-11463bd6077b\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u00225c4afbaa82434ca1a76b5be50e9aee1e\u0022\u003EMr SPEAKER\u003C/span\u003E: Order!\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000217\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00221368ba6c-25be-40f6-a2a0-8f81e1f78b79\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022dab0e1146da5441188944169a4ad08ba\u0022\u003EHon CHRIS TREMAIN\u003C/span\u003E: Yes, I\u2014[Interruption] \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000218\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e4b09a29-dfd3-42c0-8585-11463bd6077b\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u00224238cb930f48414889efaa1bc23cb679\u0022\u003EMr SPEAKER\u003C/span\u003E: Order! Would the member Andrew Little please refrain from such loud interjections.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000219\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00221368ba6c-25be-40f6-a2a0-8f81e1f78b79\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022700f157bf5ec4c52b7944a42326bcd44\u0022\u003EHon CHRIS TREMAIN\u003C/span\u003E: Yes, I am aware of some groups who would have preferred The Hobbit being filmed offshore as opposed to here in beautiful New Zealand. I am also aware of groups that claim that the economic benefits of The Hobbit were unsubstantiated. This was particularly confusing when some of the leaders of these groups took an unexpected journey of their own to the premiere of the Hobbit movie. There is no doubt that The Hobbit has helped to increase visitor numbers. New Zealand tourism is benefiting from the decisive action taken by the Government to ensure The Hobbit was filmed here.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000220\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022656487fe-e0a2-485c-8dc2-fe61b9aec128\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u002249461d2d877a4befa67dab4b614b2afc\u0022\u003EDr Jian Yang\u003C/span\u003E: What does the future hold for Hobbit-related promotion of New Zealand?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000221\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00221368ba6c-25be-40f6-a2a0-8f81e1f78b79\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022b81765219f5f4e73b71fe29e821fa432\u0022\u003EHon CHRIS TREMAIN\u003C/span\u003E: Next month Weta Workshop will be collaborating with Tourism New Zealand at San Diego\u2019s comic conference to attract future Hobbit-inspired visitors. Weta is expecting an additional 40,000 tourists\u2014that is actually a big deal\u2014this year already, and other businesses are reporting increased numbers. Hobbiton Movie Set and Farm Tours manager, Russell Alexander, said that the film set was at the coalface of the tourist boom, with January to March visitor numbers almost double those of the previous year. \u201CIt\u2019s been a fantastic summer.\u201D, he said. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000222\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsSubjectHeading\u0022 id=\u0022cc242d66cbf34bf8b238ed9d7ad2a033\u0022\u003EHousing, Affordable\u2014Auckland Housing Accord\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u0022cbc37df2-57ae-4536-94ed-a2e39eecd585\u0022 data-id=\u0022adc7b84e5dae434c99e4cac377e9928b\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000223\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022cbc37df2-57ae-4536-94ed-a2e39eecd585\u0022\u003E5. \u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u0022adc7b84e5dae434c99e4cac377e9928b\u0022\u003EPHIL TWYFORD (Labour\u2014Te Atat\u016B)\u003C/span\u003E to the Minister of Housing: Does he stand by all his statements?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u0022e978865e-57e5-41d6-a7f6-b49daae78630\u0022 data-id=\u0022e8e7779655e04b44815020946cb09448\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000224\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e978865e-57e5-41d6-a7f6-b49daae78630\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u0022e8e7779655e04b44815020946cb09448\u0022\u003EHon Dr NICK SMITH (Minister of Housing):\u003C/span\u003E I particularly stand by my statement thanking the member for putting up hoardings of me all over Auckland. I am disappointed not to have had a response to my offer to recycle them for my next Nelson campaign. I also stand by my other statements.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000225\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022cbc37df2-57ae-4536-94ed-a2e39eecd585\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u002259031fd4b6ac4ed29ebe7ddf8af90b23\u0022\u003EPhil Twyford\u003C/span\u003E: Does he stand by his comment in the New Zealand Herald that Aucklanders need to \u201Caccept lower quality developments if they want affordable housing\u201D?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000226\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e978865e-57e5-41d6-a7f6-b49daae78630\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u00221a2b238442e4428392da31e3a2ec0139\u0022\u003EHon Dr NICK SMITH\u003C/span\u003E: I have the full statement here. I said this: \u201CWe need to have an upfront discussion about the balance between affordability and quality. Affordability has been given too little weight.\u201D This statement is based on the authoritative analysis by the Productivity Commission, which pointed out that over the last decade we have been building houses in only the very top quartile, over $700,000. If we are to deliver more affordable homes for New Zealanders, then we actually need to change that balance.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000227\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022cbc37df2-57ae-4536-94ed-a2e39eecd585\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022c121ad8660764fdb9e7486532e963791\u0022\u003EPhil Twyford\u003C/span\u003E: What does he say to Gary Taylor of the Environmental Defence Society who says that the bill \u201Cis a serious assault on our planning framework which can only lead to \u2026 slums.\u201D?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000228\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e978865e-57e5-41d6-a7f6-b49daae78630\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022a40e1d03b5d6412baf793b1777241812\u0022\u003EHon Dr NICK SMITH\u003C/span\u003E: The greatest threat to Aucklanders on low incomes is having house prices continue to go up by 13 percent per year. That is why this Government is committed to a comprehensive programme to improve the affordability of housing for all Aucklanders.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000229\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022cbc37df2-57ae-4536-94ed-a2e39eecd585\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u00229614aa406f604cf39e189d8ba7aaa947\u0022\u003EPhil Twyford\u003C/span\u003E: Can he point to the provision in the bill that will prevent special housing areas with lower quality standards being imposed on residents of established suburbs in Auckland, who are already fearful of more relaxed development rules?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000230\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e978865e-57e5-41d6-a7f6-b49daae78630\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022edd35427fa3a41ba9da3bf3e38e2a467\u0022\u003EHon Dr NICK SMITH\u003C/span\u003E: Let me make it quite plain that the Government\u2019s objective is both affordable and quality homes. But it is not possible to have a situation where, for instance, on the rural fringes of towns, including my own, in Nelson, local neighbourhoods are insisting on very large sections, very minimum sizes, wanting to exclude, for instance, social housing, and to somehow pretend that this Parliament is going to get a solution to the challenges that we have around affordable housing.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000231\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022cbc37df2-57ae-4536-94ed-a2e39eecd585\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u00224d8b18f6e31f424f9ed87f198c853680\u0022\u003EPhil Twyford\u003C/span\u003E: I raise a point of order, Mr Speaker. My question asked the Minister to point to the provision in the bill that would prevent the situation of slums occurring. He did not address the question.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000232\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e4b09a29-dfd3-42c0-8585-11463bd6077b\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022d2039991491943118dd3889fac416030\u0022\u003EMr SPEAKER\u003C/span\u003E: Could the Minister please address that part of the question.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000233\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e978865e-57e5-41d6-a7f6-b49daae78630\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u00222039b8d3ee954742ba7573f88d04096b\u0022\u003EHon Dr NICK SMITH\u003C/span\u003E: The special housing bill\u2014the member is happy to read it; it is before a select committee\u2014allows areas to go ahead only where there is the agreement of both the council and the Government. I reassure the member\u2014\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000234\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022cbc37df2-57ae-4536-94ed-a2e39eecd585\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u002216bfc3521b4045fab339b8eab9a0ea41\u0022\u003EPhil Twyford\u003C/span\u003E: You can just override the council.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000235\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e978865e-57e5-41d6-a7f6-b49daae78630\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022c9aff29513214f1aa16578ae19b808a2\u0022\u003EHon Dr NICK SMITH\u003C/span\u003E: Well, indeed. This Government is committed to providing additional housing, and I assure the member that we are focused on both quality and affordability.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000236\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022cbc37df2-57ae-4536-94ed-a2e39eecd585\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022ac396c6960564a8cb49b99c504e04a48\u0022\u003EPhil Twyford\u003C/span\u003E: If a leading commentator says that his bill will cause slums, if the Auckland Council says it will not sign his housing accord, and if two-thirds of New Zealanders say the Government is not doing enough to promote affordable housing, is it not time to rethink his policy?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000237\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e978865e-57e5-41d6-a7f6-b49daae78630\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022aa3cc4e34ee446ee820329606ffc026e\u0022\u003EHon Dr NICK SMITH\u003C/span\u003E: Not at all. If I look at the 9-year record of the previous Government, 90 percent of the houses that were built under the previous Labour Government were over $650,000.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000238\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022a83ea07a-806c-45ad-95bb-eb2c481cd0e2\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u00224f1c3be153ec444aace66408f1b8362f\u0022\u003EHon Tony Ryall\u003C/span\u003E: What? Ninety percent?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000239\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e978865e-57e5-41d6-a7f6-b49daae78630\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022e746518d109448b0a8e929235a5531db\u0022\u003EHon Dr NICK SMITH\u003C/span\u003E: Ninety percent of the new houses built during Labour\u2019s period were for only the very top income group. This is a Government that is committed to building affordable homes for all New Zealanders\u2014thus, the reforms and the programme that we have before the House.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000240\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsSubjectHeading\u0022 id=\u00227896189177de4fbb849a1166018397e1\u0022\u003EQuestion No. 6 to Minister\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u0022eb49ee66-7ca7-472d-a4a1-b099fd594dfa\u0022 data-id=\u0022095410611b5c4839b7d420c7eb6eedf6\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000241\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022eb49ee66-7ca7-472d-a4a1-b099fd594dfa\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u0022095410611b5c4839b7d420c7eb6eedf6\u0022\u003EDr RUSSEL NORMAN (Co-Leader\u2014Green):\u003C/span\u003E I raise a point of order, Mr Speaker. This question was originally set down for the Minister of Finance. I seek leave for it to be put back to the Minister of Finance.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u0022e4b09a29-dfd3-42c0-8585-11463bd6077b\u0022 data-id=\u00220a1c47d789e64b96adf0d82a0cf2a467\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000242\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e4b09a29-dfd3-42c0-8585-11463bd6077b\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u00220a1c47d789e64b96adf0d82a0cf2a467\u0022\u003EMr SPEAKER\u003C/span\u003E: Leave is so sought. Is there any objection? There is.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000243\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsSubjectHeading\u0022 id=\u00220a352dc4f4c340cda75f9f7ee4bcca6e\u0022\u003EClimate Change Policy\u2014Emissions Trading Scheme\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u0022eb49ee66-7ca7-472d-a4a1-b099fd594dfa\u0022 data-id=\u00227839dc04f09a43f59dba846c67aeeced\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000244\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022eb49ee66-7ca7-472d-a4a1-b099fd594dfa\u0022\u003E6. \u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u00227839dc04f09a43f59dba846c67aeeced\u0022\u003EDr RUSSEL NORMAN (Co-Leader\u2014Green)\u003C/span\u003E to the Minister for Climate Change Issues: Does he stand by the Minister of Finance\u2019s statement: \u201CWell, we\u2019ve got climate change policy built around the emissions trading system, which has bipartisan support\u201D?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u00223f670c71-9be5-4a7e-a197-0590da759280\u0022 data-id=\u00225d5585594b9d4149882a36ec9be56b1f\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000245\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00223f670c71-9be5-4a7e-a197-0590da759280\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u00225d5585594b9d4149882a36ec9be56b1f\u0022\u003EHon TIM GROSER (Minister for Climate Change Issues):\u003C/span\u003E Yes.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000246\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022eb49ee66-7ca7-472d-a4a1-b099fd594dfa\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022b797e7774ad84a2abf52c59d02a74ef5\u0022\u003EDr Russel Norman\u003C/span\u003E: Does he accept the scientific consensus that human-induced climate change is real, or does he share the view of the finance Minister that, well, \u201CIt [only] may well be\u201D?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000247\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00223f670c71-9be5-4a7e-a197-0590da759280\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022060c046221b44ef2aa2cee5b808e5c90\u0022\u003EHon TIM GROSER\u003C/span\u003E: We accept that the science points to risks, but we also understand that there are major questions around the numerics, around the extent of climate change, and around a number of other factors that feed into this equation.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000248\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022eb49ee66-7ca7-472d-a4a1-b099fd594dfa\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u00223f50041741464e93a3fef3084d2b9719\u0022\u003EDr Russel Norman\u003C/span\u003E: Do those uncertainties around the numerics justify the Government weakening the emissions trading scheme so that it no longer has any effect?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000249\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00223f670c71-9be5-4a7e-a197-0590da759280\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u002252335c024d754f85a4b6abdd6902e677\u0022\u003EHon TIM GROSER\u003C/span\u003E: No, we are not weakening the emissions trading scheme; we are maintaining the emissions trading scheme on its current settings.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000250\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022eb49ee66-7ca7-472d-a4a1-b099fd594dfa\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022aedca1693e5042ad9b18ad3b40404663\u0022\u003EDr Russel Norman\u003C/span\u003E: Does he agree with the latest OECD economic survey of New Zealand, which came out a couple of days ago\u2014you might remember it\u2014which recommends strengthening price signals in the emissions trading system, or does he think, as John Key seems to think, that the emissions trading scheme is a far-left idea?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000251\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00223f670c71-9be5-4a7e-a197-0590da759280\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022ed3d31b996444ca390e3aca630109353\u0022\u003EHon TIM GROSER\u003C/span\u003E: Once again the member is partially quoting from the OECD survey. What I recall quite clearly, although I do not have it in front of me, was a very clear statement that said the New Zealand emissions trading scheme is the most advanced scheme of its type in the world.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000252\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022eb49ee66-7ca7-472d-a4a1-b099fd594dfa\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022a0efec58e6e74f5e8ee74919cfdd1e01\u0022\u003EDr Russel Norman\u003C/span\u003E: Does he agree with the OECD in its recent country report about New Zealand that \u201Cencouraging investment in greenhouse gas mitigation technologies and transport infrastructure will require stronger price signals from the emissions trading scheme\u201D, or does he think that a stronger emissions trading scheme is some kind of far-left idea, as John Key seems to think?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000253\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00223f670c71-9be5-4a7e-a197-0590da759280\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022162f60dbb98546c0a41148e03b6df1d1\u0022\u003EHon TIM GROSER\u003C/span\u003E: Quite clearly, a stronger international price would drive an adjustment in a faster direction, but the underlying policy is that we are aligning ourselves with world prices. At the same time, our proportion of renewable energy is going rapidly towards the 90 percent target.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000254\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022eb49ee66-7ca7-472d-a4a1-b099fd594dfa\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022da8a32d2a3c14795a945c6c7b076723b\u0022\u003EDr Russel Norman\u003C/span\u003E: Does this OECD report not demonstrate once again that the international economic mainstream is actually much closer to the Green Party policy of a stronger carbon price, rather than the National policy of completely gutting the emissions trading scheme, which is an extremist policy by international standards?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000255\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00223f670c71-9be5-4a7e-a197-0590da759280\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u00228cf993f1cd204fc58467ed39be9c5222\u0022\u003EHon TIM GROSER\u003C/span\u003E: No, I do not accept that at all. It is a selective reading, once again, of the assessment.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000256\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022eb49ee66-7ca7-472d-a4a1-b099fd594dfa\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u00223a13bdf5abeb4867b94d00e2df391415\u0022\u003EDr Russel Norman\u003C/span\u003E: How can the Minister continue to argue that New Zealand is being responsible and mainstream on climate change policy, when New Zealand is the fifth-worst country in the OECD for total greenhouse gas emissions on a per capita basis; are we not at the extremes of the OECD on climate change policy?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000257\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00223f670c71-9be5-4a7e-a197-0590da759280\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022f0154caab09342e2b4cf00f2ac04a8d7\u0022\u003EHon TIM GROSER\u003C/span\u003E: The member knows perfectly well why New Zealand is in that position on a per capita basis, but the reality is that, since 48 percent of the emissions come from agriculture, we are the most carbon-efficient major agricultural country in the world. If we were to reduce our emissions by killing agriculture, as the member consistently advocates, we would actually worsen climate change internationally.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000258\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsSubjectHeading\u0022 id=\u002272cf4461b1e446d6929f3f517645ddba\u0022\u003ELand Transport Management\u2014Legislative Reform\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u0022eaf79431-1033-44f1-a633-22633da52c0d\u0022 data-id=\u0022cdf1f26dcba54e28bc0038c01f103ac4\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000259\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022eaf79431-1033-44f1-a633-22633da52c0d\u0022\u003E7. \u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u0022cdf1f26dcba54e28bc0038c01f103ac4\u0022\u003EDAVID BENNETT (National\u2014Hamilton East)\u003C/span\u003E to the Minister of Transport: What are some of the benefits of the Land Transport Management Amendment Bill passed by the House on Tuesday?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u0022e6b4dc55-3561-49a8-a871-ae005354ef90\u0022 data-id=\u00229da0e490403148f1a9963cedec06f36a\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000260\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e6b4dc55-3561-49a8-a871-ae005354ef90\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u00229da0e490403148f1a9963cedec06f36a\u0022\u003EHon GERRY BROWNLEE (Minister of Transport):\u003C/span\u003E Now the Land Transport Management Amendment Act, it puts in place the Public Transport Operating Model, which is an ongoing partnership between regional councils and public transport operators for the planning and contracting of public transport. The Public Transport Operating Model was developed through a collaborative process involving the public transport sector. It has a high level of support from operators and regional councils. The Act also simplifies the process for putting in place public-private partnership arrangements, and removes the provision to implement a regional fuel tax. Opposition to this Act is opposition to public transport.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000261\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022eaf79431-1033-44f1-a633-22633da52c0d\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u00222a6c95890369404f8deab2e6cc9f4c44\u0022\u003EDavid Bennett\u003C/span\u003E: Why is the Government amending the public-private partnership arrangements in the original Land Transport Management Act?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000262\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e6b4dc55-3561-49a8-a871-ae005354ef90\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u00226994ad64521144fbb2a18b483e0a7275\u0022\u003EHon GERRY BROWNLEE\u003C/span\u003E: The bill simplifies the process for approving public-private partnerships. The Government wants to ensure that there is a more straightforward process, which will reduce the barriers or potential barriers to the use of these partnerships. We believe that using public-private partnerships is a legitimate way to address some of the longstanding transport infrastructure needs of the country.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000263\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022490ccdbf-7c22-4e12-98f2-f3aa08f8e676\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022f606322cc90b4435a24ee158ea7942ed\u0022\u003EIain Lees-Galloway\u003C/span\u003E: Can the Minister confirm that this law strips Auckland councillors of their democratic right to decide how to spend their own transport budget of $459.5 million\u2014or one-third of Auckland ratepayers\u2019 money\u2014and that it makes this task the responsibility of the unelected board of Auckland Transport, which is now bound to follow his Government policy statement? Why does he hate democracy?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000264\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e6b4dc55-3561-49a8-a871-ae005354ef90\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022859816a0bb90408c9d52675b33854d3a\u0022\u003EHon GERRY BROWNLEE\u003C/span\u003E: No. That is, to say the least, a very jaundiced view of the collaborative arrangements we have as a Government with Auckland Council.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000265\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsSubjectHeading\u0022 id=\u0022f20ec66213f54388a4eb20182a7c6d60\u0022\u003EEarthquake Commission\u2014Official Information Act and Privacy Act Requests\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u0022c186d0a2-99f4-408b-9b4d-d484cf19724d\u0022 data-id=\u0022dc48946d7c37497087ef5628bb45ee75\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000266\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022c186d0a2-99f4-408b-9b4d-d484cf19724d\u0022\u003E8. \u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u0022dc48946d7c37497087ef5628bb45ee75\u0022\u003EHon LIANNE DALZIEL (Labour\u2014Christchurch East)\u003C/span\u003E to the Minister responsible for the Earthquake Commission: Is he satisfied with the time the Earthquake Commission takes to respond to Official Information Act and Privacy Act requests; if so, why?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u0022e6b4dc55-3561-49a8-a871-ae005354ef90\u0022 data-id=\u0022351a8e8b38c44a6aa3a02c058eff9330\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000267\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e6b4dc55-3561-49a8-a871-ae005354ef90\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u0022351a8e8b38c44a6aa3a02c058eff9330\u0022\u003EHon GERRY BROWNLEE (Minister responsible for the Earthquake Commission):\u003C/span\u003E I am satisfied with the Earthquake Commission\u2019s response to these requests inside the statutory time frames. Since 4 September 2010 the Earthquake Commission has received over 5,000 Official Information Act requests. There are 17 full-time staff doing nothing but processing those requests, and we have a recruitment programme to have another three staff put into permanent roles. In a word, the agency is overwhelmed. I would note that the Ombudsman\u2019s advice and comment have been acted upon by the Earthquake Commission in trying to deal with this particular volume of work. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000268\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022c186d0a2-99f4-408b-9b4d-d484cf19724d\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u00225e96358e42134273a115743c0ca46bce\u0022\u003EHon Lianne Dalziel\u003C/span\u003E: Is he aware that over 2,000 people have signed an online petition calling on him to urgently amend the Earthquake Commission\u2019s claims management system, in light of the months people have to wait for an Official Information Act request to get the information they need to make an informed decision on the future of their homes; if so, what is his response?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000269\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e6b4dc55-3561-49a8-a871-ae005354ef90\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u00220957a5867b674dba8edbfa635016aace\u0022\u003EHon GERRY BROWNLEE\u003C/span\u003E: I am not aware of that.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000270\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022c186d0a2-99f4-408b-9b4d-d484cf19724d\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u002264d2dcc8639743dc80dbf09bd79bf720\u0022\u003EHon Lianne Dalziel\u003C/span\u003E: Does the Earthquake Commission\u2019s decision to extend the time for processing Official Information Act requests to 6 to 7 months meet its statutory obligations to comply with the Official Information Act; if not, what steps has he taken to require the Earthquake Commission to comply with the law?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000271\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e6b4dc55-3561-49a8-a871-ae005354ef90\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u002264e555688358469883f8046feedfe821\u0022\u003EHon GERRY BROWNLEE\u003C/span\u003E: No, quite evidently, it does not. But, as I said, there has been a huge inundation of Official Information Act requests since 4 September. That has heightened in recent months. What I have done is require the Earthquake Commission to work with the Office of the Ombudsmen to get good processes in place. The State Services Commission has been asked to see whether there is capacity in other State agencies to assist with the process. I would note that there has been a 40 percent staffing turnover in this particular unit of the Earthquake Commission, and that makes things very, very difficult, but we are prepared to take more staff on. We are doing our very best to speed up that process, but the volume is so big that it is overwhelming. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000272\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022c186d0a2-99f4-408b-9b4d-d484cf19724d\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u00226a2fd6e918fc4744aee7dfed4f426d18\u0022\u003EHon Lianne Dalziel\u003C/span\u003E: When was he first advised that, due to the Earthquake Commission\u2019s continued inability to comply with its obligations under the Official Information Act and the Privacy Act, the Chief Ombudsman, in conjunction with the Privacy Commissioner, will be undertaking an investigation under the Ombudsmen Act into the Earthquake Commission\u2019s management of its requests for official information, as stated in her letter to Brent Hamlin after he was stonewalled by the Earthquake Commission for 6 months?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000273\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e6b4dc55-3561-49a8-a871-ae005354ef90\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022704e4ff6574744cf9c292e1b001af498\u0022\u003EHon GERRY BROWNLEE\u003C/span\u003E: I have been aware of the difficulties that the Earthquake Commission is having in dealing with not only 726,000 individual insurance claims but also over 5,000 Official Information Act requests since 4 September 2010. We have had engagement with the Office of the Ombudsmen, and we would welcome any suggestion the Ombudsman has for how this process might be sped up.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000274\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022c186d0a2-99f4-408b-9b4d-d484cf19724d\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022fbce8a78ba1945f3a18ee9f15b2586dc\u0022\u003EHon Lianne Dalziel\u003C/span\u003E: I raise a point of order, Mr Speaker. My question was very specific: when was he first advised that the Chief Ombudsman, in conjunction with\u2014\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000275\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e4b09a29-dfd3-42c0-8585-11463bd6077b\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022bc4ae13ca3584ed08ef0064ebbf5e559\u0022\u003EMr SPEAKER\u003C/span\u003E: Order! Could the Minister please address that part of the question.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000276\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e6b4dc55-3561-49a8-a871-ae005354ef90\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022841c9f01445a4f1a8ae65693bb56c791\u0022\u003EHon GERRY BROWNLEE\u003C/span\u003E: Yes, I thought I had. I was saying that this is something that I have been watching for quite a time, and that, as far as I can recollect, it would have been in one of the weekly meetings that I had with the Earthquake Commission in recent weeks. I cannot pinpoint that week just here.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000277\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022c186d0a2-99f4-408b-9b4d-d484cf19724d\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022a4d6362b2429425dadc5733aa4d290ed\u0022\u003EHon Lianne Dalziel\u003C/span\u003E: I seek leave to table the letter from the Chief Ombudsman to Mr Brent Hamlin, concerning the Earthquake Commission\u2019s continued inability to comply with its obligations, and notifying that she will be undertaking an investigation with the\u2014\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000278\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e4b09a29-dfd3-42c0-8585-11463bd6077b\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022e68e4dca7eb049c8bc26b97ca2f9b9f5\u0022\u003EMr SPEAKER\u003C/span\u003E: Leave is sought\u2014\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000279\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e6b4dc55-3561-49a8-a871-ae005354ef90\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u00227b24cec04ed747caa58c4a6fe9788a4a\u0022\u003EHon GERRY BROWNLEE\u003C/span\u003E: Where is the privacy waiver?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000280\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e4b09a29-dfd3-42c0-8585-11463bd6077b\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u00229b56c4e253974a279a2374b916dbdebd\u0022\u003EMr SPEAKER\u003C/span\u003E: No, the letter is from the Ombudsman to the\u2014\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000281\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e6b4dc55-3561-49a8-a871-ae005354ef90\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022311fa325c5564c84be5868c3f89a7e9e\u0022\u003EHon GERRY BROWNLEE\u003C/span\u003E: It is someone else\u2019s letter.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000282\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e4b09a29-dfd3-42c0-8585-11463bd6077b\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022948c7dfa83304922962a2d8e1b7d2714\u0022\u003EMr SPEAKER\u003C/span\u003E: The Minister is raising whether there is any issue of\u2014\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000283\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022c186d0a2-99f4-408b-9b4d-d484cf19724d\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u002234f0eba7119a4b4abba0f55ddd7ab3ae\u0022\u003EHon Lianne Dalziel\u003C/span\u003E: I understand. I have permission from Mr Brent Hamlin to table the letter in Parliament.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000284\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e6b4dc55-3561-49a8-a871-ae005354ef90\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022218603e920284368a39c6549da9ecefe\u0022\u003EHon GERRY BROWNLEE\u003C/span\u003E: Is that being tabled?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000285\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e4b09a29-dfd3-42c0-8585-11463bd6077b\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022f6750be9a6e4444583837a7e62b13f16\u0022\u003EMr SPEAKER\u003C/span\u003E: It does not need to be. She has assured the House that she has got permission to table it. She is seeking leave to table it. I put the leave. Is there any objection to that letter being tabled? There is not. It can be tabled.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000286\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e4b09a29-dfd3-42c0-8585-11463bd6077b\u0022\u003EDocument, by leave, laid on the Table of the House.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000287\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsSubjectHeading\u0022 id=\u00222d5045c908454086ba29c534993093de\u0022\u003EEnvironmental Work\u20142013 Green Ribbon Awards\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u002292824476-4e66-4052-8435-b049833d8b83\u0022 data-id=\u0022c7b638cf60484d98869b0e92d5830dfd\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000288\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002292824476-4e66-4052-8435-b049833d8b83\u0022\u003E9. \u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u0022c7b638cf60484d98869b0e92d5830dfd\u0022\u003ENICKY WAGNER (National\u2014Christchurch Central)\u003C/span\u003E to the Minister for the Environment: What recent announcement has the Government made to recognise outstanding environmental achievement?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u0022dc6c0f88-e781-476d-bca1-d1bf9b69302b\u0022 data-id=\u00229232f234488a46588d93410ea2c46400\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000289\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022dc6c0f88-e781-476d-bca1-d1bf9b69302b\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u00229232f234488a46588d93410ea2c46400\u0022\u003EHon AMY ADAMS (Minister for the Environment):\u003C/span\u003E Yesterday at Parliament I hosted the Green Ribbon Awards, which recognise the outstanding contributions made by individuals, organisations, businesses, and communities to protecting and enhancing New Zealand\u2019s environment. This year\u2019s awards had more than 200 entries from 46 towns and cities across the country, and the finalists covered initiatives in a wide range of areas. Eleven category winners from around the country were announced, with the Sustainable Coastlines Charitable Trust awarded the supreme winner for its work to protect and sustain our coastlines. Can I congratulate all of last night\u2019s finalists and winners.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000290\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsSubjectHeading\u0022 id=\u00228f6d2a3101f145a19cdba244321b2cee\u0022\u003EM\u0101ori Economic Development\u2014Initiatives\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u002281825190-fd5d-4ed0-bb80-f12f3c93e653\u0022 data-id=\u0022136c60a1d93f466494eba84e6e73e000\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000291\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002281825190-fd5d-4ed0-bb80-f12f3c93e653\u0022\u003E10. \u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u0022136c60a1d93f466494eba84e6e73e000\u0022\u003ERINO TIRIKATENE (Labour\u2014Te Tai Tonga)\u003C/span\u003E to the Minister of M\u0101ori Affairs: Does he stand by his statement with respect to M\u0101ori whanau \u201Cour priority is the wellbeing of the most vulnerable members of society, and we will do everything we can to fight for that\u201D; if so, how has he improved the wellbeing of the most vulnerable members of society?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u002219767ece-60f1-4014-9855-74afaa34e699\u0022 data-id=\u0022fb9a9eec740d4be09e145dc6b406b081\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000292\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002219767ece-60f1-4014-9855-74afaa34e699\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u0022fb9a9eec740d4be09e145dc6b406b081\u0022\u003EHon Dr PITA SHARPLES (Minister of M\u0101ori Affairs):\u003C/span\u003E I thank the member for that question. As Minister I have improved the well-being of our vulnerable M\u0101ori wh\u0101nau by establishing the Kaitoko Wh\u0101nau programme, which has 51 community workers working among the vulnerable families, and the \u014Cranga Wh\u0101nau programme, which has 21 community workers looking after new young mothers of vulnerable wh\u0101nau. I have established community gardens\u20141,124 of them\u2014through M\u0101ra Kai for people who have no food. I have established cadetship programmes for M\u0101ori unemployed, with a 98 percent success rate and retention rate. I have established a professional group, trade training, and various kinds of them. I have established a literacy programme for deciles 1, 2, and 3 schools throughout the whole country, recognising that education is a vital part of vulnerability. Also, we have led the Government to establish a Ministerial Committee on Poverty, and, through our working with that committee, $100 million has gone towards insulating low-income households, and this is on top of the 8,000 M\u0101ori wh\u0101nau who have already had their homes insulated. Through this committee we had breakfasts in schools for deciles 1, 2, 3, and 4, and more to come in other schools\u2014\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000293\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e4b09a29-dfd3-42c0-8585-11463bd6077b\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u00225829d13d404b4207b542a48c989d7534\u0022\u003EMr SPEAKER\u003C/span\u003E: Order!\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000294\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002219767ece-60f1-4014-9855-74afaa34e699\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u00228bd9dd5ab0874c44a91821ad96d1a31b\u0022\u003EHon Dr PITA SHARPLES\u003C/span\u003E: I have not finished.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000295\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e4b09a29-dfd3-42c0-8585-11463bd6077b\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u00225166d788e677470b95a71e6e3b74a3d2\u0022\u003EMr SPEAKER\u003C/span\u003E: I appreciate that the Minister has got a lot of programmes under way, but that is a sufficiently long answer. [Interruption] But there will be an opportunity, I am sure, in the supplementary questions.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000296\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002281825190-fd5d-4ed0-bb80-f12f3c93e653\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u00229cbdadba4c884baca032de6feb8200bc\u0022\u003ERino Tirikatene\u003C/span\u003E: Does he agree that he has failed to improve the well-being of M\u0101ori in the Te Tai R\u0101whiti - T\u016Branga region\u2014[Interruption] \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000297\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e4b09a29-dfd3-42c0-8585-11463bd6077b\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022e4d32bae7dbf40368e827b9eb0c8123c\u0022\u003EMr SPEAKER\u003C/span\u003E: Order! Would the member please start his question again.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000298\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002281825190-fd5d-4ed0-bb80-f12f3c93e653\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022df94c8a27cea40fca97dcf153176b809\u0022\u003ERino Tirikatene\u003C/span\u003E: Does he agree that he has failed to improve the well-being of M\u0101ori in the Te Tai R\u0101whiti - T\u016Branga region and across Ng\u0101ti Kahungunu, given that since 2008 housing costs for M\u0101ori have increased by 5 percent while incomes have fallen by 14 percent; if not, why not?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000299\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002219767ece-60f1-4014-9855-74afaa34e699\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u002257e3212f93d54e169f56a9c573263464\u0022\u003EHon Dr PITA SHARPLES\u003C/span\u003E: I have most certainly worked in the Tai R\u0101whiti area, with the programmes that you have just heard, giving some credibility, food on the table, and programmes that lead towards employment. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000300\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00226007dc96-f459-4cdd-9972-4fde2c994088\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u00227c35b849153443ac82834e88d6e8a5f4\u0022\u003EGrant Robertson\u003C/span\u003E: Not affordable housing, though.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000301\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002219767ece-60f1-4014-9855-74afaa34e699\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u002259fe35eae5724bc589230a574b7a8202\u0022\u003EHon Dr PITA SHARPLES\u003C/span\u003E: I do not build houses; I insulate them.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000302\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002281825190-fd5d-4ed0-bb80-f12f3c93e653\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022a7a189de8ee84bf9a56523fe4b34136e\u0022\u003ERino Tirikatene\u003C/span\u003E: Does he agree that he has failed to improve the well-being of M\u0101ori in the Te Tai R\u0101whiti - T\u016Branga region and across Ng\u0101ti Kahungunu, given that M\u0101ori unemployment in the region has averaged around 15 percent over the past 3 years?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000303\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002219767ece-60f1-4014-9855-74afaa34e699\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u002260643aea6cf44ceb98b2878e1519ecb4\u0022\u003EHon Dr PITA SHARPLES\u003C/span\u003E: During the years leading up to the recession, you had 9 years to do something to prepare M\u0101ori for this recession.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000304\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00221dbd2811-8e58-4ffb-848d-31c0eaa9690a\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022d98f742ddbc24dff864e00c7c8221dff\u0022\u003EChris Hipkins\u003C/span\u003E: I raise a point of order, Mr Speaker. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000305\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002219767ece-60f1-4014-9855-74afaa34e699\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u00222627ba4fee2342488c556e9ae49d3764\u0022\u003EHon Dr PITA SHARPLES\u003C/span\u003E: I have not finished. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000306\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e4b09a29-dfd3-42c0-8585-11463bd6077b\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022389a7d52d7ec499fb99ca4c6a454d253\u0022\u003EMr SPEAKER\u003C/span\u003E: Order! I have a point of order. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000307\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00221dbd2811-8e58-4ffb-848d-31c0eaa9690a\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u002267f9b1961b46451abab188a5b5f26ca1\u0022\u003EChris Hipkins\u003C/span\u003E: It is a very brief point of order. It is in two parts, the first of which is that I do not think that you had 9 years to do very much when you were in Opposition. The second is that it is generally accepted that Ministers should not begin their answers to questions with an attack on the questioner.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000308\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e4b09a29-dfd3-42c0-8585-11463bd6077b\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022389e2abbf8d140b2b84910a157cb3b11\u0022\u003EMr SPEAKER\u003C/span\u003E: The first point is absolutely relevant. The Minister should refrain from bringing the Speaker into the debate. But I would ask members to have a look at the review of the Standing Orders of 2011, when it was noted that it occasionally happens. It is unhelpful for any member to raise the point of order. It is a matter for the Speaker\u2019s discretion. Would the Minister please continue with his answer.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000309\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002219767ece-60f1-4014-9855-74afaa34e699\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u00226cb1e0df4ef9487db4a6f27af618ec1b\u0022\u003EHon Dr PITA SHARPLES\u003C/span\u003E: Thank you. I have worked tirelessly in the Tai R\u0101whiti district in trade training and establishing schemes\u2014[Interruption] For example, getting people without\u2014he talked about jobs. Why do you not listen to your own question? I am creating opportunities for people without skills to do trade training and get a job.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000310\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002281825190-fd5d-4ed0-bb80-f12f3c93e653\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022595475b05c794a61a0b30c66c33cd806\u0022\u003ERino Tirikatene\u003C/span\u003E: Does he agree that his initiatives to reduce smoking among M\u0101ori have failed, given that smoking rates for non-M\u0101ori have decreased from 2007 to 2012, yet smoking rates for M\u0101ori remain unchanged; if not, why not?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000311\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002219767ece-60f1-4014-9855-74afaa34e699\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u00222c4918cb754d4776bce53234e0e4289f\u0022\u003EHon Dr PITA SHARPLES\u003C/span\u003E: Do you give up things when they are\u2014\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000312\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e4b09a29-dfd3-42c0-8585-11463bd6077b\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022b61ce3f205fd4073a77f425bf68204ff\u0022\u003EMr SPEAKER\u003C/span\u003E: Order! Do not\u2014\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000313\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002219767ece-60f1-4014-9855-74afaa34e699\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u002252ddb14b84ae4011b1900a01d1cf9927\u0022\u003EHon Dr PITA SHARPLES\u003C/span\u003E: Sorry.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000314\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e4b09a29-dfd3-42c0-8585-11463bd6077b\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u00227bd17d120e6d46a1a86a679e69563dbe\u0022\u003EMr SPEAKER\u003C/span\u003E: I do not give up.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000315\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002219767ece-60f1-4014-9855-74afaa34e699\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u00220e44da7c5cbb42f9a200a35069611df5\u0022\u003EHon Dr PITA SHARPLES\u003C/span\u003E: The cessation of smoking programme is a long-term thing, and it is going to take ages to get people to actually give up smoking completely. In 3 years\u2019 time a packet of 20 smokes will cost $20, and already people are saying it is too dear and they are dropping off. So we have just got to persevere with this if we want a healthy New Zealand.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000316\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002281825190-fd5d-4ed0-bb80-f12f3c93e653\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u00223217b5ea408f4452b28bcf39fd39d70c\u0022\u003ERino Tirikatene\u003C/span\u003E: Does he agree with the assertion in the Regional Economic Activity Report issued by his colleague Steven Joyce that the reason unemployment is higher in these regions is that too many M\u0101ori live there?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000317\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002219767ece-60f1-4014-9855-74afaa34e699\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022cd3a3bacc70349fd89a6806a89d095b0\u0022\u003EHon Dr PITA SHARPLES\u003C/span\u003E: I have no responsibility for that report.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000318\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00221dbd2811-8e58-4ffb-848d-31c0eaa9690a\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u00225310264a373a42779dea35494661680d\u0022\u003EChris Hipkins\u003C/span\u003E: I raise a point of order, Mr Speaker. The Minister of M\u0101ori Affairs does have ministerial responsibility for his own views on things, so he can say he has not seen the report, he could answer that question in a number of other ways, but simply saying that he does not have responsibility is not a correct answer.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000319\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e4b09a29-dfd3-42c0-8585-11463bd6077b\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022f92c53072a6d4c4b9364856a1fe8aeb6\u0022\u003EMr SPEAKER\u003C/span\u003E: And I accept the point the member has raised. The member is part of a Government, and, clearly, the Government has a responsibility. I will ask the member Rino Tirikatene to put the question again.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000320\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002281825190-fd5d-4ed0-bb80-f12f3c93e653\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u00220011c9a1104341638ead43ab770dc59d\u0022\u003ERino Tirikatene\u003C/span\u003E: Does he agree with the assertion in the Regional Economic Activity Report issued by his colleague Steven Joyce that the reason unemployment is higher in these regions is that too many M\u0101ori live there?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000321\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002219767ece-60f1-4014-9855-74afaa34e699\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022f3be84d7c13c41f89b42d1721c720458\u0022\u003EHon Dr PITA SHARPLES\u003C/span\u003E: No. Unemployment is high where people are not trained and do not have the qualifications or the skills. M\u0101ori are represented in those underachieving areas, and so we are usually put off first when there is a recession that we have not prepared for, and we are the last back on when there is work.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000322\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002281825190-fd5d-4ed0-bb80-f12f3c93e653\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u002279ae7a1c34a74d568eb026952358be13\u0022\u003ERino Tirikatene\u003C/span\u003E: How can he claim he is making gains for M\u0101ori by being at the table when in every major statistic that matters\u2014income, jobs, housing, and well-being\u2014M\u0101ori have gone backwards under his watch?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000323\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002219767ece-60f1-4014-9855-74afaa34e699\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022ff310438d0164e33b2306585a9fba8fc\u0022\u003EHon Dr PITA SHARPLES\u003C/span\u003E: The member is selectively picking out things to say that M\u0101ori are not improving. M\u0101ori are totally succeeding. I have here this document, which I am prepared to give you, Rino. It will cost you a donation to a family in need\u2014would you do that? It shows that the M\u0101ori Party under my and Tariana\u2019s leadership has got $1 billion\u2014$1 billion\u2014through the Budgets to M\u0101ori people, and that is a party of three. What have you done?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000324\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsSubjectHeading\u0022 id=\u0022ba47e753e99a422cbb2bf3f3938f7728\u0022\u003EKyoto Protocol, Second Commitment Period\u2014Withdrawal\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u002292557bd5-0e66-473c-a6df-7d108e7822e3\u0022 data-id=\u00222b39f95d233941e88f9fb3827613cfdb\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000325\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002292557bd5-0e66-473c-a6df-7d108e7822e3\u0022\u003E11. \u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u00222b39f95d233941e88f9fb3827613cfdb\u0022\u003EDr KENNEDY GRAHAM (Green)\u003C/span\u003E to the Minister for Climate Change Issues: Is he concerned by the continued increasing trend in atmospheric CO2 levels, that recently breached 400 parts per million at Mauna Loa?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u00223f670c71-9be5-4a7e-a197-0590da759280\u0022 data-id=\u0022eaba13656f47408b979dd163d463336a\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000326\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00223f670c71-9be5-4a7e-a197-0590da759280\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u0022eaba13656f47408b979dd163d463336a\u0022\u003EHon TIM GROSER (Minister for Climate Change Issues):\u003C/span\u003E Yes, and that is why I am concerned about the glacial pace of negotiations internationally towards a global solution to the problem.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000327\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002292557bd5-0e66-473c-a6df-7d108e7822e3\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022f52231a5f49641f8a8d25f64eb158017\u0022\u003EDr Kennedy Graham\u003C/span\u003E: Why is New Zealand\u2014with what the OECD has described as its advanced emissions trading scheme whose price signals need strengthening\u2014the only country that made a binding commitment in the first Kyoto Protocol period and has not made a second commitment?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000328\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00223f670c71-9be5-4a7e-a197-0590da759280\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u002280468c752827487e868e0e2c050a8f93\u0022\u003EHon TIM GROSER\u003C/span\u003E: There are actually nearly 100 countries that have no unilateral target, no conditional target, and no statement about whether they will even put in place policies. They account for about 22 percent of emissions, which is 100 times the level of New Zealand emissions. I think that is where the problem lies.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000329\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002292557bd5-0e66-473c-a6df-7d108e7822e3\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u00221d804f404a4d4c4bb5132f7b1af12d69\u0022\u003EDr Kennedy Graham\u003C/span\u003E: Does the Minister agree that the problem actually lies in his inability to recognise and acknowledge that the framework convention makes a distinction between the countries that he just identified as not having been required to have legal obligations and those that have, and that he is trying to get out of the group of those that have?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000330\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00223f670c71-9be5-4a7e-a197-0590da759280\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u002282280128faf641a2b597774c2671ed64\u0022\u003EHon TIM GROSER\u003C/span\u003E: That is precisely the crux of the problem. When Kyoto deals with only 14 percent of emissions, leaving 86 percent of emissions outside, we will never have progress. The entire focus internationally should be on a global agreement.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000331\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002292557bd5-0e66-473c-a6df-7d108e7822e3\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u00221aefe082cd974c4e8ec192e769137123\u0022\u003EDr Kennedy Graham\u003C/span\u003E: In determining New Zealand\u2019s commitment\u2014presumably sometime this year\u2014will the Minister reconcile his supplementary answer in question No. 6 today that \u201Cwe are aligning ourselves with world prices\u201D with today\u2019s indicative carbon spot price of 57c for certified emission reductions and 5c for emission reduction units?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000332\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00223f670c71-9be5-4a7e-a197-0590da759280\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u002276aa3460d4934c05ac1951a70890f955\u0022\u003EHon TIM GROSER\u003C/span\u003E: Absolutely. The world price is what it is. It reflects the fact that not sufficient countries are doing enough in this space, and that the eurozone is responsible for most of the carbon price, and is in the middle of a deep recession.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000333\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsSubjectHeading\u0022 id=\u00224f40abc380b04a188cece7434021c849\u0022\u003EBudget 2013\u2014Heart Disease and Diabetes Prevention and Care\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u0022a68928ea-9dd8-4a30-8e2c-a0f49dfc8bea\u0022 data-id=\u00227b7ea292bcca4c358d04491ced4e2898\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000334\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022a68928ea-9dd8-4a30-8e2c-a0f49dfc8bea\u0022\u003E12. \u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u00227b7ea292bcca4c358d04491ced4e2898\u0022\u003ELOUISE UPSTON (National\u2014Taup\u014D)\u003C/span\u003E to the Minister of Health: What initiatives are included in the Government\u2019s 2013 Budget boost for heart disease and diabetes?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u0022a83ea07a-806c-45ad-95bb-eb2c481cd0e2\u0022 data-id=\u0022be3786456a204507b599e6e896d63d81\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000335\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022a83ea07a-806c-45ad-95bb-eb2c481cd0e2\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u0022be3786456a204507b599e6e896d63d81\u0022\u003EHon TONY RYALL (Minister of Health):\u003C/span\u003E New Zealanders with or at risk of developing diabetes and heart disease will benefit from a $35.5 million boost of new funding over 4 years, which includes around about $16 million to further increase the number of people getting heart and diabetes checks, in order to facilitate better diagnosis of those with diabetes and pre-diabetes.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000336\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002209a5b71a-ca7e-4e7c-9e09-f9e63f18aa12\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u00229589c72a1a9241c4b5c7f19ca68630f2\u0022\u003EHon Annette King\u003C/span\u003E: Are the predictions for the number of people at risk of developing diabetes set to decrease over the next 4 years; if not, why, having stated that diabetes is one of our fastest-growing long-term conditions, does the funding that he is crowing about today decrease every year from 2014-15 of his 4-year project?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000337\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022a83ea07a-806c-45ad-95bb-eb2c481cd0e2\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u00220bd367fc22f542768d7fb430d1e75f7c\u0022\u003EHon TONY RYALL\u003C/span\u003E: Because those numbers are consistent with what has been announced in the Budget.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000338\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002243684a4d-fb40-469a-8e63-cdd1e354b387\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022518b825ce1ae41bf986301d92420953f\u0022\u003EBrendan Horan\u003C/span\u003E: Setting aside his answer yesterday about \u201Ca vast majority\u201D, will the Minister acknowledge that there are numbers of diabetics who are finding\u2014\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000339\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e4b09a29-dfd3-42c0-8585-11463bd6077b\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u00221493ba6269b6486db9a464df31f93926\u0022\u003EMr SPEAKER\u003C/span\u003E: Order! I am going to ask the member to restate his question. He cannot ask any member of the House to set aside an answer that was given in the House yesterday.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000340\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002243684a4d-fb40-469a-8e63-cdd1e354b387\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022f777784021714159a86b89bc2322fac3\u0022\u003EBrendan Horan\u003C/span\u003E: Will the Minister acknowledge that there are numbers of diabetics who are finding that the CareSens meters are not a safe and reliable medical device, and because of this are putting their lives at risk daily?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000341\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022a83ea07a-806c-45ad-95bb-eb2c481cd0e2\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022169f12c7428c48c5802a5ea818c24447\u0022\u003EHon TONY RYALL\u003C/span\u003E: Patients who have concerns should talk to their pharmacist or general practitioner. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n    \u003C/div\u003E\n    \u003Cdiv class=\u0022HpsHansard\u0022\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000342\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsProceedingHeading\u0022 id=\u00220db3958a51304c0eb2d3affbdf9d0803\u0022\u003EBudget Debate\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n    \u003C/div\u003E\n    \u003Cdiv class=\u0022HpsHansard\u0022\u003E\n      \u003Cp\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsProceedingHeading\u0022\u003EBills\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000343\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsSubjectHeading\u0022 id=\u0022b343894c2de949f58d352bb95fc9254b\u0022\u003EAppropriation (2013/14 Estimates) Bill\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000344\u0022\u003EDebate resumed from 5 June on the .\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u002285ec30d4-6394-433a-a12e-2c4def705dd0\u0022 data-id=\u0022b9a71c7ba2de4df6bdf6126975b9ed7c\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000345\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002285ec30d4-6394-433a-a12e-2c4def705dd0\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u0022b9a71c7ba2de4df6bdf6126975b9ed7c\u0022\u003EHon JUDITH COLLINS (Minister of Justice):\u003C/span\u003E Well, what a great Budget it was this year. We know that it is a great Budget when the Opposition does not want to talk about it. Day in, day out we have had question time since the Budget, and day in, day out the Labour Party has wanted to talk about anything except the Budget. Where have the questions on the Budget been? No, they have not been there. In fact, we have had to ask our own questions on the Budget because the Opposition does not want to attack us on it. Instead, it has gone and talked about things that the people of New Zealand do not think are important, and continues to do so. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000346\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002285ec30d4-6394-433a-a12e-2c4def705dd0\u0022\u003EIn the justice portfolio I have to say, yet again, that I am so outstandingly excited and pleased with the work that is going on right across the justice sector, as we work towards our Better Public Services targets. Part of that, of course, is about reducing reoffending rates, and that is something that the Labour Party could never do. All it could do was build new prisons and put more people in jail. It went from about 5,000 prisoners in 1999 when Labour came into office, to 8,500 by the time it left office, only 9 years later. Labour members are the people who would not deal with recidivism and would not put in the programmes dealing with reoffending that they needed to. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000347\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002285ec30d4-6394-433a-a12e-2c4def705dd0\u0022\u003EThis Government, in this Budget\u2014even though it is a tight Budget and even though there is not a lot of money to splurge around as we are trying to get back into surplus\u2014has put in an extra $4.4 million to expand restorative justice. This is a Government that actually deals with reoffending, that actually deals with crime, and that actually gets crime down. So across the justice sector, across corrections, across the police, and across the justice ministry we have these targets, which are all about reducing crime. We have got targets for ourselves for 2017 of a 20 percent reduction in violent crime, a 15 percent reduction in recorded crime, a 5 percent reduction in youth crime, and a 25 percent reduction in reoffending. That is a whopping target to give ourselves. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000348\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002285ec30d4-6394-433a-a12e-2c4def705dd0\u0022\u003EHow are we going so far? Well, after 18 months on these targets we currently have a 9 percent reduction in recorded crime, a 7 percent reduction in violent crime, a whopping 14 percent reduction in youth crime, and an 8 percent reduction in reoffending\u2014an 8 percent reduction in reoffending already. It is a shame that Labour never cared enough about people to actually bring down these rates, but we are doing it, and we are doing it at a time when the rest of the world is in economic turmoil. We look at what is happening in Europe, we look at what is happening even over in Australia, which has been always the lucky country, and yet it is starting to find it pretty tough as well. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000349\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002285ec30d4-6394-433a-a12e-2c4def705dd0\u0022\u003EWe have got through this very difficult time by being very careful, and by focusing on what matters. What matters actually is the people of New Zealand and what they want. They want less crime, and they are getting it. We are delivering it. At the same time, what we are doing is we are giving the technology tools to our workers in the justice sector, the police, corrections, and in the ministry so that they can make better use of their time, and they do not have to spend as much time travelling to and from the police station, the courts, or wherever. They can actually use iPads, iPhones, and everything else so they can access the information they need. This is about safety for them. It is also about efficiency, and it is about keeping crime down. We are going great guns. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000350\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002285ec30d4-6394-433a-a12e-2c4def705dd0\u0022\u003EI would like to acknowledge my colleagues in the justice sector, the other Ministers: the Hon Anne Tolley, the Hon Chester Borrows, and the Hon Chris Finlayson. I am so proud of the way that we work together. We are just a fantastic team. I have to say that we support each other, but we also have a great team in the Justice and Electoral Committee, chaired ably by Mr Scott Simpson, MP for Coromandel, just in case the Labour Party does not know where the Coromandel is. Labour never held it. The great thing is that Scott Simpson is doing a fantastic job, and before him Tim Macindoe. I am just so proud of it. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000351\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002285ec30d4-6394-433a-a12e-2c4def705dd0\u0022\u003ELet us come to ACC. My goodness, I am so proud to be the Minister for ACC. No, I really am, actually. We are going great guns in ACC. National came into office, and we inherited an absolute financial mess in ACC. But also we actually inherited a situation where 14,000 people were lingering on very long-term payments from ACC.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000352\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022163d0b68-eb0e-4094-9bed-99e184f063e1\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022249a1df08d5f4e98a05c428e5ecc628f\u0022\u003EJami-Lee Ross\u003C/span\u003E: How many?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000353\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002285ec30d4-6394-433a-a12e-2c4def705dd0\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u002279abc2d0f4f440c280712f1ff77b5a45\u0022\u003EHon JUDITH COLLINS\u003C/span\u003E: It was 14,000 people. Since then we have been able to rehabilitate 3,000 people, so now there are 11,000 people on these long-term benefits. At the same time those numbers are continuing to drop and ACC is now able to do some other things to help people, and to help prevent injuries, which I think is something it should be doing. ACC has a real role in preventing injuries, and preventing people from ending up losing their independence. If that does happen for a period of time, ACC has a role in trying to get them back to wellness or to as much independence as they possibly can. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000354\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002285ec30d4-6394-433a-a12e-2c4def705dd0\u0022\u003EThe biggest risk to ACC and its viability, now that it is, by the way, fully funded in the work account and the earners account, is a change of Government to a Green-Labour alliance\u2014a Green-Labour alliance. That is the worst thing. Under the Budget\u2014[Interruption] I know that Mr Little hates it when I talk about ACC, because it is such a good-news story, and he was so ineffective as the Labour spokesman that in fact Sue Moroney had to take over, and she has been fabulous ever since; I have really enjoyed working with her. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000355\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002285ec30d4-6394-433a-a12e-2c4def705dd0\u0022\u003EWhat we are doing is we are signalling a levy drop. That is in effect a tax refund for all New Zealanders who work. So that is around about $300 million down, a levy drop in the next year, the 2014-15 year, and probably a drop of about a billion dollars in the year after that. So we are already delivering, through this, about a 40 percent drop in levies from the time that we took office. If you look at any of the work that is being done around this, the biggest risk to ACC is a Greens-Labour alliance. That is the biggest risk. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000356\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002285ec30d4-6394-433a-a12e-2c4def705dd0\u0022\u003EThen I have my other portfolio of ethnic affairs. It is a lovely portfolio. I just love ethnic affairs because this Government is all about diversity. We celebrate diversity, unlike the Labour Party, which patronises people and behaves like it does. Look how badly it treats women over there. One of the great things we have done in ethnic affairs is that we have been able to take ethnic affairs and we have been able to focus on the really great things out of diversity. The EPIC conference is all about ethnic people in commerce. What we have done\u2014it started last year, and, yes, it was my idea, OK, but there is more of it this year, and we will do more of it next year\u2014is we are bringing together ethnic people in business and saying, look, the whole of New Zealand has to be focused on business and making this country do really well and perform, so let us actually connect people from traditional, mainstream New Zealand businesses with the many people who have come to New Zealand and who choose to be New Zealanders. These are great people. Let us get them together, and let us help. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000357\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002285ec30d4-6394-433a-a12e-2c4def705dd0\u0022\u003ELast year we started it off. We had a great inaugural conference of about 200 people. This year, just a couple of weeks ago, I was at the opening\u2014well, yes, I did open it\u2014and there were about 400-odd people there. It was fantastic. It was a great success. I have heard fantastic feedback about the Office of Ethnic Affairs and the work that it is doing, along with our many ethnic communities, but it is also about building relationships with more mainstream parts of business, like the New Zealand Institute of Management. We now have a memorandum of understanding with it so that it in fact is learning from the many advantages of ethnic diversity in the workplace. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000358\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002285ec30d4-6394-433a-a12e-2c4def705dd0\u0022\u003EOne of the great things that I could announce\u2014that I have announced, but obviously no one in the Labour Party wants to talk about it\u2014is about extending Language Line. Language Line is something that ethnic affairs has had running that has helped many people who have had to interact with Government agencies but who did not necessarily feel that confident at speaking in English. Language Line is the basic telephone translating service that has been available to Government departments and people interacting with them. We are now extending that service to private businesses, to be able to provide it to them on a user-pays basis. Because the Office of Ethnic Affairs is only a little agency, it does not have a lot of staff, and we want to make sure we do it right. What we are doing is that we are expanding the service out first to the big banks, and then it will go further and further from there. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000359\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002285ec30d4-6394-433a-a12e-2c4def705dd0\u0022\u003EMy vision of this would be to be able to say that anybody who wants to access any form of business or any social service should be able to contact those services or use Language Line to help them. That is something that I think businesses and the people of New Zealand will all benefit from. It is actually about making the very best of the 4.5 million people who choose to call New Zealand home. We are a little country, our population is even less than that of Melbourne, and yet we are a great little country. I think New Zealand is a fantastic country, the best country in the world. I am proud to be representing this Government. This Budget is a great Budget, and we know how great it is because those members never want to talk about it.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000360\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002285ec30d4-6394-433a-a12e-2c4def705dd0\u0022\u003EDebate interrupted.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n    \u003C/div\u003E\n    \u003Cdiv class=\u0022HpsHansard\u0022\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000361\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsProceedingHeading\u0022 id=\u00228f3bfdac4f964509912e7c370ceaf60c\u0022\u003EPoints of Order\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000362\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsSubjectHeading\u0022 id=\u0022fde99642c5d04d1f8f6c06b76ed91db0\u0022\u003EQuestions for Oral Answer\u2014Withdrawal of Unparliamentary Remark\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u00225bbd9f26-fdb0-4b85-a836-0fc46e1bba3c\u0022 data-id=\u0022541345cff9fe4c7ca56406c5872edbbb\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000363\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00225bbd9f26-fdb0-4b85-a836-0fc46e1bba3c\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u0022541345cff9fe4c7ca56406c5872edbbb\u0022\u003EDr DAVID CLARK (Labour\u2014Dunedin North):\u003C/span\u003E I raise a point of order, Mr Speaker. During the heat of the debate earlier I made a comment that was unparliamentary and inappropriate. I withdraw and apologise. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n    \u003C/div\u003E\n    \u003Cdiv class=\u0022HpsHansard\u0022\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000364\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsProceedingHeading\u0022 id=\u00222cf76d17fe314be9b1091900bd07ad45\u0022\u003EBudget Debate\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n    \u003C/div\u003E\n    \u003Cdiv class=\u0022HpsHansard\u0022\u003E\n      \u003Cp\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsProceedingHeading\u0022\u003EBills\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000365\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsSubjectHeading\u0022 id=\u0022d632873b7c7748d0bd0b85bae684465a\u0022\u003EAppropriation (2013/14 Estimates) Bill\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000366\u0022\u003EDebate resumed on the .\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u00226007dc96-f459-4cdd-9972-4fde2c994088\u0022 data-id=\u0022243b39c3e4a348a7acb875aa0c43c311\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000367\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00226007dc96-f459-4cdd-9972-4fde2c994088\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u0022243b39c3e4a348a7acb875aa0c43c311\u0022\u003EGRANT ROBERTSON (Deputy Leader\u2014Labour):\u003C/span\u003E Just so we get the numbers exactly right, there are 10 members in Judith Collins\u2019 faction. Just so we get the numbers exactly right, there are 10 in Judith Collins\u2019 faction. Steven Joyce could not get out of here quick enough. He could not get out of here quick enough. He even walked in front of Judith Collins just to make sure he made the point. Judith Collins is so busy on Twitter\u2014she is so busy on Twitter\u2014she is not doing even the fundamental bits of her portfolio. Marie Shroff, not a woman known for major exaggeration, is in the paper this morning criticising the Government, saying that it is lagging behind on privacy issues. She said that she lamented the behaviour of the Minister. Well, we do that every day on this side of the House. We lament the behaviour of Judith Collins because she is failing in her duty as a Minister to look after the privacy concerns of New Zealanders. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000368\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00226007dc96-f459-4cdd-9972-4fde2c994088\u0022\u003EWhat this Budget will be remembered for is something that that Minister knows a great deal about. This will be the Budget that will be remembered for National looking after its mates. We saw no better example of that than we have over the last few days. This Budget will pass today\u2014we know that. We can see that on this side of the House. It will pass today with the vote of John Banks, who the police have said broke the Local Electoral Act. He is currently in court with a private prosecution because he broke the Local Electoral Act. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000369\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002298dbeffa-e059-49d5-8bbf-579cbaead9a3\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u00224bcc3be032204c908316ef57770a9e32\u0022\u003EScott Simpson\u003C/span\u003E: Mark Peck. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000370\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00226007dc96-f459-4cdd-9972-4fde2c994088\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u00229c4c7a60d2274791a1b5104d69f70e00\u0022\u003EGRANT ROBERTSON\u003C/span\u003E: He should not be in this Parliament. He was handed a cheque, Mr Simpson. He was handed a cheque by Skycity for $15,000 and he did not declare that. He asked for a donation from Kim Dotcom and he did not declare that. That is the shabby behaviour that will prop up this Government and that will pass this Budget. And then we have Peter Dunne, who is not the leader of a registered political party. He is not the leader of a registered political party, and yet he retains that status and all the funding that goes with it. This is a shabby Government, propped up by shabby parties, which has delivered a shabby Budget. The members on the other side of the House should hang their heads in shame when they look at this Budget, because the message that they are sending to New Zealanders is that they will look after their mates, not your mates. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000371\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00226007dc96-f459-4cdd-9972-4fde2c994088\u0022\u003EI think the other thing that this Budget will be remembered for is what happened during the urgency debate around the Budget. I want to make very clear to this House that the process that the National Party went through when it was passing the carers bill was obscene and against our democratic process. Professor Andrew Geddis from Otago University put it this way. He said: \u201CI think National just broke our constitution.\u201D That is what it did. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000372\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00226e1ead03-bf7f-496a-a02f-ce52859c58c1\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u002270599f659cd842a3bf9d559a17ffdf17\u0022\u003EHon Hekia Parata\u003C/span\u003E: Oh!\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000373\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00226007dc96-f459-4cdd-9972-4fde2c994088\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022409069f84dbf4229b33626c1d22b0296\u0022\u003EGRANT ROBERTSON\u003C/span\u003E: Hekia Parata dismisses it. Well-known constitutional law expert Hekia Parata dismisses that!\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000374\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00226e1ead03-bf7f-496a-a02f-ce52859c58c1\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u002244eb9e73e4054d0289869bded6abc6c0\u0022\u003EHon Hekia Parata\u003C/span\u003E: No need for disparagement, I just don\u2019t agree. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000375\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00226007dc96-f459-4cdd-9972-4fde2c994088\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u00224decd5004024478ea2fba8b551096610\u0022\u003EGRANT ROBERTSON\u003C/span\u003E: She does not agree with it. Well, she should go and read Andrew Geddis\u2019 piece and see that what he is saying is that National fundamentally undermined the rights of New Zealanders by shoving that legislation through under urgency, by not having a proper regulatory impact statement, and by denying the rights of those carers to go to court. That is what happened under this Budget. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000376\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00226007dc96-f459-4cdd-9972-4fde2c994088\u0022\u003EAnd do you know what? Under this Budget, John Key keeps claiming a mandate for this and a mandate for that. Well, I have decided that Mr Key does know something about man dates\u2014he has been on a number of them. He went on one with Ian Fletcher, and that certainly got someone a job. He went on one with Skycity, and that certainly got it a deal. He went on a man date with Warner Bros as well\u2014that got it a deal. Steven Joyce caught the bromance bug. He went on a man date as well, with Shell. That is the kind of man date that the National Party believes in, not the mandate for the public of New Zealand. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000377\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00226007dc96-f459-4cdd-9972-4fde2c994088\u0022\u003EThe one thing I want to focus on in this speech in terms of the content of the Budget, for Judith Collins\u2019 benefit, is around employment. I want to make very clear that if anyone in New Zealand believes that this Government knows what it is doing with the economy, knows what it wants to do for New Zealand, and has a plan, they should take a look at the unemployment statistics and they will think again\u2014146,000 New Zealanders are unemployed. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000378\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022163d0b68-eb0e-4094-9bed-99e184f063e1\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022660a228412fe47fe8e0084d85e2dfda6\u0022\u003EJami-Lee Ross\u003C/span\u003E: It\u2019s coming down. It\u2019s coming down. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000379\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00226007dc96-f459-4cdd-9972-4fde2c994088\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022ac3ef7803a1a45a1bc21b22c47c4cb99\u0022\u003EGRANT ROBERTSON\u003C/span\u003E: Jami-Lee Ross says that it is coming down. Well, I hate to let the member know that that is 41,000 more New Zealanders unemployed than when National took office. Also, since National took office, the number of 15 to 24-year-olds unemployed has gone up by 12,100. The number of 15 to 24-year-olds who are not in employment, are not in education, and are not in training is up by 12,000 to 79,000 people\u201479,000 young New Zealanders not in employment, not in education, and not in training. That is the failure of this Government: the failure to invest in our young people so that they have the opportunity to achieve their potential. That is the failure of this Government. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000380\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00226007dc96-f459-4cdd-9972-4fde2c994088\u0022\u003EWhat the Government said in the 2011 election campaign\u2014and everybody on this side of the House remembers it because National Party MPs repeated it on the election stand\u2014was that there would be 170,000 extra jobs created by this Government by 2015. Well, what we discover in Budget 2013 is that National will fall 61,000 jobs short of that target. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000381\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002237a99b65-4919-4800-830d-3dd7c920d5cd\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022b7b52545cba9426d97180a14d5fa19fc\u0022\u003EDr Megan Woods\u003C/span\u003E: How many?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000382\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00226007dc96-f459-4cdd-9972-4fde2c994088\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u00228e770c9fc9554ad0b661f9381f308be5\u0022\u003EGRANT ROBERTSON\u003C/span\u003E: Sixty-one thousand\u2014the population of Nelson. That is how far National will fall short of its promise made in the 2011 election campaign to create extra jobs. The Government does not have the policies or the commitment to focus on creating jobs. In fact, it has a policy agenda that goes in the other direction from creating jobs, by creating a two-speed economy where the regions of New Zealand do not have the support and the resources to create jobs, and by putting in place employment relations legislation that will drive down wages and that will deny people their rights at work. The Government has policies that are against work and that are against jobs, not in favour of growing them. That is why the Government will fall 61,000 jobs short. In the last year only 8,000 extra jobs were created in New Zealand. That is why the Government is falling short, because the National Party does not have the policies that are required to make this happen. But what is worse is that, in this Budget, National has recommitted again to a target of 170,000 new jobs in the next 4 years. So having completely failed to achieve the promised target in 2011, it has decided to make up the same target again. It is a recidivist offender, the National Party. It keeps making up these promises, and it keeps failing to deliver. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000383\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00226007dc96-f459-4cdd-9972-4fde2c994088\u0022\u003EPeople in New Zealand who heard John Key\u2019s statement that there would be a brighter future have been let down. They have been disappointed. The vested interests of New Zealand see a brighter future. The Skycity deal-makers see a brighter future. But the ordinary, hard-working, wage-earning New Zealanders do not have that brighter future. That has been put aside, put on the scrap heap of slogans, along with being ambitious for New Zealand. That is what this Government said it would be: ambitious for New Zealand. At best at the moment the Government can say that it is ambiguous for New Zealand. That is the best that it can say at the moment, because this Government has failed to put up a plan that will actually drive the kind of job creation that is needed in this country. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000384\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00226007dc96-f459-4cdd-9972-4fde2c994088\u0022\u003EThe Labour Party has been absolutely clear about what we believe should drive job creation. We want to pull the big levers in our economy. We want to change monetary policy so that it actually allows people to create jobs, with a stable and lower exchange rate. We want to make sure that we have fair procurement rules, so that New Zealand Kiwi companies actually get a fair go at bidding for Government contracts. We want to make sure that we have apprentices as part of those contracts, so we do not have people on the scrap heap. If Phil Goff\u2019s promise to New Zealanders had been allowed to be fulfilled, we would have had people training so that they could do the Christchurch work. Instead, that side of the House has decided that it is OK to import workers into New Zealand because it sat on its hands. We need to pull the smaller levers too. We need to get in there and assist 18 and 19-year-olds who are on the dole, by making the dole payment a subsidy for an apprenticeship. There is a practical policy that this Government could have picked up, and it has failed to do so. Today in industries like the building industry they are thousands of workers short because that Government sat on its hands. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000385\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00226007dc96-f459-4cdd-9972-4fde2c994088\u0022\u003EThis National Government has no plan to grow jobs. Its own Budget tells the Government that it is falling woefully short of its target. This is a shabby Budget, backed by a shabby Government, with two support parties in John Banks and Peter Dunne. In terms of Mr Banks, he should not be able to be in this House, and in terms of Mr Dunne, he should not be able to receive his allowances as a party. Today, I hate to say, is a day of great shame for our democracy in New Zealand. This Government has shown that its approach to supporting vested interests does not end outside this House; it happens in this Chamber as well. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u00226e1ead03-bf7f-496a-a02f-ce52859c58c1\u0022 data-id=\u00228c6b35380f004044ab6b0657e2ee8892\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000386\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00226e1ead03-bf7f-496a-a02f-ce52859c58c1\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u00228c6b35380f004044ab6b0657e2ee8892\u0022\u003EHon HEKIA PARATA (Minister of Education):\u003C/span\u003E T\u0113n\u0101 koe, Mr Assistant Speaker, otir\u0101, t\u0113n\u0101 t\u0101tou huri noa i t\u014D t\u0101tou Whare.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000387\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00226e1ead03-bf7f-496a-a02f-ce52859c58c1\u0022\u003E[Thank you, Mr Speaker, and, indeed, greetings to us throughout our House.]\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000388\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00226e1ead03-bf7f-496a-a02f-ce52859c58c1\u0022\u003EI am delighted to stand and participate in this debate, because Budget 2013 has been the fifth Budget in a row in which we have seen our Government put its money where its mouth is, which is into education, unlike the Opposition. There have been five Budgets since we have been in Government, and in each of those Budgets we have raised the investment in education. The amount of $9.7 billion\u2014$9.7 billion\u2014reflects a 74 percent increase in early childhood education investment\u2014\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000389\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002237a99b65-4919-4800-830d-3dd7c920d5cd\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u00224dba0b9edbcf48a6983efe421d00f6aa\u0022\u003EDr Megan Woods\u003C/span\u003E: Why did you cross out the date on the Manning proposal?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000390\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00226e1ead03-bf7f-496a-a02f-ce52859c58c1\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022ad30ed30189a4e7da688b8af96f82a5d\u0022\u003EHon HEKIA PARATA\u003C/span\u003E: \u2014which the Opposition loves to rant on about, but, actually, this Government does stuff about it. We have 95.5 percent\u2014\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000391\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002237a99b65-4919-4800-830d-3dd7c920d5cd\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u00225089d63e3abc4bcea6642b7ef3b6533e\u0022\u003EDr Megan Woods\u003C/span\u003E: Why did you change it? Why did you let that community down?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000392\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00226e1ead03-bf7f-496a-a02f-ce52859c58c1\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022ec35306a8f334707892bd426995ee350\u0022\u003EHon HEKIA PARATA\u003C/span\u003E: If Dr Woods would care to listen, instead of ranting, she might learn something, and it is that in early childhood education we have invested $1.5 billion in Budget 2013. That is a 74 percent increase. A shipload of money has gone into early childhood education in the last 5 years, and it has had an effect. We have seen the numbers of kids participating in early childhood education increase to 95.5 percent\u2014\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000393\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00227df975cd-93d2-4f55-9bc5-d2790e28e043\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u002218a66f1dbdf64acba077a6ee64516e6e\u0022\u003EHon Maryan Street\u003C/span\u003E: I raise a point of order, Mr Speaker. I am not certain, but I think there was some unparliamentary language used a moment ago\u2014\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000394\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00226e1ead03-bf7f-496a-a02f-ce52859c58c1\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022f88b09688fe945ecb9b1b7688586d28e\u0022\u003EHon HEKIA PARATA\u003C/span\u003E: Shipload.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000395\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00227df975cd-93d2-4f55-9bc5-d2790e28e043\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022ca05c856b8cf4a73a7bc1614f7c8e6e9\u0022\u003EHon Maryan Street\u003C/span\u003E: Shipload? Thank you for clarifying that for me.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000396\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002270fa4cbd-9380-4916-9f2a-78da059d220e\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u00223ad50a3cdad443629c1b86f25d11a511\u0022\u003EThe ASSISTANT SPEAKER (H V Ross Robertson)\u003C/span\u003E: It had me confused as well. I can understand where the member was coming from.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000397\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002243684a4d-fb40-469a-8e63-cdd1e354b387\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022f26bf573614e4a39ad010a471b636ac1\u0022\u003EBrendan Horan\u003C/span\u003E: I raise a point of order, Mr Speaker.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000398\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002270fa4cbd-9380-4916-9f2a-78da059d220e\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u002211f44567143d4da1b465d45f8457e5bc\u0022\u003EThe ASSISTANT SPEAKER (H V Ross Robertson)\u003C/span\u003E: Sorry, Mr Horan. I did not see you at the back.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000399\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002243684a4d-fb40-469a-8e63-cdd1e354b387\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022145a78ce49804b61bfc071b388ed8327\u0022\u003EBrendan Horan\u003C/span\u003E: I was going to suggest that perhaps our Te Reo could help there, and it could be a waka-load.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000400\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002270fa4cbd-9380-4916-9f2a-78da059d220e\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u002213b88cdc32e347c4b863f6d5fa5164dc\u0022\u003EThe ASSISTANT SPEAKER (H V Ross Robertson)\u003C/span\u003E: That is a frivolous interjection, designed to break up a speech. If it happens again, the member will get a yellow card.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000401\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00226e1ead03-bf7f-496a-a02f-ce52859c58c1\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022a8d103c75b964c02b0e9967bd7a1ade7\u0022\u003EHon HEKIA PARATA\u003C/span\u003E: \u0100, t\u0113n\u0101 koe e te Mana Whakahaere. Mehemea t\u0113r\u0101 mema e p\u012Brangi ana ki te whakarongo i roto i Te Reo M\u0101ori, ka m\u014Dhio mai a ia, kei te k\u014Drero ahau m\u014D te kait\u0101 o te p\u016Btea m\u014D te m\u0101tauranga.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000402\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00226e1ead03-bf7f-496a-a02f-ce52859c58c1\u0022\u003E[And thank you, Mr Speaker. If that member wanted to listen to what is being stated in the M\u0101ori language, she might understand that I am talking about the funding for education being massive.]\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000403\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00226e1ead03-bf7f-496a-a02f-ce52859c58c1\u0022\u003EI hope we have illuminated that point of view. This is a great Budget, generally and specifically, for education. New Zealand has a world-class education system, and it is top performing for most but not for all. This Government is ambitious for each and every New Zealand child and young person. We are not happy with averages of four out of five, in the case of M\u0101ori one out of two, and in the case of Pasifika two out of three. We want it to be the situation that five out of five young people do well in the New Zealand education system and are able to step out powerfully and strongly on the next step of their lives. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000404\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00226e1ead03-bf7f-496a-a02f-ce52859c58c1\u0022\u003EThis Government understands that the long-term, sustainable remedy for unemployment for any young people, but certainly for the higher levels of unemployment amongst M\u0101ori and Pasifika, is an excellent education. That is what we are dedicated to delivering, and that is why we have a Better Public Services set of targets of 98 percent of young people being engaged in early childhood education in 2016. We are at 95.5 percent, and that has occurred off the back of investments that have increased by 74 percent since we came into Government and cast our first Budget in 2008-09.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000405\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00226e1ead03-bf7f-496a-a02f-ce52859c58c1\u0022\u003E In the secondary area we have a Better Public Services target of 85 percent of 18-year-olds securing National Certificate of Educational Achievement (NCEA) level 2 in 2017. We know that business as usual would not get us to 85 percent. We are ambitious. We are aspirational. We mean what we say. We want meaningful qualifications for every one of our 18-year-olds. On the current trend we will not get there and that is why we are investing. We have increased the investment into the compulsory sector by 30 percent in the five Budgets that we have passed. So again we are investing. In 2013 we have over 500 million new dollars being invested in education. Together with the contingencies that have been provided, that is $1.04 billion over the next 4 years in early childhood education, in secondary education, and in the secondary-tertiary transition space. I have talked about early childhood education, but the story gets even better in secondary schooling. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000406\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00226e1ead03-bf7f-496a-a02f-ce52859c58c1\u0022\u003EWe know that our education system, as I have said, is a world-class education system. It is seventh on the Programme for International Student Assessment. Disaggregated, New Zealand European, P\u0101keh\u0101, or Palagi are second in the world. That is magnificent. It tells us that our education system is extremely capable of performing for the majority of students. However, M\u0101ori are 34th and Pasifika are 44th. We are unique in the 65 countries measured in the Programme for International Student Assessment in being both top performing and having the lowest equity. Our Government is not going to do what members on those Opposition benches did in the 9 years they were in Government, which was publish reports and wring their hands. What we are doing is focusing on how we get a lift across the system for every one of our students. Too many of those being left behind are M\u0101ori or Pasifika, come from poorer homes, or have special educational needs, or permutations thereof. We are not prepared to sit on the sideline and say: \u201COh well, that just happens.\u201D No, we are focused on how we raise achievement across the board. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000407\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00226e1ead03-bf7f-496a-a02f-ce52859c58c1\u0022\u003EWe are doing that in education in the secondary and primary area by investing in national standards. The most comprehensive data said we can participate in samples, but this Government had the courage to say: \u201CNo, samples are not enough.\u201D We need to know how each and every child is doing in our education system. We will have year 2 of national standards data this year, It will be better than last year\u2019s, next year\u2019s will be better than this year\u2019s, and we will continually improve, as we have done in NCEA and in other parts of the education system. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000408\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00226e1ead03-bf7f-496a-a02f-ce52859c58c1\u0022\u003EWe know that the two in-school contributors that make the biggest difference to education are the quality of teaching and the quality of education leadership. That is why in this Budget we have put nearly $40 million into a quality teaching agenda. We know that we have to invest in raising quality, and, by the way, $340 million over the next 4 years is going into professional learning and development. We need to both attract the best and the brightest into the profession and make sure that the 82,000 who are already in the profession are constantly getting the opportunity to improve their skills through professional development, so that they can, as the chief review officer said so simply yet so profoundly, cause learning to happen, and know that it did. Our system relies on that happening for each and every child.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000409\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00226e1ead03-bf7f-496a-a02f-ce52859c58c1\u0022\u003EOne of the biggest challenges we have is the diversity we have within schools, not so much the diversity between schools. Therefore, that means the quality of teaching can be very variegated within schools and we have to address that. These are all the hard issues that this Government is addressing, and we are doing it by putting money where it will make the most difference. We are putting it where it will be most sustainable. So the quality teaching agenda is a very big part of that. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000410\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00226e1ead03-bf7f-496a-a02f-ce52859c58c1\u0022\u003EBut we also know, in particular for M\u0101ori students, that on average they do better in kura kaupapa than they do in mainstream. We have to address both. But one of the things that this Budget has done is invest in over 280 scholarships to recruit kura teachers into the kura kaupapa stream\u2014that is, teachers who are capable and excellent at both speaking and teaching in Te Reo M\u0101ori. It has the highest attrition rate. Teachers who go into kura last about 3 years, because it is so tough teaching in that area, yet it turns out the best possible results for M\u0101ori students. So we have recognised that\u2014the first Government to do so\u2014and are investing in that area. We have also recognised that mentoring and support to keep kura teachers who are already in kura kaupapa there, and we have invested $12 million in how to support them. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000411\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00226e1ead03-bf7f-496a-a02f-ce52859c58c1\u0022\u003EWe have also recognised that out-of-school requirements are needed to help students do better, whether that is homework centres, or whether that is one-on-one mentoring. So we have invested nearly $6 million into mentoring. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000412\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00226e1ead03-bf7f-496a-a02f-ce52859c58c1\u0022\u003EParents\u2014parents are the unsung heroes and heroines of our education system. It is parents who make sure that their kids value education, that they get to school each day, and that they have the understanding that doing well at school will set them up for a very good life. Parents are the people who people our 2,500 boards across the country. There are 16,600 parents who volunteer every 3 years to be on the boards of trustees of schools. We have recognised that and in this Budget have made an 85 percent increase in the funding for school boards and for volunteers, to give them the skills and tools they need to be successful. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000413\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00226e1ead03-bf7f-496a-a02f-ce52859c58c1\u0022\u003EFinally, we have also recognised that communities have great initiatives about how they can engage with their schools so that students stay at school\u2014because obviously if you are at school you are going to do more learning than if you are not\u2014and how we can ensure that when they are at school they are well behaved and they are learning and their fellow students can learn. So we have put into this Budget an initiative fund of nearly $2.5 million, which will respond to communities having ideas about how we can get stronger engagement. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000414\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00226e1ead03-bf7f-496a-a02f-ce52859c58c1\u0022\u003EThe three things that make the most difference to the quality of education that a young person will have in school are the quality of teaching and the quality of leadership\u2014and we have invested in this Budget in those\u2014and, out of school, the strength of parental and community engagement, and we are investing in that. We used an evidence base. We have increased funding in this Budget for schools by 30 percent and for early childhood education by 74 percent. This is a great education Budget. I am very proud of it and of the Minister of Finance for recognising the absolute criticality, the importance of education. Thank you.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u002243684a4d-fb40-469a-8e63-cdd1e354b387\u0022 data-id=\u00222acce35a18154d0ba721bd1c5f115f3f\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000415\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002243684a4d-fb40-469a-8e63-cdd1e354b387\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u00222acce35a18154d0ba721bd1c5f115f3f\u0022\u003EBRENDAN HORAN (Independent):\u003C/span\u003E The Minister of Education mentioned three things. There are three Ds about this Budget, and those are distraction, desperation, and despair. National campaigned on a promise of a brighter future, but this Budget has cast New Zealand under a long black cloud. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000416\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002243684a4d-fb40-469a-8e63-cdd1e354b387\u0022\u003EIn the health sector there is a serious problem of the Government\u2019s own making, which the Minister of Health has wilfully and dangerously refused to accept. He is ignoring the problems caused by the new diabetes testing meters\u2014the CareSens brand. Minister Tony Ryall and Pharmac are deliberately taking away from people the Accu-Chek and other meters, which diabetics know are reliable and trust. In question time he averts from and avoids acknowledging the concerns our diabetics\u2014both type 1 and type 2 diabetics\u2014have issued, and they must be listened to. I have news for the Minister, Mr Ryall: diabetics have been to doctors, nurses, and pharmacists, and doctors, nurses, and pharmacists have had it up to here with the complaints not only about the meters but also about faulty testing strips. I have been contacted by large numbers of people who are reporting problems with the CareSens meters. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000417\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002298dbeffa-e059-49d5-8bbf-579cbaead9a3\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u002208beeeba8f4943af8609d4194a943fb0\u0022\u003EScott Simpson\u003C/span\u003E: How many?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000418\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002243684a4d-fb40-469a-8e63-cdd1e354b387\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u00221d9d7e32fdcf427d9cad242fbe6ddcc5\u0022\u003EBRENDAN HORAN\u003C/span\u003E: The meters will not work in temperatures below 10 degrees Celsius. How useless is that for New Zealand? They are much like the interjections from that member over there. They give unreliable results. In my hand here I have an example. This photo was taken by Helen Lockley of New Plymouth. She has given me express permission to use this. Her young son has diabetes, and an accurate meter is essential for her and him to be able to manage his sugar levels. This is scary. Here we have the Accu-Chek meter reading 4.0 and the CareSens meter reading 5.9. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000419\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022c83012b4-3939-4753-80fc-1956a3e2bd1e\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022c8dcc22f5b1d43128d44e407d81a924b\u0022\u003EHon Michael Woodhouse\u003C/span\u003E: How do you know which one\u2019s right?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000420\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002243684a4d-fb40-469a-8e63-cdd1e354b387\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u00227750a59ca4114d688369b3daa8461ce3\u0022\u003EBRENDAN HORAN\u003C/span\u003E: This is scary because these meters are not consistently different. Like that member\u2019s interjections, they are inconsistently different, and I would say that this is actually a very serious\u2014serious\u2014problem that I am talking about. It is really not one that you should be interjecting on\u2014sorry, Mr Assistant Speaker; I mean that member over there. Here we have the comparison of the two meters: the white Accu-Chek meter on the left and the black CareSens meter on the right. They were careful to take the readings from the same drop of blood at the same time. As I said, the difference is life-threatening to a diabetic. One meter reads high; the other meter reads low\u2014well, not low but correct\u2014and that person would then be seeking some insulin. We would not tolerate such discrepancies at the supermarket or the service station, would we? And we should not tolerate such discrepancies in people\u2019s essential medical services. [Interruption] \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000421\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e4b09a29-dfd3-42c0-8585-11463bd6077b\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u002288e7cf19c25c4a2ea5943a76dd98ed3a\u0022\u003EMr SPEAKER\u003C/span\u003E: Order! Members on my left and my right are interjecting on each other. Neither has the floor. If you want to interject on the speaker, that is fine by me.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000422\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002243684a4d-fb40-469a-8e63-cdd1e354b387\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022945d9575b050485892a4b09c40423b9a\u0022\u003EBRENDAN HORAN\u003C/span\u003E: Tony Ryall adopts a see no evil, hear no evil approach. He will not acknowledge that there are problems for many type 1 and insulin-dependent diabetics. As if diabetics did not have enough problems, here is one that our very own Government is creating. There is something wrong, Mr Ryall\u2014listen, acknowledge, and fix it. It is pretty simple, really. I am very worried that someone will have to die before that Minister will listen. Please, Minister Tony Ryall, listen to these Kiwi men, women, and children because they are suffering and they are scared. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000423\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002243684a4d-fb40-469a-8e63-cdd1e354b387\u0022\u003EVote Transport\u2014Tauranga residents should not be carrying the burden of a road built to move large transporters heading to the Port of Tauranga. Residents of Tauranga were justified and correct when they called on their council to make the residential street safe and secure from heavy vehicular movements. The council built Route K as a toll facility. It had little other choice. The traffic modelling at the time supported the road\u2019s construction. It has been only most recently, however, that the transporters have begun to appreciate Route K\u2019s financial value to them for ease of access and the cost-efficiencies that it provides to the Port of Tauranga. There is little doubt that the Port of Tauranga is strategically perhaps the most critical port in the country. It is efficient and can turn ships round and move product faster than its competitors, which struggle to match its efficiencies. As a transport link, the Port of Tauranga will become increasingly important and can only add further demand for capacity on roads already struggling across the city. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000424\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002243684a4d-fb40-469a-8e63-cdd1e354b387\u0022\u003EThe northern arterial route or link planned for over a decade away must be brought forward. Route K is costing local ratepayers over $10,000 a day in interest alone, and there is no doubt that this road is a critical transport link and was needed for the Port of Tauranga. The road was always planned to be adopted as a critical part of the State highway network. It was built to those standards and not as a residential road. It is time that the road is adopted into the State highway network where it belongs rather than be a noose over the ratepayers of Tauranga. However, the issue is no longer in the hands of the local council, but is now being managed by senior New Zealand Transport Agency administrators. So be prepared, Tauranga, for an announcement\u2014to come, I imagine, close to the election\u2014that the road will join the State highway network, and, in the meantime, ratepayers will for the sake of a political ploy continue to face huge interest at a cost of over $10,000 a day that they should never ever have had to pay. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000425\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002243684a4d-fb40-469a-8e63-cdd1e354b387\u0022\u003EThis Budget is impractical. The Prime Minister promised the people of Welcome Bay that he would have a tunnel built under the Hairini interchange and thus reduce travel congestion into the city. This, sadly, will not be the expected outcome for the locals, as a critical congestion point is the single-lane Hairini Bridge at the end of the proposed tunnel development. What the Prime Minister has not told the people of Welcome Bay is that the real reason for the tunnel is not about ease of access to the city for the residents but more about getting the heavy transporters on their way through the interchange quicker and to the port efficiently. People of Tauranga, all that is planned is the tunnel. Nothing else on the city side of the tunnel will happen. Welcome Bay congestion will remain until the bridge and the road leading into the city are widened. Traffic modelling again is being ignored, simply to justify the Prime Minister\u2019s long-overdue promise.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000426\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002243684a4d-fb40-469a-8e63-cdd1e354b387\u0022\u003EFunding for regional safety programmes has been reduced by up to 30 percent, and sustainable transport programmes developed under the prior Government dropped from funding altogether unless they can demonstrate safety factors. This has placed at risk many of the extremely successful programmes developed across our region. Alcohol, speed, and pedestrian safety remain critical injury concerns throughout the Bay of Plenty. These are behavioural issues that can be managed only through robust district education campaigns, and to do that requires funding. An additional and critical issue facing city traffic is the intention of the Ministry of Education to pull out of student transportation to school and to transfer student transport across to the public bus network. This is significant for local bus operators, and the city as it scrambles to provide safe cycling and walking facilities to cope, but there is real concern from the transport engineers about how well the roads will cope with the increasing capacity. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000427\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002243684a4d-fb40-469a-8e63-cdd1e354b387\u0022\u003EThen we turn to the kiwifruit industry. It is a significant part of the economy of the Bay of Plenty\u2014great people, great businesses, great employment, great export earner\u2014and it is critical that the Government support and, where necessary, fund the recovery of the kiwifruit industry. It is one of the most important productive and significant income earners the country has ever seen. That little tasty green goodness is responsible for over 20 percent of the GDP of the Bay of Plenty. Service providers, contractors, and entire communities rely on the success of the industry. Formalisation of the national pest management strategy is the first step, but the Government must not take its eyes off the ball. The industry will continue to need support. I will note that the industry plays an important role in exporting. Zespri last year earned over $1.6 billion and is one of the few Kiwi brands that resonate around the world, encapsulating what we aspire to on the world stage: quality, innovation, and food safety and security. The Government must prioritise its focus on taking the best that kiwifruit has to offer and applying those principles more broadly across the primary sector, so that more industries can escape the commodity trap. As a nation we must address scale, address distance to market, address investment into research and development, and encourage innovation, and the Government must begin to show leadership in this area.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u002223de6bd3-0482-495d-88f4-7cc3f75d8442\u0022 data-id=\u0022a8df719776fb428aa3e5fab5393bbd85\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000428\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002223de6bd3-0482-495d-88f4-7cc3f75d8442\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u0022a8df719776fb428aa3e5fab5393bbd85\u0022\u003EHon NATHAN GUY (Minister for Primary Industries):\u003C/span\u003E It is great to be able to make a contribution in the Budget debate here this afternoon. Bill English stood up here on 16 May this year and delivered his fifth Budget. It was fantastically well received by the electorate at large. Just look at the polling numbers for National over the last couple of weeks since Bill English stood in this House and rolled out his fifth Budget. We need to acknowledge Bill English because he has weathered very tough economic times and steered a fantastic path for this small but powerful country of ours. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000429\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002223de6bd3-0482-495d-88f4-7cc3f75d8442\u0022\u003EWe have come through one of the worst recessions in the history of this country under the leadership of John Key and the Minister of Finance, Bill English. This Budget, which was read out on 16 May, means that we are going to get into surplus next year, 2014-15, which is fantastic when you think about all of the things that this Government has had to weather. We are going to get back into surplus. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000430\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002223de6bd3-0482-495d-88f4-7cc3f75d8442\u0022\u003EWe are forecast to stay on a growth path of around 3 percent. When you compare us with other countries around the world, this is fantastic. Of course, unemployment has dropped. It is the lowest it has been for about the last 3 years at 6.2 percent. When the Opposition members stand up here this afternoon and say that there are no jobs, they are wrong. They are fundamentally wrong, because this Government backs businesses. Businesses are the ones who are going to continue to grow the economy, and the Government backs them to the hilt. What is also interesting is that we are seeing ACC levy reductions. Next year we are going to see a reduction of around $300 million, which is the size of a tax cut. When we came into office, the ACC was an absolute mess. Nick Smith and co. have sorted out the ACC\u2014with the Minister for ACC, Judith Collins\u2014and turned the ACC round so that we can now return those levies to hard-working families and businesses up and down the country. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000431\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002223de6bd3-0482-495d-88f4-7cc3f75d8442\u0022\u003EWe are also putting more money\u2014$5.1 billion over 4 years\u2014into health and education. We heard from Minister Parata this afternoon about her focus and the Government\u2019s focus on education. We have also heard in the last couple of weeks about the real focus that we have on lifting the performance of the health system across New Zealand, and Minister Tony Ryall is doing a fantastic job in that space. There is more money going into science. We are focusing on housing for vulnerable people, as well. This is a fantastic Budget, and we need to acknowledge Bill English and the sterling work that he has done there. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000432\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002223de6bd3-0482-495d-88f4-7cc3f75d8442\u0022\u003EI want to spend some time in my contribution this afternoon talking about the Ministry for Primary Industries. It has the strategy of \u201Cgrow and protect\u201D. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000433\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022106966ef-8cc3-434a-9dbe-dd76b708c2a1\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u002255f7f0c7adeb423c853184a5c5f11f79\u0022\u003EAndrew Little\u003C/span\u003E: Tell us about meat exports to China.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000434\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002223de6bd3-0482-495d-88f4-7cc3f75d8442\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022d56cee2cd9e0491c97590b4f0d3c4925\u0022\u003EHon NATHAN GUY\u003C/span\u003E: What the Opposition members do not want to hear about is the growth part of the primary industries, because they do not care about growth. Andrew Little chips in, over in the back seat in the Opposition. Oppositions members do not want to hear about the prosperity of the Primary Growth Partnership. They do not care about businesses working in partnership with the Government. We have invested in 13 projects in partnership with industry that are going to realise a $7 billion\u2014\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000435\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022106966ef-8cc3-434a-9dbe-dd76b708c2a1\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u00222c2ecb3f7d8848b7b7dd5ce8c05406c3\u0022\u003EAndrew Little\u003C/span\u003E: You left the meat sitting on the wharves.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000436\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002223de6bd3-0482-495d-88f4-7cc3f75d8442\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022884df6d77f7345efa1691172b1ec054c\u0022\u003EHon NATHAN GUY\u003C/span\u003E: \u2014that is a $7 billion prize, Mr Little, by 2025, and that is going to be year on year. The Government cares about businesses and it backs them. The Opposition does not. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000437\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002223de6bd3-0482-495d-88f4-7cc3f75d8442\u0022\u003EJust today I have announced another funding round for the Primary Growth Partnership. And, of course, what we are also going to do is grow the economy with free-trade agreements as well, which are going to be a big part of our exports doubling. Currently, primary industries are worth around $30 billion. We have set a target of $60 billion by 2025. Free-trade agreements are going to be a part of that, as is also the Primary Growth Partnership. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000438\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002223de6bd3-0482-495d-88f4-7cc3f75d8442\u0022\u003EBut, of course, the problem that the Labour Party is going to have, if it is ever lucky enough to get into Government, is that the Greens are against the Trans-Pacific Partnership. Andrew Little nods there. He knows that. He realises that that is a problem, because that is worth about $2 billion a year to us. So here we have the Labour camp, sort of on the fence, unsure whether to support free-trade agreements, and the far left part of a potential Government\u2014heaven forbid if it ever happened in the future\u2014is against the Trans-Pacific Partnership. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000439\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002223de6bd3-0482-495d-88f4-7cc3f75d8442\u0022\u003ESo what I also want to focus on with the primary industries is biosecurity. That is my No.1 priority and it is something that I cannot afford to take my eye off, and neither can my officials. We have a world-class biosecurity system. It is interesting that the Opposition members cannot even read the Budget. They are out there saying there has been a funding cut in biosecurity. If they just looked below the top line in the Budget, they would realise that $5 million in funding was brought forward for the Joint Border Management System in 2011-12 and $1 million for the mergers with the Ministry of Primary Industries. What Opposition members have not realised, of course, is there is no funding cut in biosecurity. Why would I allow that to happen, when it is my No. 1 priority? So the challenge to Opposition members is to make sure they get their facts right. If they are going to stand up in this House or go out and talk to farmers\u2014who do not care and do not listen to them anyway\u2014they should make sure that their facts are right. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000440\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002223de6bd3-0482-495d-88f4-7cc3f75d8442\u0022\u003EOpposition parties should clearly know and understand that this is my No. 1 priority. That is why 30 new front-line biosecurity officers are being recruited now, and 56 have been recruited in the last 6 months. I have such a focus on biosecurity that we are working on Government-industry agreements\u2014and I acknowledge the stakeholders who are working through this\u2014so that we can be ready to respond to incursions and threats in the future. We are working closer than we ever have worked with our Australian counterparts on foot-and-mouth preparedness. Just tonight we have got a couple of officials flying up to the UK to be a part of the simulated exercise happening in the UK called Operation Walnut\u2014a real focus on biosecurity. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000441\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002223de6bd3-0482-495d-88f4-7cc3f75d8442\u0022\u003ECan I also just comment on and mention also meat exports into China. There has been an issue with certification, which the Ministry of Primary Industries will learn from. Unfortunately, it happened. It should never have happened. As the regulator, the ministry issues about 12,000 documents a week. This is bread and butter for the ministry. There will be learnings that will come out of this. We do not want this to happen again. I need to acknowledge that we have reached a solution with the Chinese officials. I need to acknowledge them. I acknowledge also that the meat industry has played a part in this as well, and it has been very supportive in finding the resolution. We are going to host some Chinese officials down here to get a broader certification process under way. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000442\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u00226e73e82c5fff4ddf8aebcc8f513ba378\u0022\u003EHon Member\u003C/span\u003E: Hopeless, hopeless, hopeless. Talk about 101. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000443\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002223de6bd3-0482-495d-88f4-7cc3f75d8442\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u00224ed4752063fe4b5eb79fc6e21aafe583\u0022\u003EHon NATHAN GUY\u003C/span\u003E: Opposition members, instead of harping on, should be supporting this Government. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000444\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002223de6bd3-0482-495d-88f4-7cc3f75d8442\u0022\u003EWhat I also want to focus on in this Budget debate in particular is the $80 million out of $400 million that is going into irrigation. It should be applauded. It should be applauded by Opposition members, but, of course, they are confused. Their spokesperson on agriculture, Damien O\u2019Connor, is unsure whether to support irrigation or not. When Mr O\u2019Connor visited Hawke\u2019s Bay with Shane Jones they both said: \u201COh, it\u2019s a very good case. It\u2019s in an obscure part of New Zealand, but, by and large, it looks pretty good.\u201D Then we had the failed former MP for Labour up there, Stuart Nash, saying there was no way that Labour would support any water storage irrigation projects. So on one hand you have got Labour sort of saying \u201CYes, we support it.\u201D, but on the other hand you have got one of its failed ex - list MPs out there saying \u201CWe don\u2019t support it.\u201D \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000445\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002223de6bd3-0482-495d-88f4-7cc3f75d8442\u0022\u003ESo I am very confused as to whether or not Labour backs rural New Zealand. Here we are, having just come through the worst drought that we have had in 70 years. You would think that Labour would be supporting water storage projects\u2014400,000 hectares of land potentially under irrigation. Labour does not care. Labour does not care about rural communities. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000446\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002223de6bd3-0482-495d-88f4-7cc3f75d8442\u0022\u003EI could run through a list, and I am going to run through a list in the last moment I have got. Labour wants to introduce a capital gains tax. That will go down like a cup of sick in rural communities. It is going to lift income tax for the higher earners as well. Well, that will not go down well. There will be a higher company tax. Labour is against any dairy expansion, with the far left greenies involved. It wants a wider, more expansive emissions trading scheme. It wants to have a limit to water use. It is not going to back the 90-day probation period for new employees. It does not support the roll-out of broadband into rural communities. There is no support for irrigation. It wants to stop projects like Transmission Gully and the Kapiti Expressway. The list goes on. Of course, Labour wants to unwind any Resource Management Act reforms. It is not interested in returning money to hard-working taxpayers in terms of our ACC rebates. It is going to rack up more debt. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000447\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002223de6bd3-0482-495d-88f4-7cc3f75d8442\u0022\u003ERural New Zealand does not believe anything that Labour or the Greens say. That is why we hold all the seats that we do hold. That is why I am hugely passionate about the primary industries. That is why it is a real focus of mine and is the engine room of the New Zealand economy.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u0022106966ef-8cc3-434a-9dbe-dd76b708c2a1\u0022 data-id=\u00222525afdea0c14f49844983d2a886fadf\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000448\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022106966ef-8cc3-434a-9dbe-dd76b708c2a1\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u00222525afdea0c14f49844983d2a886fadf\u0022\u003EANDREW LITTLE (Labour):\u003C/span\u003E Let me quickly acknowledge, Mr Assistant Speaker Robertson, in light of your announcement earlier today\u2014and I know this will not be the time for lengthy acknowledgments\u2014your enormous and huge contribution not only to the House but to its good order. It is an honour to be speaking in your presence and under your chairmanship this afternoon. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000449\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022106966ef-8cc3-434a-9dbe-dd76b708c2a1\u0022\u003EI think the most interesting observation to make about the last speaker, the Hon Nathan Guy, is that for once we have a National MP who understands what a drought is, who understands not only what a drought is but what its impact is on the local region and on the economy. You see, the last lengthy drought we had was in 2007. Every time this Government recounts our economic fortunes going back to around about that time, it never ever talks about the lengthy drought that caused the recession that took place in this country even before the global financial crisis. This is a Government that has a selective memory. It did not understand what was happening then, and, frankly, if you look at this Budget, it barely understands what is happening now. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000450\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022106966ef-8cc3-434a-9dbe-dd76b708c2a1\u0022\u003EWe heard the ridiculous comments about ACC from the last speaker and also from the Minister for ACC earlier this afternoon. It was as if by magic the Government has turned round this great corporation that is so important to the wealth of the nation. It has done nothing of the sort\u2014it has done nothing of the sort. Government members contrived a crisis that never existed, they hiked the levies, they have ripped off every worker and business in this country, and they have now realised that they over-egged the pudding. When they got advice at the end of last year to reduce the levies, they thought: \u201COh, we don\u2019t want to admit we\u2019re wrong. We\u2019ll have to blame the officials, but we\u2019ll do that further down the track. We\u2019ll leave the current levies in place, and we\u2019ll over-levy the nation to the tune of $1 billion to $2 billion a year for another year, while the economy is trying to recover.\u201D That is how short-sighted and, frankly, how shallow they are. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000451\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022106966ef-8cc3-434a-9dbe-dd76b708c2a1\u0022\u003EI want to talk about the area of justice and the justice group of votes. They are very important, and what is happening there is a crying shame. We have seen that the biggest proportion of Vote Justice goes into legal aid. Legal aid is very important. It applies in a number of ways. It applies to those who are impecunious\u2014those who are on low incomes\u2014and those who are facing the full force of the State, through police prosecutions and Crown prosecutions, and they are entitled to assistance to defend themselves, especially when their liberty is at stake. Legal aid plays a very important part. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000452\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022106966ef-8cc3-434a-9dbe-dd76b708c2a1\u0022\u003ELegal aid was cut by $15 million in last year\u2019s Budget. It has been cut by another $12 million a year in this Budget, and the trend is a continuing cut in that area. When we see the figures\u2014the new legal aid regime took effect last year\u2014and when we see what the impact has been, the number of legal aid lawyers has fallen dramatically, by nearly 300 in a year. Those are lawyers who were available to do legal aid work who are no longer doing it\u2014and not just any lawyers, but senior lawyers as well. So bad has it been in a single year that the Government now has had to put together a special programme and a special package to draw back senior lawyers who have since left the system because it has got so hard and, most important to them, it has become so unfair. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000453\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022106966ef-8cc3-434a-9dbe-dd76b708c2a1\u0022\u003EThe number of firms doing legal aid work is falling rapidly, because partners in law firms are now saying: \u201CListen, the time it takes to make the application and to get a fair rate is just too hard for us.\u201D Although this is good for young, developing lawyers\u2014put them on a bit of legal aid work and give them a bit of courtroom experience, under the supervision of senior partners\u2014it has all just become too hard and law firms are rapidly retreating from that type of work, no matter how important it is constitutionally and for our system of justice. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000454\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022106966ef-8cc3-434a-9dbe-dd76b708c2a1\u0022\u003EBut one of the most important areas in which we are yet to see the impact of this, which we will see under this Budget, is the area of family law, because this Government is now putting through its legislation that is about minimising the role of lawyers in this very difficult area of work. It is an area of work where the people who are the users of the justice system in the Family Court\u2014usually separating parents\u2014need not just legal advice, but support as well. This Government now has a programme that is about minimising it and reducing it, and it plans to significantly cut the cost of legal aid in the family law section. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000455\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022106966ef-8cc3-434a-9dbe-dd76b708c2a1\u0022\u003EThe reason it will justify that is to say: \u201CThe warring parents can get on and do it themselves, with a facilitator, and we don\u2019t have to have independent representation of children any more. We\u2019re going to scrap most of that, because the parents who are tied up in the stress, the distress, and the tragedy of the separation\u2014well, they\u2019ll be in a perfectly fit state to represent the best interests of the children.\u201D That is the thinking of this Government. So it will cut legal aid to the parents, and it will cut the access to legal advice on the representation of children. They will no longer have independent advice. Sure, the Government will save money; it will save money in that area, but we know where it is going to be picked up. It will be picked up in a whole heap of other areas: in the criminal justice area, in the health area, and in other areas of Government spending. Of course, on top of all this we have had the mishandling of the legal aid project, which is now under yet another expensive legal appeal. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000456\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022106966ef-8cc3-434a-9dbe-dd76b708c2a1\u0022\u003EThe other area that is very important is the community law centres. That is another area that has been struggling for some time to keep the attention of the Government. The last Minister of Justice, the Hon Simon Power, did a good job of providing ongoing funding to the community law centres, because he recognised the important role they play. This Minister is doing her level best to make it harder and harder for community law centres. So, sure, we have got funding for another year. The Budget says there is funding for a year after that, but it is subject to conditions. The community law centres now have to meet a whole new heap of expectations, guidelines, and rules. They are required to get out of the education mode that is so important to the work they do, particularly with things like youth law and disability law, where the heart of their work is educative work. That will go over time, and they will be left with giving interim advice to the people who walk up to the community law centres. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000457\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022106966ef-8cc3-434a-9dbe-dd76b708c2a1\u0022\u003EThe funding that is in the Budget this year is conditional upon making changes, and the community law centres know that they are now up for a major upheaval, and it will be in the area of consolidations of centres and mergers, and that is going to be very difficult. It will take away the whole notion of community from community law centres if this Government mishandles it, or at least handles it as badly as it has done the legal aid project. Let us not make that mistake again. Let us not let this Government make that mistake again. It would be a travesty if it does. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000458\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022106966ef-8cc3-434a-9dbe-dd76b708c2a1\u0022\u003EI want to talk about victims\u2019 services. We heard the Minister of Justice earlier today and, indeed, yesterday making an announcement about victims\u2019 services. The only thing she talked about was restorative justice. It is the quasi-parsonical aspect of criminal justice. She acted in her quasi-parsonical way to say that the Government has put $4 million into restorative justice. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000459\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022106966ef-8cc3-434a-9dbe-dd76b708c2a1\u0022\u003EBut what about the other aspects of victims\u2019 rights? You see, she announced yesterday that there is another $739,000 extra going into victims\u2019 rights, and you know what? That is money that the Government has already got. It is money it collected from the offender levy. It has collected so much of it and spent so little that it has been able to beef up its total spending this year by $5 million. That is the unspent amount of the offender levy. It was a great idea to collect it, but the Government does not know how to use it. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000460\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022106966ef-8cc3-434a-9dbe-dd76b708c2a1\u0022\u003ESure, there has got to be much better support for victims and for victims\u2019 services, but the Government is playing ducks and drakes, and it is playing with smoke and mirrors, if I can mix my metaphors in that way. There is no extra $739,000, and this Government\u2019s commitment to victims and victims\u2019 rights can be seen in its Victims\u2019 Orders Against Violent Offenders Bill, which is the biggest joke around. It is going to cost victims. It requires the victims of serious crime to step up and take the initiative against the offenders who have caused them considerable harm, humiliation, and injury. They have to pay for it, and the threshold for getting it is so high that very few will actually be ordered. It is a cynical attempt at pushing the criminal justice button out in the community, without making a commitment to do anything at all. If there is one thing this Government should be funding, it is the processes under that bill that we are yet to debate. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000461\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022106966ef-8cc3-434a-9dbe-dd76b708c2a1\u0022\u003EFinally, I want to touch on the Crown Law Office under Vote Attorney-General. We are seeing the vote for Crown law reduce heavily because the Budget for Crown solicitors is being cut massively. Some Crown solicitor offices are suffering cuts of up to 35 percent\u201435 percent. We know what the price of that will be: fewer prosecutions on fewer charges, more criminals getting away with it, and sentencing that will reflect the fewer charges. Actually, it will do no good for criminal justice, and no good for peace and good order in our society. The Budget is a joke.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u0022c83012b4-3939-4753-80fc-1956a3e2bd1e\u0022 data-id=\u0022abab15576e4249399bd073ea72e051af\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000462\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022c83012b4-3939-4753-80fc-1956a3e2bd1e\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u0022abab15576e4249399bd073ea72e051af\u0022\u003EHon MICHAEL WOODHOUSE (Minister of Immigration):\u003C/span\u003E I would be very keen to talk about the Budget initiatives as they relate to my portfolios of immigration, veterans\u2019 affairs, and associate transport. But before I do, it is interesting to reflect, 3 weeks since the Budget was read, on the reactions of some, and, in particular, of our friends on the other side. Mr Parker\u2014\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000463\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022e1dc47e745364936ab874d129c6b85eb\u0022\u003EHon Members\u003C/span\u003E: Our friends?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000464\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022c83012b4-3939-4753-80fc-1956a3e2bd1e\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022f7c2f701ec81403384bc06d6916753fa\u0022\u003EHon MICHAEL WOODHOUSE\u003C/span\u003E: Yes, of course. Well, our friendlies, then\u2014I like to be friendly. According to Mr Parker, Labour believes the Government should return to surplus and, indeed, said: \u201CWe would have in 2014-15.\u201D That was said under a headline, among others, in an article by Audrey Young, who wrote: \u201CThe one thing alternative finance minister, Labour\u2019s David Parker, won\u2019t be criticising \u2026 is the Government\u2019s confirmation that it is on track to return to surplus in 2014-15.\u201D I contrast that with the comments that Mr Parker was making only a year ago on Budget 2012, when he said not only that the Government\u2019s path to surplus in 2014-15 when it was first announced was barely achievable but that the Government was placing an overemphasis on a return to surplus ahead of the other priorities. How he can say that then, and then turn round a year later and say: \u201CWell, of course they\u2019re going to be back in surplus in 2014-15, and so would we have.\u201D? \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000465\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022c83012b4-3939-4753-80fc-1956a3e2bd1e\u0022\u003EWell, what I do not understand\u2014and Labour members can explain it for me if they can\u2014is how they can reconcile that in light of the legacy of 10 years of deficits and the very difficult decisions that this Government has had to take, decisions that they would not have the wherewithal or the attitude to make, and then add on top of that all the unfunded spending promises that we have had since the 2011 election. I do not have time to go through all of them, but there is Sue Moroney\u2019s extra paid parental leave and Clare Curran is wanting to resurrect Television New Zealand and subsidise $160 million for wagons to be made in New Zealand. I think Mr Little has just mentioned reversing the legal aid changes. Then there is the in-work tax credit. I am not quite sure where Labour is on the in-work tax credit. I think Labour campaigned on it, then went quiet on it, and who knows where that will be if Labour has to coalesce with the Greens. There is removing the changes to student loans and allowances\u2014the list goes on. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000466\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022c83012b4-3939-4753-80fc-1956a3e2bd1e\u0022\u003ESo here is what I do not understand: if returning to surplus is so easy, how does Labour reconcile the fact that it was not prepared to make any of the hard decisions that this Government has had to make with the fact that it has opposed every single one of those decisions in every single Budget and every single bill? Add a whole pile\u2014billions\u2014for the 100,000 houses Labour was going to build, remember? Who knows how that is going to be paid for. The mixed-ownership model would not exist, and so we would not have all those really good things we are going to fund out of the Future Investment Fund, like 21st century schools. What happens to 21st century schools? Either we go deeper into debt for them or we do not get 21st century schools. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000467\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022eb36f5176a414008857a1b14452652b8\u0022\u003EHon Member\u003C/span\u003E: Borrow and hope.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000468\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022c83012b4-3939-4753-80fc-1956a3e2bd1e\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u002270784ee870ef4a7aac423759b7c69b0f\u0022\u003EHon MICHAEL WOODHOUSE\u003C/span\u003E: No idea what that choice is going to be, but that is right\u2014tax and spend, borrow and hope. One thing we can rely on about Labour is that it does not change. Tax and spend, borrow and hope. That is before we even get to the Greens, whom they would need to rely on for confidence and supply. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000469\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022c83012b4-3939-4753-80fc-1956a3e2bd1e\u0022\u003EThe single electricity market\u2014well, Parker\u2019s comments were very interesting on the single electricity market.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000470\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002223de6bd3-0482-495d-88f4-7cc3f75d8442\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022e1c9666addaa49e5bafdf70fb091a655\u0022\u003EHon Nathan Guy\u003C/span\u003E: What did he say?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000471\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022c83012b4-3939-4753-80fc-1956a3e2bd1e\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u00224577a4e4c4a34e2585b02671086b7ccc\u0022\u003EHon MICHAEL WOODHOUSE\u003C/span\u003E: He told Cabinet, actually, when he was near it, that having a single buyer would result in higher capital and operating costs, it would be risky and uncertain, it would put investment proposals on hold, and it would be poor at sustaining cost pressure on operating costs.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000472\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002298dbeffa-e059-49d5-8bbf-579cbaead9a3\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u00221795fd731dca4991a49c6f942f078c25\u0022\u003EScott Simpson\u003C/span\u003E: Who said that?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000473\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022c83012b4-3939-4753-80fc-1956a3e2bd1e\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022db8215b94cb94688b574e5019de408c5\u0022\u003EHon MICHAEL WOODHOUSE\u003C/span\u003E: Mr Parker said that\u2014that is a very good question. But when challenged on the inconsistency of the announcement in April against his publicly made statements as Minister for Energy and Resources in 2006, he said this: \u201CWell, things have changed.\u201D Well, I know what has changed. David Parker is no longer a Minister and Labour is no longer in Government. Talk is cheap. Following that up with action is much, much harder. So it is great to be a lion in Opposition; we will see what happens when push comes to shove. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000474\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022c83012b4-3939-4753-80fc-1956a3e2bd1e\u0022\u003EI am the Minister of Immigration. It has been my great privilege to hold that portfolio over the last 5 months, having taken over\u2014and it was left in very good shape, I have to say, by the Hon Nathan Guy\u2014during the last reshuffle. Immigration New Zealand is in much, much better shape than it was in in 2008, when we took office. If there is a better example of a department in disarray under a Government asleep at the wheel in 2008, I cannot think of one. The Pacific division was in complete disarray, there was inconsistent decision-making against the rules that had been put in place, and it was slow and lacking in timeliness. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000475\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022c83012b4-3939-4753-80fc-1956a3e2bd1e\u0022\u003EI have been very, very impressed with the staff and their effort to turn round that organisation in very difficult circumstances. The performance improvement measures in the Budget are plain to see. Customer satisfaction with the overall quality of the service of Immigration New Zealand has gone up, from 73 percent in 2010 to 85 percent in March, and it is still climbing. The quality of the decision making, the accuracy of the decision making, in just 2 years has gone from 77 percent to 96 percent. That is just about as good as you get. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000476\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022c83012b4-3939-4753-80fc-1956a3e2bd1e\u0022\u003EOf course, the funding lines, as for many of the departments in this Budget, are flat and slightly dropping. We have asked our public servants to do more with the same\u2014perhaps a drop in real terms. That is a challenge, but one way that Immigration New Zealand is meeting that challenge is through changing business process, changing technologies, and changing branch structures away from a traditional branch structure, which is perhaps less nimble in responding to changes in demand for visa applications, to an online service through the global management system that will be coming online nearer the end of the year. It is a very large IT project that will revolutionise the way people interact with Immigration New Zealand. There will be changes to visa acceptance centres and a much more nimble framework within which to be able to make those decisions. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000477\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022c83012b4-3939-4753-80fc-1956a3e2bd1e\u0022\u003EWe want our immigration staff to do three things: be fair, be consistent, and be timely. I have been very, very impressed with their attitude towards that change. I am very confident that the online visa processing\u2014which is, of course, a Better Public Services target that Chris Tremain as Minister of Internal Affairs has\u2014will have 70 percent of transactions with the Government online by 2017. Immigration\u2019s target is 80 percent, and I am confident that by 2017 we will be able to achieve that target and help Mr Tremain look as good as I know he is in that portfolio. So I wish the Immigration staff and team all the best in that endeavour. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000478\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022c83012b4-3939-4753-80fc-1956a3e2bd1e\u0022\u003EThe portfolio of veterans\u2019 affairs is also a considerable privilege to hold\u2014a portfolio where the Government has, I think, provided very strong benefits to our war heroes, our veterans. It is interesting to reflect on the fact that in the last 10 years, with a diminishing number of veterans\u2014and it is true that our World War II veterans are reducing in number as they get older\u2014we have been in a number of recognised emergencies, not the least of which are Afghanistan, East Timor, the Solomon Islands, and so on. So we are creating a new raft of veterans who have served with distinction in those theatres. As a consequence, the War Pensions Act, which is now 58 years old, is probably not as fit for purpose as it needs to be. Cabinet has approved the changes that will be made, and I am looking forward to introducing legislation into the House later this year to give effect to those changes, to make sure that we continue to serve our veteran communities in the way that we have in the past. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000479\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022c83012b4-3939-4753-80fc-1956a3e2bd1e\u0022\u003EOf course, we are coming up to a significant period of commemoration. From next year we recognise two significant milestones. There is the 70th anniversary of two important World War II theatres: the Battle of Monte Cassino, at which, of course, New Zealand forces served with distinction, and D-Day. But, of course, 2014 also marks the centenary of the start of World War I and, as Minister of Veterans\u2019 Affairs in New Zealand, I am responsible for the commemorations that will be taking place at Gallipoli in 2015. I am pleased to report that progress is well under way on that. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000480\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022c83012b4-3939-4753-80fc-1956a3e2bd1e\u0022\u003EI want to finish by just touching on some of my responsibilities as Associate Minister of Transport\u2014in particular, the delegation for road safety. I want to take the opportunity to congratulate the people of New Zealand and the police who patrol our roads on the fantastic outcome last Queen\u2019s Birthday weekend\u2014last week. For the first time since records began, no one died on our roads this Queen\u2019s Birthday weekend. That was despite the fact that the weather was very challenging. We had high winds in the South Island and torrential rain in the North Island, yet we were still able to achieve a zero death toll. It continues a trend starting probably 4\u00BD years ago, I think it would be fair to say, that the rate of death and injury on our roads has been reducing. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000481\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022c83012b4-3939-4753-80fc-1956a3e2bd1e\u0022\u003EThe Government is committed to the Safer Journeys Action Plan 2013-2015. There is a new 2-year plan under way. The low-hanging fruit has, I think, been picked and it is a little harder now, and it will probably take longer to change some of the behaviours and the engineering and to increase the safety of the vehicles on our roads. But I am very confident that we will continue the excellent work that has begun, and I look forward to, probably, a road toll that might be a record this year\u2014I do not want to tempt fate by suggesting that we will get there. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000482\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022c83012b4-3939-4753-80fc-1956a3e2bd1e\u0022\u003EAll of those things, I think, are part of a Budget that is solid. It is sound. It has been well received by the IMF, the World Bank, the OECD, and many other commentators, and I commend it.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u002258f935f1-6646-40ab-9d99-17029396850c\u0022 data-id=\u002276d232687cb247b1a2f9cf136a9eb923\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000483\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002258f935f1-6646-40ab-9d99-17029396850c\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u002276d232687cb247b1a2f9cf136a9eb923\u0022\u003EJULIE ANNE GENTER (Green):\u003C/span\u003E The National Government is missing a huge opportunity to invest in smarter, greener infrastructure. Unfortunately, the result is going to be that households and businesses spend ever more on transport, even as the Government has to raise the petrol tax and has to raise the road-user charges to pay for its political priority projects, which will not actually do any good for the New Zealand economy.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000484\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002258f935f1-6646-40ab-9d99-17029396850c\u0022\u003EThe previous speaker, the Associate Minister of Transport, Michael Woodhouse, mentioned that the accident rate on our roads has been reducing. It is not that surprising. What is good is that we have seen an increasing safety record on our roads for quite a long time now. I think it has been declining very steadily for the past 20 years.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000485\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002258f935f1-6646-40ab-9d99-17029396850c\u0022\u003EBut what is actually happening here is that New Zealanders are driving less. That results in fewer accidents as well. We have got the statistics right here, which show that vehicle ownership is starting to decline per capita, and vehicle kilometres travelled per capita are declining. This is part of a worldwide trend that has been documented in the United States, in Australia, and in Europe. In pretty much every rich country we have reached peak vehicle use, and now people are starting to look for alternatives. Unfortunately, the Government is not investing in those alternatives.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000486\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002258f935f1-6646-40ab-9d99-17029396850c\u0022\u003EWe have this opportunity to get a win-win. We have this opportunity to invest in better transport choices, which means buses and trains, safe walking and cycling, and rail freight and coastal shipping. By investing in all of those modes we reduce the cost of congestion on our roads, we reduce the cost of ongoing road maintenance, and we reduce the number of accidents on the roads as well.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000487\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002258f935f1-6646-40ab-9d99-17029396850c\u0022\u003EBecause I know that members in this House say a lot of things that often are not correct, in the case of Government members, I think it is important to back up what I am saying with some facts and with some graphs. I have some graphs here showing exactly what the National Government\u2019s transport spending is going to be over the next 3 years. For every single category, whether it is road safety, new public transport infrastructure, new walking and cycling infrastructure, public transport services, local roads, local road maintenance, or even maintenance and renewal of State highways, all of those amounts are very, very small. But when you come to the new State highway category, look, there is many, many times more spending on that than on any other part of our transport sector. That is a very unbalanced approach to transport. It does not take into account the changing trends in how people want and need to get around.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000488\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002258f935f1-6646-40ab-9d99-17029396850c\u0022\u003EIt gets worse. If you look at the Government Policy Statement on Land Transport Funding, which goes out 10 years, you actually see this number for new State highways increasing, increasing, increasing. In 2021, when fewer people per capita are going to be driving, the Government is going to be spending a record amount on new State highways, and no more on public transport infrastructure, no more on walking and cycling, no more even on road maintenance. I know that you, Mr Deputy Speaker, are well aware of the challenges to local roads in some of our regions in New Zealand, where the amount of money for local roads has had to be reduced to pay for the National Government\u2019s priorities. Unfortunately, those priorities just do not stack up economically.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000489\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002258f935f1-6646-40ab-9d99-17029396850c\u0022\u003EI personally am very, very concerned because if we look at the National Infrastructure Plan, 90 percent of the money in the National Infrastructure Plan\u2014the part that was not to the ultra-fast broadband\u2014is going on a few of these State highways that were picked for electoral reasons by the National Government. When we look at the New Zealand Transport Agency\u2019s own evaluation of the economic benefits of some of these projects, it shows that they are simply not going to be good for the economy. They have a low economic efficiency. The K\u0101piti Expressway\u2019s is 0.2. That means that for every $1 we spend, we lose 80c. We do not even break even on this project. We are just spending money on a road for the sake of it. Transmission Gully is 0.3 to 0.5. The P\u016Bhoi to Wellsford motorway is probably, at best, 0.8. These are multibillion-dollar projects that will benefit only 4 percent or less of all of the vehicle trips in New Zealand. It does not make sense to spend 75 percent of your money on new transport infrastructure for 4 percent of the vehicle trips.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000490\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002258f935f1-6646-40ab-9d99-17029396850c\u0022\u003EThe National Government is not spending money on roads, and it is not spending money on productive infrastructure. It has removed all of the other funding from every other category that would give New Zealanders real choices about how to get around and reduce congestion, and be good for our exporters who are looking for rail freight options. Instead of doing that, it is sticking with its promise, the promise it made in Opposition before it looked at the numbers, and it is sticking with it for the next few years. For the next 10 years, unless we have a change in Government, New Zealand, we are not going to have real transport choices. We are not going to reduce congestion in Auckland.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000491\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002258f935f1-6646-40ab-9d99-17029396850c\u0022\u003EJust to put it in perspective I made a pie chart, because it really does show exactly how unbalanced\u2014\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000492\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022badb0a39-849c-462a-b32f-77fc017c9fc2\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022ba640e67773f4928a1754e65543852ac\u0022\u003EHon Simon Bridges\u003C/span\u003E: What sort of pie is that? It\u2019s a blueberry pie.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000493\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002258f935f1-6646-40ab-9d99-17029396850c\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u002283aa9a8a51fa4a318c71c88c2ca25721\u0022\u003EJULIE ANNE GENTER\u003C/span\u003E: For the benefit of the Minister of Energy and Resources, I am going to explain a pie chart to him. The largest share of new money for transport infrastructure is going on a few new motorways. That does nothing to give Kiwi households and businesses an opportunity to reduce transport costs.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000494\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002258f935f1-6646-40ab-9d99-17029396850c\u0022\u003EAlso for the benefit of the National members who do not really grasp economics very well, I would like to talk about transport costs. Central government spends about $3 billion a year on transport infrastructure. All of that money, for the most part, comes from road-user charges and petrol taxes, which it has just put up so it can pay for its transport priorities. About $1 billion to $1.5 billion is spent on transport by local councils. That, of course, comes from New Zealand households\u2019 rates.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000495\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002258f935f1-6646-40ab-9d99-17029396850c\u0022\u003ESo you have got local and central governments spending $4 billion to $4.5 billion on transport. The vast majority of that is going on roads, and, of course, because of central government\u2019s fixation with a few very low-value highways, most of it is going on just a few motorways that are going to cater for about 4 percent of the vehicle trips. But New Zealand households and businesses are spending at least three times that much. Yes, that is right. They are spending over $12 billion a year on vehicles and fuel to run them. That is a direct cost to our economy because it is all imported. It is all contributing to our current account deficit, and it is the third-largest item of expenditure for your average household. Your average household is spending money on its house, on food, and then on transport.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000496\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002258f935f1-6646-40ab-9d99-17029396850c\u0022\u003EIf we were able to do the same amount of activity, if we were able to get to school, to get to work, and to trade our goods and reduce some of that money that we are spending on petrol, on imported oil, and on vehicles, that would be a direct gain to the economy. That is the smart green opportunity that the Green Party supports, and that is actually mainstream in most countries around the world. If only National members understood, if only they had actually travelled and lived overseas. Obviously Minister Steven Joyce and Minister Brownlee, from small towns like\u2014[Interruption] They just do not understand; they just do not get it.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000497\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002258f935f1-6646-40ab-9d99-17029396850c\u0022\u003EThat is the only conclusion I can come to, because Aucklanders would like to have the opportunity to have the city rail link. Whether or not they take the train, Aucklanders know that they will benefit from having a world-class public transport system just like every other big city in the world. The city rail link would cost $2.4 billion\u2014probably even less. The city rail link would cost $2 billion but it would revolutionise Auckland\u2019s train system. That small piece of infrastructure is actually going to more than double the capacity of our existing rail network, and that makes sense.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000498\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002258f935f1-6646-40ab-9d99-17029396850c\u0022\u003EIt makes sense to use our existing infrastructure in a more intelligent way, rather than just throw money at some motorways out in the provinces that only a small number of vehicles are going to be using. If I could just sum up by saying that the Green Party is well aware of the economic opportunities we have to use our existing infrastructure in a smarter way, and it is actually going to cost less.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000499\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002258f935f1-6646-40ab-9d99-17029396850c\u0022\u003EI have heard Government members today mention that somehow they are getting to surplus. One of things they are not counting in their surplus is the fact that they are tying us into a 25-year loan for Transmission Gully. It is a private loan, so it is going to cost us even more than if they just went directly and borrowed the money through the Government. By doing Transmission Gully\u2014a $1 billion project that will deliver maybe $300 million to $500 million in benefits, so it is a real money loser\u2014they are going to the private sector for finance. That means that the overseas banks that finance it will have future New Zealanders, 25 years from now, paying back, and the banks will be getting a rate of return of about 12 percent to 15 percent for a project that will carry less than 1 percent of all the vehicle trips in New Zealand.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000500\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002258f935f1-6646-40ab-9d99-17029396850c\u0022\u003EThat is the choice. You could pay for a private loan overseas for a project that is not going to make much of a difference to reducing transport costs or reducing congestion, or you could have the city rail link. Thank you.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u0022695678cf-542a-4616-9e0a-86990caec192\u0022 data-id=\u0022240e34baee9848129070ba89a71d5578\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000501\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022695678cf-542a-4616-9e0a-86990caec192\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u0022240e34baee9848129070ba89a71d5578\u0022\u003EALFRED NGARO (National):\u003C/span\u003E I rise to take a call on this Appropriation (2013/14 Estimates) Bill. I just want to declare that the Budget of 2013 delivers over $480 million for our Pasifika families and communities. What I am quite proud of is that our Pasifika communities know that when the going gets tough, the tough get going. They work harder for themselves and for their communities. Our story is not just a migration story; it is actually now a Kiwi story. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000502\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022695678cf-542a-4616-9e0a-86990caec192\u0022\u003EWhat I am actually really proud about\u2014and we talk about the fact that the landscape in our communities is changing\u2014is that our Pasifika communities are now seeing that the National Government is a Government of choice. Here are the simple facts. When we look at the number of Pasifika MPs who are in Parliament there are five: two for Labour, one for New Zealand First\u2014Mrs Asenati Lole-Taylor over there\u2014and two for National. So the landscape is changing. I want to acknowledge Mr Su\u2019a William Sio when he said that the Government needs to be careful about the decisions that it makes that will impact the choices for the Pasifika community. He went on record last year and said that on Radio 531 PI, and he declared that some of those choices may impact up to 30 percent of Pasifika votes. Why? Because the Pasifika community is saying that, actually, this National Government is now a National Government of choice for our Pasifika communities.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000503\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022695678cf-542a-4616-9e0a-86990caec192\u0022\u003E I want to quote this. I was at the launch of the Salvation Army\u2019s report More Than Churches, Rugby and Festivals. What I agree with in parts of this report\u2014and I know that Mr Sio was there. Unfortunately, he left a little bit earlier, so he could not actually speak, but I got to speak on this report. What it actually says is this. It talks about the factors and that it is time for these issues to \u201Cserve as a challenge to our national and local leaders, and to the Pasifika community\u201D. What it is actually saying is that it is time for us not to blame the Government but to actually take some responsibility. It is a shared responsibility that we need to take. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000504\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022695678cf-542a-4616-9e0a-86990caec192\u0022\u003EThat is what this Government is doing\u2014$480 million that is benefiting our Pasifika communities. Sir \u201CPapa\u201D Tom Davis said this: \u201CWhatever walk of life you choose, pursuing your dreams will bring personal satisfaction that you are making the world a better place. Your conclusions may be challenged along the way, therefore it is important that you do all you can to ensure that the decisions that you make are the right ones.\u201D I want to frame this. My Budget speech for our Pasifika community is simply this: our Pasifika community is not a problem to be fixed in society. That is not what this Budget says. This Budget says that our Pasifika community is in pursuit of a potential to be realised and a dream to be fulfilled. This is the Government of aspiration, and these are the things that we are doing. This 2013 Budget supports these aspirations through improving access to quality education and training; provision of more choices in health, housing, and social service; affordable insulated housing; and jobs that provide them with good incomes and propel them along their chosen career pathways\u2014$480 million towards our Pasifika community. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000505\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022695678cf-542a-4616-9e0a-86990caec192\u0022\u003EI want to focus my speech on five key areas: housing, social development, welfare reform, health, and education. Let us take housing. It is the topical issue of the moment. The housing budget in 2013 delivers $100 million over 3 years into the Warm Up New Zealand: Healthy Homes programme. This will target low-income households for home insulation, particularly those families with children and with high health needs. It is expected to insulate around not 10,000, not 20,000, not 30,000, not even 40,000, but 46,000 homes\u201446,000 homes insulated. The Warm Up New Zealand: Healthy Homes programme will provide real health benefits to our Pasifika communities. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000506\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022695678cf-542a-4616-9e0a-86990caec192\u0022\u003ELet us take education. It is an important topic. In the education budget 2013 we are investing $173 million in early childhood education, of which $41.3 million will support participation, especially for vulnerable children\u201498 percent early childhood education participation by 2016. Last Friday\u2014and I am sad that the member for M\u0101ngere has gone\u2014we were in M\u0101ngere with the Prime Minister, and we went out to one of the early childhood education centres, the Nukutukulea language nest, just off Kirkbride Road. There we were. In 1988 those people had formed this trust. They had seen the need for early childhood education and the language coming together. By 1998 they had formed their first early childhood education centre. I can say this: by 2008 they had had a grant of $1.1 million, which allowed them to have a purpose-built early childhood education facility. Marina Vaha is working there. Not only does it have 50 children there plus a waiting list but its Education Review Office report has shown that it has excelled in all areas\u2014language, literacy, numeracy\u2014using the Te Wh\u0101riki programme. This is a great programme. They were so excited to have the Prime Minister present there. This was again affirming the results that they had had that the leader of this country was present there. They began to tell him about all the wonderful things they are doing, such as home-based schools programmes. The community was out there at large, in South Auckland, in M\u0101ngere, in the Pasifika community. The Prime Minister was mobbed by the little kids. But, most important, does it make the boat go faster? Is education improved for our Pasifika children? Yes, it is\u2014absolutely. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000507\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022695678cf-542a-4616-9e0a-86990caec192\u0022\u003EWe know also that for M\u0101ori and Pasific trade training there is an extra $43 million, and another $5.9 million will be targeted for new mentoring programmes to help vulnerable students achieve National Certificate of Educational Achievement level 2. Again, I am sorry that the member for M\u0101ngere across the way has left, because I was with him at the Manukau Institute of Technology graduation service\u2014\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000508\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00221dbd2811-8e58-4ffb-848d-31c0eaa9690a\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022b85ee583d3444583a1a838e974255999\u0022\u003EChris Hipkins\u003C/span\u003E: Point of order.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000509\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022f4112fc5-c53f-4aa9-bf6d-5a05ce6252cf\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022b0eea3ff0c714ef4aebc0a5570326eb3\u0022\u003EMr DEPUTY SPEAKER\u003C/span\u003E: The member does not need to raise a point of order. A member cannot refer to the absence of another member from the Chamber. I know that it was not intentional, but it was sloppy\u2014it was sloppy. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000510\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022695678cf-542a-4616-9e0a-86990caec192\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u002222fd83a834084d1fb45ea78fc9cc35f5\u0022\u003EALFRED NGARO\u003C/span\u003E: Thank you, Mr Deputy Speaker. I know that that was not intentional. I just want to acknowledge my fellow colleague. I was at the graduation service and I know that Le\u2019aufa\u2019amulia Asenati Lole-Taylor was there too. Three hundred Pasifika students\u2014300 Pasifika students\u2014with everything from diplomas to degrees to Master\u2019s degrees were celebrating their success in education. They got up. They were proud. They were also telling the rest of the community that through education, through the work that we are doing, through the scholarships and the funds that we are providing, they were proud to receive their awards for the hard work that they had achieved\u2014300 students. But we do not hear the other side talking about that. Why? I will tell you this: at that graduation, one of the leaders of the community said that it is about time we start talking about the successes for our community and for our people, rather than the other people talking about all the things that go wrong. Why? Like I said, our Pasifika community is not a problem to be fixed but a potential to be realised. We realise that. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000511\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022695678cf-542a-4616-9e0a-86990caec192\u0022\u003EHere is another issue. Last Friday we went out into the M\u0101ngere community again. We went to STRIVE Community Trust at the Ng\u0101 Tapuwae Community Centre, which has youth programmes for mainly Pasifika students. What did the people there do? They welcomed the Prime Minister into that place. Sharon Wilson-Davis was there and Bill Peace was there and they told the Prime Minister that they have a programme called the Key programme. The Prime Minister stopped for a moment. They said that the reason they have called the programme the Key programme is that it represents him, the successes that he has made, and the aspirations that he has given to them. That programme has had success for the youth and young people of our community. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000512\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022695678cf-542a-4616-9e0a-86990caec192\u0022\u003EI could go on and on. I will not. It is a great Budget. It is a great Budget that is surely benefiting our Pasifika community. I commend this Budget to the House. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u00220e7e8da2-a6a1-41bb-aeb0-a49be255a293\u0022 data-id=\u0022e2566d2b1dbe427d9915fcc6cc3516e8\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000513\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00220e7e8da2-a6a1-41bb-aeb0-a49be255a293\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u0022e2566d2b1dbe427d9915fcc6cc3516e8\u0022\u003EHon NANAIA MAHUTA (Labour\u2014Hauraki-Waikato):\u003C/span\u003E I am pleased to be able to offer some thoughts on the Budget. If the rhetoric matched the reality, then why is it that during the period of the National Government 2008-12 average real incomes for Pacific Islanders rose by only $2, while for the rest of New Zealand it was an average of $54. Why? Because the personal taxation threshold that was introduced by National benefits only the high-income earners. Most Pacific Islanders, like many M\u0101ori, are not in the high-income bracket. If the rhetoric matched the reality, then there would be some very serious responses to M\u0101ori and Pacific householders who are saying: \u201CWhat has this Budget really done for me?\u201D. So how does the Government measure up against the household test of M\u0101ori and Pacific wh\u0101nau?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000514\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002293e842da-b06b-4f08-88ce-cb568739e1b1\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u00227a1da10b8af14805b63eed1fb20a5191\u0022\u003ELe\u2019aufa\u2019amulia Asenati Lole-Taylor\u003C/span\u003E: Very badly.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000515\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00220e7e8da2-a6a1-41bb-aeb0-a49be255a293\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u002260d4b09a00fd4487ac174feff68cf9f1\u0022\u003EHon NANAIA MAHUTA\u003C/span\u003E: I would tend to agree\u2014very badly. One question that would be asked is: \u201CDoes it enable more money to come into my household?\u201D. Well, simply, no. The personal taxation threshold that National set actually dropped the amount of tax for high-income earners, while the burden was being borne by those who earn in the middle to lower income brackets. They did not see a real benefit from that. In my electorate 75 percent earn on average $40,000 or less. They do not see any real benefit in their pockets when they come home, week after week, with their wage packet. So once power goes out, once rent goes out, once food goes out, and once petrol goes out to get people to work, there is very little left in the pockets of hard-working, modest M\u0101ori and, I would say, Pacific families to be able to have a little bit left over. Although I acknowledge that good things are happening in M\u0101ori and Pacific communities that are fighting against the odds, it is not widespread enough and it should be. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000516\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00220e7e8da2-a6a1-41bb-aeb0-a49be255a293\u0022\u003EIn fact, what M\u0101ori and Pacific communities show, by and large, in the tough times is that the spirit of community, the spirit of cooperation, becomes a critical factor to success and innovation, and provides an opportunity to ensure that they are buffered against the ebbs and flows of what happens in the tough times. We have been through some very tough times under this particular Government. Many households, certainly in my electorate, in the M\u0101ori community, comprise two adults with two incomes made up from four jobs\u2014that is, two adults and two incomes made up from four jobs, but it is the equivalent, really, of a very modest household earning component. That cannot be right. People are breaking their backs, working two and sometimes three jobs to bring in the most modest of incomes. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000517\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00220e7e8da2-a6a1-41bb-aeb0-a49be255a293\u0022\u003EThis is not a Budget for the low-income and the modest-income workers, for the hard-working Kiwis, and it is certainly not for M\u0101ori and Pacific workers. This is a Budget that does deals for mates. Let us look at it again. The cost of living challenges for many wh\u0101nau will not be alleviated by this Budget. As I said, power prices are going up. Old people on fixed incomes dread wintertime. They choose which lights they turn on at night. They choose whether or not to have a heater on to heat the whole house, or just to heat one little room. It is difficult. Although I acknowledge from the other side that money has been set aside for warm homes, let me say this. Many M\u0101ori and Pacific families are renting private rentals. I have had the briefings in my own electorate from the people who actually do the insulation schemes, and they cannot encourage enough private homeowners who are renting those homes out to take up this subsidy. Why? It is a measly $2,300-odd of an amount that they pay, on top of the subsidy they get. They want more money from their tenants, and it is such a silly justification. But this is some of the reality that many of those renters are facing when they hear the rhetoric about more money being put aside for warm homes, yet those landlords are not taking up the subsidies, because they have to fork out a little bit more money to be able to insulate those homes so that kids can feel warm at night, so that those kids do get the colds that so many of them do, especially from living in damp, older homes. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000518\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00220e7e8da2-a6a1-41bb-aeb0-a49be255a293\u0022\u003EI do not think the regional petrol tax is a benefit to a lot of people who are already forking out quite a bit to get to and from work. In fact, if more money had been put into public transport, that would have probably helped a far wider range of lower-income people to get around cities like Auckland. Instead, no. We see the petrol tax going up. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000519\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00220e7e8da2-a6a1-41bb-aeb0-a49be255a293\u0022\u003EThe other measure of a household, about whether or not this Budget is really meeting the standard of proof test, is this simple question: am I secure in my job? Well I can say this. Out in the provinces probably more jobs have been lost than ever before under the term of this Government, and that is a sad reality. The sad reality is that in many provincial towns, people lament the loss of 10 or 20 jobs. As small as that number may seem to the House, that is 10 or 20 incomes into that little town. In a town like mine, Huntly, where we survive on the back of the coalmines, losing 67 jobs under the recent restructuring of Solid Energy was a huge blow to the community. We lamented that, because we knew that the median age of the people who were losing their jobs was too old for them to travel to Australia and work in the mines over there. So they did have to reskill. They did have to try to look for other jobs in our own communities, and sadly many of them could not be placed. But that is the reality of the provinces. The simple measure for a lot of households, in terms of this Budget, is knowing that there is job growth happening. Simply, under this Government, it is not happening fast enough. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000520\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00220e7e8da2-a6a1-41bb-aeb0-a49be255a293\u0022\u003EThe provinces tell a very different story. They tell a story where they want some hope, where they want some opportunity to be able to do things, work differently, have regional growth commitments and investment opportunities, so that local people can be employed in their own communities. No, that is not the case. They do have to travel to Australia. Under this Government we have seen more people going over to Australia than ever before. Why? Because it is easier to be a fly-in, fly-out worker\u2014go over there for 6 weeks, then come back to your wh\u0101nau for 2 weeks\u2014than find a job that pays well over here. That is a sad indictment on where New Zealand\u2019s priorities are under the National Government. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000521\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00220e7e8da2-a6a1-41bb-aeb0-a49be255a293\u0022\u003EBut it would not be that case under a Labour-led Government, because we recognise the importance of the regions and of the provinces. We recognise the importance of people being able to work in their own communities. We recognise the importance of ensuring that central government, local government, and business collaborations are absolutely vital to the future of our country. And we recognise that, at the end of the day, New Zealand is a great place to live and we have to have Kiwi jobs here for our own people so that they do not see Australia as the land of opportunity. We have to look back here. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000522\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00220e7e8da2-a6a1-41bb-aeb0-a49be255a293\u0022\u003EThis Budget from the viewpoint of education cannot be a success. If we look at the huge challenge to improve M\u0101ori and Pacific education, the stellar policy that is being held up is charter schools. Well, it simply will not fix a lot of the issues out there, yet it has been paraded as doing just that. What charter schools will do is siphon off public money into private companies for a profit with little or no public accountability for how they are delivering education to those students, to those parents, and to those communities. How can that be good? \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000523\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00220e7e8da2-a6a1-41bb-aeb0-a49be255a293\u0022\u003EI do want to recognise that there are some small gains. M\u0101ori trade training has always, always been an opportunity to invest in the space of skills and it has shown over time that it can be a very positive investment. But where the Government\u2019s investment falls short\u2014in all the areas that the industry training organisations will feed back to you\u2014is that if you do not get the pastoral care right, or if people are not work ready, you can pump a whole lot of money into M\u0101ori trade training, but they may not stick the distance, because there is a lot more going on for young people. I am not putting this challenge on the Government alone, but it is a challenge that should be recognised if you want M\u0101ori trade training to be successful and to ensure that more M\u0101ori are going to lift their skills to be able to take up opportunity. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000524\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00220e7e8da2-a6a1-41bb-aeb0-a49be255a293\u0022\u003EThis Budget shows that the Government\u2019s priorities are in the wrong place. How can we in a country like New Zealand accept that funding a convention centre for more pokie machines is a good signal to New Zealanders? How can that be the case? It just does not make sense. In fact, in small towns, in small communities, they are fighting tooth and nail to have a sinking lid on pokie machines.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u0022a68928ea-9dd8-4a30-8e2c-a0f49dfc8bea\u0022 data-id=\u00227a72dcc5a6fa49158e2f86413de59570\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000525\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022a68928ea-9dd8-4a30-8e2c-a0f49dfc8bea\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u00227a72dcc5a6fa49158e2f86413de59570\u0022\u003ELOUISE UPSTON (National\u2014Taup\u014D):\u003C/span\u003E I am extremely proud to stand and speak in this Budget debate and to support the Minister of Finance, Bill English, in the Budget that he delivered here 3 weeks ago. It is a Budget that I do believe is delivering for rural and provincial New Zealand. It is delivering for families, small businesses, and communities alike. I can be quite confident in saying that because, as I have been out and about in the various small towns and communities in the Taup\u014D electorate, that is what they are telling me. There are some very sensible, very practical solutions where funding is focused where it actually counts and where it makes a difference for hard-working New Zealanders. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000526\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022a68928ea-9dd8-4a30-8e2c-a0f49dfc8bea\u0022\u003EFamilies are the backbone of our communities. That is clear. This Government has continued to support those families. We know that some families are missing out and that is why we have had a particular focus on those more vulnerable families in this 2013 Budget. We are also boosting the support for low-income families who are entirely dependent on the State. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000527\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022a68928ea-9dd8-4a30-8e2c-a0f49dfc8bea\u0022\u003EThere are a couple of things that families up and down the electorate are pretty clear about in terms of what is important to them. It is important to them to be in homes that are warm and dry, and they want to be able to know with confidence that they can buy their groceries each week, that their job has got some continuity, and that their children have the best education possible. This is a Government that is doing that. More important, the very recurring theme that constituents raise is that they want to know that their lives are improving, and that is exactly what this Government is doing. By focusing on the economy and where it counts, and by getting into black, that is where we are heading. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000528\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022a68928ea-9dd8-4a30-8e2c-a0f49dfc8bea\u0022\u003EOne of the aspects that we have heard a lot about in this Budget is housing. We have made improvements in housing in a number of different areas through the home insulation schemes that are making houses warmer and drier and with legislation that we have initiated to actually make homes more affordable. We all know that for hard-working Kiwi families it is a dream of theirs to own their own home. This Government is actually being very practical and very sensible in making changes that make that a reality for those families. For many families living in Auckland it just seems incredibly unattainable right now, so it is great to see that we are actually making progress in the area of affordability of housing. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000529\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022a68928ea-9dd8-4a30-8e2c-a0f49dfc8bea\u0022\u003EBut the areas that I am particularly pleased about, though, are what we are doing for parents. We have had a number of debates recently here about paid parental leave. Well, this is a Government that has actually increased paid parental leave by $67 a week. In other countries, if we look at other countries around the world, they struggle to keep the entitlements that they have put in place for parental leave and initiatives like that. We have also made sure that the Working for Families programme is better targeted so it actually gets those who need it the most. I think those are important measures. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000530\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022a68928ea-9dd8-4a30-8e2c-a0f49dfc8bea\u0022\u003EIf we look, for example, across the Tasman\u2014we are often compared with Australia\u2014the Government there has made cuts in its Budget to its support for families. It has made cuts. But not only have we held our entitlements, we have actually managed to increase them. If you look at Australia, the Government has removed what it had as its baby bonus, where it paid $5,000 for each newborn child. It has introduced means testing for family tax benefits and some families in that middle tax bracket, who often seem to be hit from all directions, are losing entitlements. So I think it is really important that we have that as a perspective and as a measure when New Zealand is doing so much better than Australia in terms of maintaining the support and growing the support for families\u2014and that is despite the fact that we have had this global financial crisis. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000531\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022a68928ea-9dd8-4a30-8e2c-a0f49dfc8bea\u0022\u003EThe difference is that on this side of the House we are very clear about having the fix for these issues at the top of the cliff. You know, we have the numbers batted to us from the Opposition parties about the number of children in poverty, so I think it is important for us to just put a bit of perspective around this bit. After 9 years of surpluses that were at record numbers, after 9 years of a Labour Government, there were 240,000 children in poverty. So, after the worst economic times this century, the number of children has increased\u2014absolutely\u2014but, actually, the Labour Government did very little about it. This is a Government that is very practical, very sensible, and is focusing the support exactly where it is needed, and that is at the top of the cliff rather than at the bottom, catching those vulnerable children when it is far too late. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000532\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022a68928ea-9dd8-4a30-8e2c-a0f49dfc8bea\u0022\u003EI think those are the sorts of things that New Zealanders are responding to. If you walk down the street in the Taup\u014D electorate, not one person\u2014not one person\u2014has complained about something that we are doing in the Budget, because they know it is sensible, they know it is practical. We are focusing exactly where we need to and some of these areas are in health, for example. As a mum you want to make sure that you are preventing your children from getting sick. What does that mean? It means things like immunisation. It means getting checks before your child is really ill. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000533\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022a68928ea-9dd8-4a30-8e2c-a0f49dfc8bea\u0022\u003EIt also means things like cancer checks. We have got more money towards prostate cancer checks and breast cancer checks. Those are practical, sensible solutions. We have got $35.5 million towards diabetes and heart disease checks. We have got significant increases in the number of children being immunised. All of these things are smaller numbers\u2014then we talk about the $14.5 billion into health\u2014but they are numbers that people on the street can actually understand and they can see where that difference is being made. You have got a mum getting cancer treatment sooner, or you have got a child that is being immunised, or you have got a child getting surgery without waiting too long. It is those simple, practical things that make a difference for everyday hard-working New Zealanders. That is why they are supporting this Government in droves, because the things that matter to them are the things that we are delivering. They are the results that we are delivering. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000534\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022a68928ea-9dd8-4a30-8e2c-a0f49dfc8bea\u0022\u003EI was absolutely staggered\u2014absolutely staggered\u2014in the House yesterday to have one of the Opposition parties raise this mind-blowing idea about having nurses in schools. Well, there are already nurses in 860 deciles 1, 2, and 3 primary and intermediate schools. Hello! We have nurses. They have been there for quite some time, and, in addition, this Government has put more social workers into schools. This is what I mean about practical, sensible solutions at the top of the cliff, not waiting for those vulnerable children to become statistics. We are making practical solutions, whether it is nurses or whether it is social workers in schools. It bothers me quite a lot that Opposition members in this House do not even take the time to figure out what support is already in our schools for our families and for our communities. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000535\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022a68928ea-9dd8-4a30-8e2c-a0f49dfc8bea\u0022\u003EHere is another example of a very practical solution. We are very clear on this side of the House that the ultimate responsibility for feeding children lies with parents. We are absolutely very clear about that, but, also, we do recognise that it takes a village to raise a child. So here we have come up with a solution that embraces Government, that calls on private enterprise and on the community, and that also calls on the parents of the children involved by having a partnership with Sanitarium and Fonterra and expanding what we have had in place for quite some time. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000536\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022a68928ea-9dd8-4a30-8e2c-a0f49dfc8bea\u0022\u003ESo it is quite irresponsible for members to be in this House and talk about the fact that this Government has done nothing about providing food in schools for those children. We have already had programmes, and we are now extending them. We recognise very clearly that if we want to raise students\u2019 achievement, we need to focus on the barriers to learning. Clearly, children cannot learn if they are hungry, so we are taking care of that. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000537\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022a68928ea-9dd8-4a30-8e2c-a0f49dfc8bea\u0022\u003EIn early childhood education it is fantastic to see that the numbers are going up. We all recognise that if children have access to education before starting school, they are going to do better. We are putting money into boards of trustees\u2014the school leaders. We are putting $2.4 million into connecting communities. To respond to the comment from the member Nanaia Mahuta, who spoke prior to me, in regard to the $19 million to establish partnership schools, well, as a parent I actually think it is a really good idea if parents have choice about their children\u2019s education, and I do not think that that is a problem. I am just staggered to be in this House to hear Opposition members who are defending unions, and unions\u2019 choice. Actually, this side of the House believes that parents should have more choice about how their children are educated, and Opposition members should be very willing to say that if someone is not measuring up, parents should be able to choose another school and make sure that their child is getting the results that they deserve. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000538\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022a68928ea-9dd8-4a30-8e2c-a0f49dfc8bea\u0022\u003EThat is why New Zealanders can see that this side of the House is delivering real results in education and in health, and it is coming up with initiatives to solve community issues like children attending school without having breakfast. It is very solutions-orientated, and that is why I am enormously proud to be part of the John Key - led Government and to be supporting a Budget that was so well delivered by the Minister of Finance, Bill English.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u002298dbeffa-e059-49d5-8bbf-579cbaead9a3\u0022 data-id=\u00223edbf71847f2407bad8e63862e4e3e6d\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000539\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002298dbeffa-e059-49d5-8bbf-579cbaead9a3\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u00223edbf71847f2407bad8e63862e4e3e6d\u0022\u003ESCOTT SIMPSON (National\u2014Coromandel):\u003C/span\u003E It is an enormous pleasure to follow the very capable senior whip and member for Taup\u014D, Louise Upston, and her speech commending this fifth Budget by Bill English. It is a Budget that builds on the momentum that the previous four Budgets have set in place, and it absolutely guarantees the next steps towards a much brighter future, not just for this current generation but for the generations yet to come, because this is a Budget that delivers for all New Zealanders where it counts. It is a Budget that continues the very prudent, careful, responsible fiscal stewardship of Bill English and John Key and this National-led Government. I do not think, in fact, that the team of Bill English and John Key is being given enough credit for the terrific job that they have done in steering our country through the worst economic conditions since the 1930s, and not just here in New Zealand. Those international conditions have been the most challenging to face several generations, so I think they have been doing a great job for New Zealand and they have been doing a great job for the people of Coromandel. In years to come, Bill English and John Key will be treated well by history for their steady and careful prudent management of our economy during these most difficult times. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000540\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002298dbeffa-e059-49d5-8bbf-579cbaead9a3\u0022\u003EThere is nothing weird, there is nothing strange, and there is nothing irresponsible or unusual in this Budget. There is nothing that involves the printing of great wads of money from a photocopier buried deep in the bowels of the Beehive, and there is nothing unfair in terms of tax hikes or further borrowing that is unnecessary. There are no capital gains taxes and there are no attacks on hard-working families or business folk in New Zealand. There is no nationalisation of the electricity market. There is nothing weird, strange, or unusual about this Budget. It is just good, stable, prudent, careful management and stewardship of our economy during difficult times, and on top of all that we are rebuilding Christchurch. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000541\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002298dbeffa-e059-49d5-8bbf-579cbaead9a3\u0022\u003EIt is an absolute privilege to be the MP for Coromandel, to be the MP for the most beautiful part of the country\u20144,500 square kilometres of New Zealand. It is almost more attractive than the deep south. We are the beneficiaries of the lowest cost of living increases since 1999, and we are also the beneficiaries of after-tax wage growth of 22 percent since September 2008. That is a huge achievement. That is real dollars, real income, and real spending power in the pockets of ordinary New Zealanders. What is more, we have the lowest mortgage rate since 1965 and economic growth of 3 percent, which puts us in a position of being the envy of the world. What does all this mean for the good people of Coromandel? Well, let us just take a look at tourism for a minute, because it is well known that Coromandel is, in fact, the Queenstown of the North Island. Hundreds of thousands of people visit each year, and they come and see, and share, our pristine beaches, our magnificent bush and walking tracks and, of course, our hugely successful new Hauraki Rail Trail cycleway. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000542\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002298dbeffa-e059-49d5-8bbf-579cbaead9a3\u0022\u003EThe cycleway has been a magnificent success in absolutely every regard. It is part of the John Key plan for a nationwide network of cycleways. It was opened only 13 months ago and already it is meeting and exceeding every possible projection that was set for it. Originally, the projection was that after 5 years some 45,000 people would have used the cycleway, but in January, February, and March of this year alone, over 36,000 people took advantage of that new cycleway\u201436,000 people\u2014and, according to a study organised by the University of Waikato, each of them spent on average $103 in our region. That has enormous benefit to our local economy. That is a huge positive input of cash and money and enterprise into our region. So it is not just locals who are enjoying the Coromandel and its pristine, beautiful treats and delights, but, of course, it is international tourists as well. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000543\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002298dbeffa-e059-49d5-8bbf-579cbaead9a3\u0022\u003EBudget 2013 provides a massive $158 million of extra funding for tourism. Included in that package is a very good, new scheme that involves the spending of $28 million over the next 4 years to co-fund business innovation and growth in the tourism sector. The initiative is called the Tourism Growth Partnership and it is a scheme that means that Government will partner with enterprise and individuals and entrepreneurs from the tourism sector to co-fund up to 50 percent of new ventures and new, exciting, innovative tourism ideas. This is real investment not only for New Zealand but for Coromandel. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000544\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002298dbeffa-e059-49d5-8bbf-579cbaead9a3\u0022\u003EIt is a pleasure to be one of the final speakers in this Budget debate and to commend again the work of Bill English and the finance team for what is a good, stable, clear Budget that puts us firmly on the track to being back in surplus next year, and that is a great thing. I am very proud to be part of a Government that has presented such a good Budget to the people of New Zealand.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u00221dbd2811-8e58-4ffb-848d-31c0eaa9690a\u0022 data-id=\u0022897b28d8b252470788328b228427edc2\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000545\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00221dbd2811-8e58-4ffb-848d-31c0eaa9690a\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u0022897b28d8b252470788328b228427edc2\u0022\u003ECHRIS HIPKINS (Labour\u2014Rimutaka):\u003C/span\u003E I am very happy to take the final Labour Party call in this year\u2019s Budget debate. It is a Budget that demonstrates very clearly that this Government has its priorities all wrong. This Budget, like so much of what the National Party does, is about John Key\u2019s mates, not Kiwis\u2019 mates. That is what this Budget is all about. This is a Government that has totally and utterly failed to adapt to the changing global economic environment. The merchant banking outlook has failed the world economy, and clinging to it harms, not helps, us here in New Zealand. Yet this Government refuses to confront that reality and deal with that reality. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000546\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00221dbd2811-8e58-4ffb-848d-31c0eaa9690a\u0022\u003EThe Labour Party accepts and acknowledges that things have changed. Economic growth has to be based on the real economy and on businesses that create products and services that bring real growth and real jobs to New Zealand, not on speculation. The National Party is all about speculation and divvying up and selling off what previous generations have built up for New Zealanders. It is not growing anything for the future. It is divvying up and hocking off what we have been left by those who came before us. It is not creating the brighter future that John Key promised to New Zealanders. It is not leaving a brighter future legacy for future generations of New Zealanders. It is content simply to divvy up and hock off what we have left. That is not going to lead to a better New Zealand for future generations of New Zealanders. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000547\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00221dbd2811-8e58-4ffb-848d-31c0eaa9690a\u0022\u003EThis is the same National Government that is doing backroom deals to trade the misery of pokie machines for a convention centre. This is not a Government that is focused on looking after those at the bottom of the economic pile. It is interested only in those at the top\u2014its mates, the people who benefited from the tax cuts, the people who have given money to the National Party\u2014not the people at the bottom of the economic heap who are facing ever-rising costs of living. They are losing their jobs, yet the National Party does nothing. They are suffering from increases in GST, yet Bill English rubs his hands together and happily takes that money so that he can continue to dish out tax cuts to those at the top of the heap. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000548\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00221dbd2811-8e58-4ffb-848d-31c0eaa9690a\u0022\u003EBut the single biggest thing that this Government has failed to deal with in this year\u2019s Budget, Bill English\u2019s fifth Budget, as in all of Bill English\u2019s Budgets, is the fact that New Zealand has the largest deficit in the world. New Zealand has the largest deficit in the world\u2014even bigger than Greece\u2019s. So when Bill English talks about Greece and how New Zealand should not follow the road that the Government in Greece is following, what he fails to acknowledge is that, in fact, we are in worse shape than Greece. We have a bigger deficit than Greece\u2019s, and Bill English is not doing anything about that. He is leaving for future generations of New Zealand masses and masses of debt\u2014masses and masses of debt\u2014because rather than growing the real economy, the productive economy that will lead to more jobs for New Zealand and more income for New Zealand in the future, Bill English is interested only in hocking off what little we have got left. That is totally wrong. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000549\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00221dbd2811-8e58-4ffb-848d-31c0eaa9690a\u0022\u003EThis is a Government that has got its priorities all wrong, and I guess the reason for that is that this is a Government beset by scandals and by distractions\u2014from John Key\u2019s cup of tea deal, which has landed up in John Banks now being in the dock in court, through to Peter Dunne rorting the parliamentary system so that he can pretend to be a party leader and claim over $120,000 in extra funding every year, by pretending to lead a party that does not even exist. Then we have got the Aaron Gilmore saga. He lifted the veil on the arrogance that pervades the National Party, because those people think they are better than the rest of New Zealand. They genuinely believe that they are better than the rest of New Zealand. And the reason the National Party got rid of Aaron Gilmore was not necessarily because of what he did but because of what it betrayed about the true state and the true attitudes of those who are in the National Party. But, actually, give Aaron Gilmore credit. At least he paid for the drinks that he was shouting at a National Party conference, unlike Phil Heatley, who was quite happy to clock it up on his ministerial credit card. At least Aaron Gilmore put it on his own credit card and paid for it himself, unlike Phil Heatley and unlike the member Bill English, the Minister of Finance, whose first decision as Minister of Finance was to work out how much more he could rort out of the housing allowances available to Ministers of the Crown. His biggest priority was working out how much more he could pay his cleaner. He was not interested in cleaners on the minimum wage\u2014he was not interested in them at all. He was interested in getting more cleaning for his house. It did not matter about all the minimum-wage cleaners who are out there, who have been completely ignored by this Government. Then, of course, we had the Pansy Wong scandal. Pansy Wong resigned from Parliament in a corruption scandal. Richard Worth resigned from Parliament in a scandal, but we are not allowed to know what that was. John Key lost confidence in Richard Worth but will not tell anybody why.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000550\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00221dbd2811-8e58-4ffb-848d-31c0eaa9690a\u0022\u003EThis is a Government that has accumulated scandals. Over 5 years it has accumulated more scandals than any other Government in that period of time\u2014more than any other Government in 5 years. Bill English, John Key, and their colleagues have been accumulating baggage and accumulating scandals, and it has distracted them from their real job of governing in the best interests of all New Zealanders. This is a Government that is stuck in the past, that is stuck in a rort\u2014in a rort, that is right; I was going to say \u201Ca rut\u201D, but \u201Ca rort\u201D is just as good because that is what it is. The Government is in a rut, rorting the system, and it is not interested in what is happening to ordinary, everyday New Zealanders. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000551\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00221dbd2811-8e58-4ffb-848d-31c0eaa9690a\u0022\u003ELet us look at the Government\u2019s education budget. What did it do in education? It cut funding to Te Kotahitanga, one of those programmes that has got a proven track record of delivering for people who have not been succeeding in the education system. The Government cut that, and it gave $19 million to charter schools. It increased the funding for private schools, and cut funding for teacher professional development. That says a lot about its priorities. Here is another one that is a cracker\u2014not many people have picked this up yet\u2014it cut $4 million out of special-needs transport. This is the money that transports kids with special needs from their homes to the schools. The Government cut $4 million out of that budget\u2014$4 million came out of that budget. Five million dollars\u2014$5 million\u2014came out of the budget for teacher training scholarships. This is a Government that really does not care about a quality teaching workforce. It is deregulating. We do not have to have qualified teachers in charter schools. It cut the funding for professional development for teachers, and it cut the funding for teacher training scholarships. This Government is not interested in a qualified, registered teaching profession\u2014oh no, not at all. It ignores the fact that quality teaching is the biggest in-school influencing factor on student achievement. Of course, it ignores all of the out-of-school influences on student achievement, so why should it be focused on the in-school ones, given that it will not do anything about the out-of-school ones either? \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000552\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00221dbd2811-8e58-4ffb-848d-31c0eaa9690a\u0022\u003EIn this year\u2019s Budget, of course, the Government found more money for Novopay\u2014that absolute shambles that Bill English, Hekia Parata, and Craig Foss signed off on, despite the fact that it had 147 known defects. No one\u2014none of those three rocket scientists who signed it off\u2014thought to ask: \u201COh, there are 147 known defects. What are they?\u201D. No one actually thought to ask what they were. None of those Ministers on their $250,000 a year salaries bothered to actually read the briefing papers they got given. Bill English\u2019s signature is scrawled on it. He did not date it, surprisingly, but I suspect that that is because he did not really read it. They signed off on it without even reading it and without asking the basic questions, and New Zealanders continue to pay for their mistakes. Millions of dollars\u2014millions and millions of dollars\u2014are going into Novopay to clean up the mess made by the incompetence of the three Ministers who signed off on Novopay without checking out the details first. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000553\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00221dbd2811-8e58-4ffb-848d-31c0eaa9690a\u0022\u003EAs for the money, the new money, that the Government promises in this year\u2019s Budget, we find when we read through it carefully that a whole lot of that money comes from lower than expected rolls in primary and secondary schools. So it is not new money at all; it is money that the Government is just taking from one part of the education budget and moving to another. It is smoke and mirrors stuff. But what is clear overall is that this is not a Budget that demonstrates a Government that is committed to education or committed to the things that work. It is not a Budget that is focused on the needs of ordinary, everyday New Zealanders. It is a Budget that is focused on John Key helping out his mates, not helping out Kiwis\u2019 mates. It is about Key\u2019s mates, not Kiwis\u2019 mates. New Zealanders deserve so much better from their Government. That is why after the next election, when they have a Labour Government, they will have a Government that is focused on the future, that is focused on positive policies that will make a real difference\u2014\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000554\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e4b09a29-dfd3-42c0-8585-11463bd6077b\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u00224a9ccf826a95489db19460fd64a0595e\u0022\u003EMr SPEAKER\u003C/span\u003E: Order! The member\u2019s time has expired.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u00228a1cb04e-8a86-44d1-9004-6e158e220339\u0022 data-id=\u00224b1d35ae4e1943c7adf47c48b46f3bb7\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000555\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00228a1cb04e-8a86-44d1-9004-6e158e220339\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u00224b1d35ae4e1943c7adf47c48b46f3bb7\u0022\u003ETIM MACINDOE (National\u2014Hamilton West):\u003C/span\u003E And since 2008 New Zealanders have been receiving much better from their Government. I am very proud to be a member of the John Key - led National Government, and I am incredibly proud to support the 2013 Budget presented by the Minister of Finance, the Hon Bill English. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000556\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00228a1cb04e-8a86-44d1-9004-6e158e220339\u0022\u003EAs we conclude the annual appropriations debate, it is notable that speakers on this side of the House have spoken about specific facts and figures that demonstrate that this is indeed a Budget that builds on the momentum of the four Budgets that preceded it and that there are significant signs of real progress in all of the Government\u2019s well-publicised priorities. Members on this side of the House are united in our support for the Budget, proud to promote it, and delighted by the reception it has been receiving in our electorates. The fine folk of Hamilton West tell me that it is a well-measured and well-balanced package, and they are very pleased with its provisions. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000557\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00228a1cb04e-8a86-44d1-9004-6e158e220339\u0022\u003ENew Zealanders, of course, have been through very tough times, but they are increasingly confident and optimistic. They can see that National is, indeed, Building a Brighter Future for everyone\u2014not for just a few but for everyone\u2014which has been our unrelenting focus since we came into office in late 2008. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000558\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00228a1cb04e-8a86-44d1-9004-6e158e220339\u0022\u003EBy contrast, speakers opposite have avoided the details in the Budget, ignored the considerable evidence of substantial and sustainable progress, and resorted to a combination of mock outrage, disingenuous criticism, such as those we have just heard repeated again by the member for Rimutaka, and personal attacks\u2014some of them being nasty personal attacks. Their approach has been uncoordinated, unconvincing, and embarrassing.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000559\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00228a1cb04e-8a86-44d1-9004-6e158e220339\u0022\u003E Budgets contain many details and are about figures, but, ultimately and more important, they are about people. This year\u2019s Budget delivers particularly encouraging news for those New Zealanders who have suffered a great deal in the 5 years since the onset of the global financial crisis and the previous Government\u2019s reckless spending, which combined to plunge our country into recession just months before we were elected. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000560\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00228a1cb04e-8a86-44d1-9004-6e158e220339\u0022\u003EI commend to those who may have missed them the speeches delivered in this Budget yesterday by our indefatigable Minister of Trade, the Hon Tim Groser, and another by the same Minister in the general debate on 15 May. Perhaps it is our shared Christian names, or our youthful blond locks, but I thought they were two of the best speeches I have heard this year. The figures he produced, comparing New Zealand\u2019s economic performance with some of the most prosperous nations in the OECD, exposed the shallow nonsense of our critics opposite, and highlighted the gains we have made. He noted that New Zealand, along with Australia, is growing faster than any developed country in the world. It is currently at 3.1 percent growth and it is projected to continue at between 2 and 3 per cent for the next 3 years. He noted that the annual increase in the cost of living\u2014currently less than 1 per cent\u2014is about as low as it has been for three decades. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000561\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00228a1cb04e-8a86-44d1-9004-6e158e220339\u0022\u003EOpposition members love to talk about families struggling to put food on the table. Well, I am proud to point out to them that not only have food prices not risen in the past 12 months, they have actually fallen slightly. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000562\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00228a1cb04e-8a86-44d1-9004-6e158e220339\u0022\u003EMeanwhile, let us have a look at how this Government is assisting those people, whom Labour once claimed to represent, to boost their incomes. After-tax wages have increased by 20 per cent since 2008\u201420 percent\u2014more than double the cost of living. When this Government came into office in late 2008, a New Zealander working a 40-hour week on the minimum wage was paid $480 gross per week. The PAYE on that wage was $78. This Government has increased the minimum wage incrementally every year since then. So the same worker in June 2013 earns $550, and, thanks to the significant tax cuts that we introduced in 2010, now pays $77.50 in PAYE on that higher amount. That alone is an extra $70.50 for that person per week from the income that that worker worked so hard to achieve, which he or she can now retain, and he or she may well be entitled to other forms of support, such as Working for Families, which could be in the region of $280. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000563\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00228a1cb04e-8a86-44d1-9004-6e158e220339\u0022\u003ELife is difficult for those people\u2014no question about it\u2014but they are significantly better off than they were when Labour was in office, and they will be better off again as we keep building a more productive and competitive economy and delivering better public services. We must maintain that determination if we are to make further progress in reducing our rate of unemployment. That is why our welfare policies and the further initiatives announced in this Budget are so firmly focused on helping everyone who is looking for work to find it. Although an unemployment rate of 6.2 per cent is still too high, it is trending downwards and it compares very favourably with all of those countries we like to compare ourselves with. Again, as Tim Groser told us yesterday, if you look at a country like Sweden, which currently has a youth unemployment rate of 25.1 percent\u201425.1 percent youth unemployment\u2014you realise we are not doing so badly. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000564\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00228a1cb04e-8a86-44d1-9004-6e158e220339\u0022\u003EWe are reducing debt, we are rebuilding Canterbury, and we are on track to returning to surplus in 2014-15. It is a remarkable record. It is a tribute not only to the work of our excellent Minister of Finance, our Prime Minister, and his Cabinet but to hard-working, realistic New Zealanders from Northland to Stewart Island, who understand what needs to be done and who support our clear programme and our Business Growth Agenda to achieve it. We are delivering a brighter future. This is a great country of great people and great opportunities. This is a Budget that is fair, visionary, and well-targeted, and I repeat that I am proud to be associated with it. I congratulate Bill English on the fine work that he is doing, and I know every member of this side shares that sentiment.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u0022bb158206-360b-4757-8d72-f7d0994e1fb3\u0022 data-id=\u00221c49a393be19432db4aba8c9bea670e9\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000565\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022bb158206-360b-4757-8d72-f7d0994e1fb3\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u00221c49a393be19432db4aba8c9bea670e9\u0022\u003EHon BILL ENGLISH (Minister of Finance):\u003C/span\u003E It is a pleasure to close off the Budget debate for 2013, because the contentions set forth in the Budget by the National-led Government remain, I think, intact, despite the benefit of 16 or 17 hours of debate here. What is pretty clear, as a result of this debate but also the public debate around the Budget, is that the Government is on track with its plans, and so New Zealand is on track. As has been pointed out, we are on track to surplus. We are on track to a more competitive economy that is creating more jobs and lifting incomes, and that can do better; we are on track with Better Public Services, despite a recession and despite considerable efforts to contain expenditure; and we are on track to rebuild Christchurch, which is in itself a very substantial task. If I can, I acknowledge the enormous effort of the Christchurch community through difficult times. They deserve all of the support, including the $2 billion extra allocated to them in this current Budget. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000566\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022bb158206-360b-4757-8d72-f7d0994e1fb3\u0022\u003EThe Budget is another step in the John Key - led National Government\u2019s approach to sensible economic policy, and that is to focus on considered and consistent change over time. At no stage has this Government overreacted to the pressures of uncertainty in the global economy. We have not overreacted to the fact that, in 1 year, we had an $18 billion deficit\u20149 per cent of GDP. We have set out to explain the changes we are making to take considered steps, rather than radical steps, and to bring the public along with us, because the most important change in this economy is the change that sticks\u2014the change that is supported by the public. That is what contributes most to our long-term economic prospects. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000567\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022bb158206-360b-4757-8d72-f7d0994e1fb3\u0022\u003EThe Budget came at a time when confidence in our economic direction was rising, and I think we can say that the Budget has helped with that. The track to surplus has come to be seen as something of a symbol of whether the economy is on track, and the fact that we can confirm in this Budget that we are on track to surplus has helped lift confidence in the economy. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000568\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022bb158206-360b-4757-8d72-f7d0994e1fb3\u0022\u003E Unlike our Opposition parties, we know, and we believe, that the essential decisions made in the economy are made in households over the kitchen table, in businesses in the smoko room, and in organisations that are planning their futures over the next year or so. What is really important, what has become clearer, is that those people are now approaching those tasks with some optimism. It has been a while since they have done that. They have shown resilience and they have shown perseverance, and now New Zealanders are starting to enjoy some very well-deserved optimism. They understand that they have become much better at handling economic uncertainty, and that there are pay-offs for reorganising their households and their businesses in the same way that the Government has got to go through the same process. Relative to most other developed country economies, they are in pretty good shape, enjoying moderate and consistently rising incomes, moderate and consistent new job creation, and improving prospects for more of that. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000569\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022bb158206-360b-4757-8d72-f7d0994e1fb3\u0022\u003EThrough this debate we also learnt a bit about the Opposition. I think two things stand out in what we have learnt about the Opposition. The first is that the Greens are leading Labour by the nose. The Greens are leading Labour by the nose, because they are more energetic, they have got more initiative, they have got more energy, they have got a sharper, tougher leader who goes right to the edge of personal abuse\u2014as he did the other day\u2014they are more active, they have got more ideas, and they are deciding the tone of the Opposition. And it is not just the public who can see that; we can see it in here pretty much every day. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000570\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022bb158206-360b-4757-8d72-f7d0994e1fb3\u0022\u003EI am sure, though\u2014[Interruption] Hang on. We have also seen the Greens bare their teeth. We have seen them bare their teeth, and it was a snarl. It makes very clear what the tone of that kind of Government would be. The snarl, the put-down, the personal abuse\u2014that is the style, and we see the subtle versions of it day after day. They make the Labour Party look polite. But I think there is one reason why they are getting pretty snarly\u2014they are getting frustrated with the Labour Party. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000571\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022bb158206-360b-4757-8d72-f7d0994e1fb3\u0022\u003EThe Labour Party is in year 5 of Opposition\u2014year 5 of Opposition. What it will do, what it is doing, is blaming David Shearer. Look, Labour members are blaming David Shearer for the Labour Party being so hopeless. David Shearer has a very hard job, and I know because I have had that job. I can say that with feeling. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000572\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022bb158206-360b-4757-8d72-f7d0994e1fb3\u0022\u003EBut Labour\u2019s problem is not David Shearer; it is the rest of them. He is a reasonable guy who is developing some rapport with the New Zealand public because he is the only face of Labour that is not tainted with the failed Clark Government\u2014the only face of Labour. But the rest of the Labour Party members are simply lazy. What they thought would happen\u2014this is the little equation in their heads: \u201CRecession! National will cut stuff all over the place, and the Government will fall back in our laps.\u201D That is what they thought would happen, so they have not rethought anything in 5 years\u2014they have not rethought anything in 5 long years. And I have been wrong. I have to own up to being wrong about Labour, because I used to say that by about year 5 Oppositions start getting a grip\u2014about year 5. And I was wrong because Labour has not got a grip yet. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000573\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022bb158206-360b-4757-8d72-f7d0994e1fb3\u0022\u003EEven in Labour\u2019s own corner of the political spectrum, all its voters are working with us on innovative social policy that is starting to have a real impact on long-running, complex public policy problems. We are engaged every day in gritty, responsible discussions with people who are starting to wonder why they vote Labour. So if Labour cannot get its own supporters criticising the Government\u2014because they do not; they work with us\u2014then it has got no hope of getting the wider public to oppose this Government. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000574\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022bb158206-360b-4757-8d72-f7d0994e1fb3\u0022\u003EWe are proud of this Budget as part of a series of five Budgets that has helped New Zealand dig itself out of a hole that was a big, deep hole, the product of a worldwide recession and the failures of the previous Labour Government, which drove us into recession before the financial crisis. In that context, we have supported the most vulnerable New Zealanders when they most needed it, and we can now, if we stick to this path, offer not just the most vulnerable but every New Zealander the prospect of a better job, the prospect of a better income, the prospect of a country with a sense of direction, the prospect of a New Zealand growing faster than Australia, and the prospect of a New Zealand that can build a brighter future on the huge opportunities across the Asia-Pacific region. We have only just begun.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u0022e4b09a29-dfd3-42c0-8585-11463bd6077b\u0022 data-id=\u00226a6ee351a2b54834bc0fd18a1faf1528\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000575\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e4b09a29-dfd3-42c0-8585-11463bd6077b\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u00226a6ee351a2b54834bc0fd18a1faf1528\u0022\u003EMr SPEAKER\u003C/span\u003E: The question is that the amendment in the name of the Leader of the Opposition be agreed to.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca id=\u0022183ecd3cc3c342ed9fc7ac26609faab8\u0022 name=\u0022division\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp class=\u0022HpsDivision\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsItem\u0022\u003EA party vote was called for on the question, That all the words after \u201CThat\u201D be omitted and substituted with the words: \u201Cthis House has no confidence in the National-led Government because it has failed to deliver on its promises and because it has put vested interests ahead of the interests of hardworking New Zealanders.\u201D\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp class=\u0022HpsDivision\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsItem\u0022\u003EAyes 53\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp class=\u0022HpsDivision\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsItem\u0022\u003ENew Zealand Labour 32; Green Party 12; New Zealand First 7; Mana 1; Independent: Horan.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp class=\u0022HpsDivision\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsItem\u0022\u003ENoes 63\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp class=\u0022HpsDivision\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsItem\u0022\u003ENew Zealand National 59; M\u0101ori Party 2; ACT New Zealand 1; United Future 1.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp class=\u0022HpsDivision\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsItem\u0022\u003EAmendment not agreed to.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u0022f5d71749-ae91-4af7-b2bd-77260398912a\u0022 data-id=\u0022c0c7aefe8cf54ff3884e56ed5bcaf78a\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000576\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022f5d71749-ae91-4af7-b2bd-77260398912a\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u0022c0c7aefe8cf54ff3884e56ed5bcaf78a\u0022\u003EHon DAVID PARKER (Labour):\u003C/span\u003E I raise a point of order, Mr Speaker. I did not raise this point of order during the vote. How can Mr Dunne vote as a party, when his party has been deregistered? I do not object to Mr Dunne voting, but I cannot see how he can vote as the United Future party, when that party has been deregistered at law.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u0022e4b09a29-dfd3-42c0-8585-11463bd6077b\u0022 data-id=\u00222cae30e52e814f73bf0b7ecfbc482807\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000577\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e4b09a29-dfd3-42c0-8585-11463bd6077b\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u00222cae30e52e814f73bf0b7ecfbc482807\u0022\u003EMr SPEAKER\u003C/span\u003E: Order! The member will recall that I gave a ruling earlier today. The member is welcome to have another look at that, but at this stage I am continuing to recognise United Future as a party here in this House. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca id=\u00226df5829d83994ee7be93c17633d1a7ae\u0022 name=\u0022division\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp class=\u0022HpsDivision\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsItem\u0022\u003EA party vote was called for on the question, That the Appropriation (2013/14 Estimates) Bill be now read a second time.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp class=\u0022HpsDivision\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsItem\u0022\u003EAyes 63\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp class=\u0022HpsDivision\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsItem\u0022\u003ENew Zealand National 59; M\u0101ori Party 2; ACT New Zealand 1; United Future 1.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp class=\u0022HpsDivision\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsItem\u0022\u003ENoes 53\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp class=\u0022HpsDivision\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsItem\u0022\u003ENew Zealand Labour 32; Green Party 12; New Zealand First 7; Mana 1; Independent: Horan.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp class=\u0022HpsDivision\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsItem\u0022\u003EBill read a second time.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n    \u003C/div\u003E\n    \u003Cdiv class=\u0022HpsHansard\u0022\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000578\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsProceedingHeading\u0022 id=\u00221962c4bd1a7f46faa81990f77e872ec3\u0022\u003ETabling of Documents\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000579\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsSubjectHeading\u0022 id=\u00223256120ae0174a5d993118f5215e66c3\u0022\u003EElectoral Commission\u2014Decision on Status of United Future\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u0022f5d71749-ae91-4af7-b2bd-77260398912a\u0022 data-id=\u0022d667d58751dc480fbd61f9637848f6b9\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000580\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022f5d71749-ae91-4af7-b2bd-77260398912a\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u0022d667d58751dc480fbd61f9637848f6b9\u0022\u003EHon DAVID PARKER (Labour):\u003C/span\u003E I seek leave to table the decision of the Electoral Commission that United Future is no longer a political party at law.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u0022e4b09a29-dfd3-42c0-8585-11463bd6077b\u0022 data-id=\u0022e113aa7505214881aa2d2111e74720c7\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000581\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e4b09a29-dfd3-42c0-8585-11463bd6077b\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u0022e113aa7505214881aa2d2111e74720c7\u0022\u003EMr SPEAKER\u003C/span\u003E: Leave is sought for that course of action. Is there any objection? There is no objection. It can be so tabled.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000582\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e4b09a29-dfd3-42c0-8585-11463bd6077b\u0022\u003EDocument, by leave, laid on the Table of the House.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n    \u003C/div\u003E\n    \u003Cdiv class=\u0022HpsHansard\u0022\u003E\n      \u003Cp\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsProceedingHeading\u0022\u003EBills\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000583\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsSubjectHeading\u0022 id=\u0022d15458a2ffc848e1ba3eb381c768cc70\u0022\u003ELocal Government (Auckland Council) Amendment Bill (No 2)\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000584\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsSubproceedingHeading\u0022 id=\u0022b36d052d27d649fe82e663d4112a0de3\u0022\u003EFirst Reading\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000585\u0022\u003EDebate resumed from 5 June.\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u00222df33ee5-23d6-441c-a9ba-6495aa69f9fd\u0022 data-id=\u0022110a58f657b24bfe821b842af0dea517\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000586\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00222df33ee5-23d6-441c-a9ba-6495aa69f9fd\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u0022110a58f657b24bfe821b842af0dea517\u0022\u003EDENISE ROCHE (Green):\u003C/span\u003E When we were interrupted, I was talking about the responsibilities that local boards had under the transitional arrangements of the Auckland Council, and what they will be given permanently. They include community engagement, preparing local board plans, monitoring the local board agreement, and preparing local by-laws, although not agreeing them. They are also directly responsible for negotiating the standards of services delivered locally; identifying and communicating to the governing body the views of local people on regional strategies, policies, plans, and by-laws; providing local leadership; and developing relationships with the governing body, with the community, with community organisations, and with special-interest groups in their area. They also have to provide input into council-controlled organisations\u2019 plans, initiatives, and any additional responsibilities given to them by the governing body. For the most part, local boards in Auckland have been fulfilling their roles well. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000587\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00222df33ee5-23d6-441c-a9ba-6495aa69f9fd\u0022\u003EAlthough, where I live on Waiheke Island, there is concern that the local board is neither engaging effectively nor advocating strongly enough on issues that our community holds dear. One of the latest issues is the decision of the local board to allow Auckland Transport to reopen a 750-metre piece of road to two-way traffic after a 3-year period of it being closed to vehicles and utilised as a safe walking, cycling, and horse riding route, and a safe route for children to get to school. The community, sadly, has become incredibly divided on the issue, despite the discovery that the local board had made a decision, based on information from Auckland Transport, that the esplanade road would not get the maintenance that it desperately needed if the local board continued to keep it closed to vehicle traffic. It desperately needs this maintenance because otherwise this road is going to fall into the sea. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000588\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00222df33ee5-23d6-441c-a9ba-6495aa69f9fd\u0022\u003EAnyway, most of the community is quite opposed to opening it to two-way traffic, and so far there has been a public meeting, a festive fun day and walk around the esplanade, and a couple of surveys, and the issue is still dragging on. The one member out of five on the local board who has advocated for a more reasoned approach or a compromise has been sidelined and shut down. However, since we live in a democracy, the other board members will continue to be challenged on their decision making by our feisty community. The decision will be remembered, no doubt, in this year\u2019s elections. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000589\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00222df33ee5-23d6-441c-a9ba-6495aa69f9fd\u0022\u003ELocal decision-making and local control\u2014even if it is messy and even if it goes badly\u2014is the heart of local government. It is prudent to remember that this was one of the key issues during the Royal Commission on Auckland Governance. I think we forget that there was a royal commission, which received thousands of submissions on what was then the prospect of changing the shape of Auckland and amalgamating eight councils into one body. Of those thousands of submissions, nearly a quarter were from the Hauraki Gulf, including Waiheke Island. So that is from about 0.8 percent of the entire region\u2019s population, and I am still proud of that fact, because it highlights just how seriously our community takes local government. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000590\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00222df33ee5-23d6-441c-a9ba-6495aa69f9fd\u0022\u003EThe other thing that it is prudent to remember is that the legislation that created the super-city actually ignored quite a lot of the recommendations from the royal commission. We never did get our M\u0101ori seats on the council. We should also remember the mad haste with which this Government and its axeman\u2014or should I say ACT man, the then Minister of Local Government Rodney Hide\u2014went about amalgamating the eight councils, which meant that the democratic rights of Aucklanders were simply ignored. Until the latest attack on local government, with the changes to the local government legislation this year, other councils have at least had the ability to have a vote on whether they would amalgamate or not. We have seen that in Nelson and we have seen that in the Hawke\u2019s Bay area. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000591\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00222df33ee5-23d6-441c-a9ba-6495aa69f9fd\u0022\u003EThis Government is hell-bent on emasculating local government and local democracy. It started with Environment Canterbury when it sacked the elected councillors and appointed commissioners, and it perpetuates that lack of democracy by taking away the rights of Cantabrians to hold elections for regional councillors until 2016. We have seen the erosion of local democracy in the Auckland Housing Accord, which ran roughshod over the Resource Management Act and the consenting process, and overrides Auckland Council\u2019s unitary plan preferences for a compact city. It is also evident in the appointment by the Government of the hearings panel that will be hearing Auckland\u2019s unitary plan. We have seen it in the Resource Management Act reforms, and we have seen it as recently as two nights ago, when the Government delivered itself the power to wrest control of ratepayers\u2019 money that is allocated to transport with the Land Transport Management Amendment Act. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000592\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00222df33ee5-23d6-441c-a9ba-6495aa69f9fd\u0022\u003EThis bill, at least, is fairly innocuous. It allows local boards to carry on their good work of representing their communities and of advocating for their communities, which, in an environment where the rules are constantly being changed by this Government, becomes increasingly difficult. I applaud their efforts. They work very, very hard, and we will be supporting this bill.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u0022736a5c0b-8df3-4047-ba26-632ba2798b4c\u0022 data-id=\u00223ada33c6f6714e17b2be331363fb14ca\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000593\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022736a5c0b-8df3-4047-ba26-632ba2798b4c\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u00223ada33c6f6714e17b2be331363fb14ca\u0022\u003EMAGGIE BARRY (National\u2014North Shore):\u003C/span\u003E I rise to speak in favour of the Local Government (Auckland Council) Amendment Bill (No 2). It was introduced last night by the Minister of Local Government, Chris Tremain. It is a very straightforward piece of legislation with a very clear purpose. It is a bill that amends the Local Government Act so that Auckland\u2019s local boards can delegate various functions and powers to a committee of the local board or a council officer. This is needed, of course, because on 31 October this year those transitional powers will expire. This is a piece of legislation that absolutely replicates the current provisions and does not add any new policy. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000594\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022736a5c0b-8df3-4047-ba26-632ba2798b4c\u0022\u003EThe Greens have just said that they support it. Well, is that not a surprise? This from a member, Denise Roche, who is clearly confused: \u201CLocal government is messy, and even if it goes badly, that is democracy.\u201D Well, that is the kind of sensible solution that really characterises the Greens. They talk against it, they talk down to it, but, wow, actually, they support it. Goodness me! It is a rare thing indeed to have them support anything. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000595\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022736a5c0b-8df3-4047-ba26-632ba2798b4c\u0022\u003ELet me remind this House that ratepayers in this country absolutely have to know that their council is spending their money wisely on services that matter to them. New Zealand\u2019s 78 councils spend a lot of money\u2014some $7.5 billion of public money each year. Since 2002 council debt has quadrupled from $2 billion to $8 billion, and, on average, rates costs have increased by 7 percent per annum. There are some spectacular failings\u2014absolutely spectacular\u2014so it seems to me it is a very prudent form of the management that this Government is taking over the Resource Management Act reforms. This piece of legislation\u2014a necessary piece of legislation\u2014dovetails perfectly into our wider purpose, and actually gives this Government some say over the less able councils. We feel strongly that ratepayers need good representation and we are not about to sit back on our hands and let things like Kaipara happen. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000596\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022736a5c0b-8df3-4047-ba26-632ba2798b4c\u0022\u003EThis piece of legislation is all part of what we need to do as a Government to ensure that the regulations that went through in 2010, after Cabinet agreed that local boards should have the power to delegate, actually do allow them that power. To talk about local boards representing local communities and not to speak in favour of this legislation would be truly illogical. The Greens just skirted that in their funny little planet way. But it is apparent even to them and to others in this Chamber, even though they try to grandstand around the fact that they not happy with the wider reforms and use that as an opportunity to criticise us. Even they appreciate that the Local Government (Auckland Council) Amendment Bill (No 2) needs to go through, so there is not a lot more to be said. I will not take up any more time of the House on this piece of legislation that pretty much everyone agrees on. I commend it to the House. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u0022cbc37df2-57ae-4536-94ed-a2e39eecd585\u0022 data-id=\u0022bbb1eb15286b4ab3a2985ef08dcc339e\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000597\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022cbc37df2-57ae-4536-94ed-a2e39eecd585\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u0022bbb1eb15286b4ab3a2985ef08dcc339e\u0022\u003EPHIL TWYFORD (Labour\u2014Te Atat\u016B):\u003C/span\u003E I am glad the member Maggie Barry mentioned the Resource Management Act reforms. I am glad she mentioned this Government\u2019s track record in dealing with local government, because there is quite a lot to say. There is quite a lot to say about this Government\u2019s relationship with local government, because it is a long time\u2014it is a very long time\u2014since this country has seen a Government that has had more contempt for local government, a greater willingness to take powers away from local communities and to ride roughshod over the aspirations and rights of local communities around this country. There are many, many examples that we can talk about, and we will, before this 10-minute speaking slot is out. We will talk about some of those things. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000598\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022cbc37df2-57ae-4536-94ed-a2e39eecd585\u0022\u003ELabour is supporting this Local Government (Auckland Council) Amendment Bill (No 2). It is a straightforward bill that cleans up an anomaly in the Auckland Council establishing legislation that allows local boards in Auckland to continue to delegate functions as anybody would naturally want them to do; to delegate the day-to-day business to council staff or back up to the governing body in Auckland Council. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000599\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022cbc37df2-57ae-4536-94ed-a2e39eecd585\u0022\u003EBut Maggie Barry mentioned this Government\u2019s difficult relationship with local government, and I am going to talk about the Housing Accords and Special Housing Areas Bill, a bill currently before this House that is very relevant to this Government\u2019s troubled relationship with local government. The Land Transport Management Amendment Bill that was passed only a couple of nights ago is another example of this Government trampling over the democratic rights of local communities and giving more and more power to Cabinet and to the executive arm of Government. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000600\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022cbc37df2-57ae-4536-94ed-a2e39eecd585\u0022\u003EThe Canterbury Earthquake Recovery Authority legislation\u2014need we say any more? The elections for the Canterbury Regional Council were suspended by this Government, as if Canterbury was Fiji. The Local Government Amendment Act\u2014\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000601\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e4b09a29-dfd3-42c0-8585-11463bd6077b\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022c70a702b4836416b81a14956779e292b\u0022\u003EMr SPEAKER\u003C/span\u003E: Order! I am sorry to interrupt the member.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000602\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e4b09a29-dfd3-42c0-8585-11463bd6077b\u0022\u003EDebate interrupted.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000603\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e4b09a29-dfd3-42c0-8585-11463bd6077b\u0022\u003EThe House adjourned at 6 p.m.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20130606977501a4cbf64f7581268dac0d3a37ed000604\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e4b09a29-dfd3-42c0-8585-11463bd6077b\u0022\u003E\u003Cbr\u003E\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n    \u003C/div\u003E\n  \u003C/body\u003E\n\u003C/html\u003E"