"\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=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000001\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsProceedingHeading\u0022 id=\u00225fa7429ed5dd45f8b3958a1d5f7a9172\u0022\u003ETHURSDAY, 10 SEPTEMBER 2015\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000003\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsSubjectHeading\u0022 id=\u00227f08d2f27f914ee7a74ca32a042dee1c\u0022\u003ETHURSDAY, 10 SEPTEMBER 2015\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000002\u0022\u003EMr Speaker took the Chair at 2 p.m.\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000004\u0022\u003EPrayers.\u003C/p\u003E\n    \u003C/div\u003E\n    \u003Cdiv class=\u0022HpsHansard\u0022\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000005\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsProceedingHeading\u0022 id=\u0022f124ce59494b405a8e03036ff45ffc3e\u0022\u003EVisitors\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000006\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsSubjectHeading\u0022 id=\u00224f56048af0814c30bf6682732b47c41e\u0022\u003ETimor-Leste\u2014Delegation, Women\u2019s Parliamentary Caucus\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u0022e4b09a29-dfd3-42c0-8585-11463bd6077b\u0022 data-id=\u00226973aa0d21eb468bb4d8d6051f5a7421\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000007\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e4b09a29-dfd3-42c0-8585-11463bd6077b\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u00226973aa0d21eb468bb4d8d6051f5a7421\u0022\u003EMr SPEAKER\u003C/span\u003E: I am sure that members would wish to welcome a parliamentary delegation representing the Women\u2019s Parliamentary Caucus from the Democratic Republic of Timor-Leste who are present in the gallery. [Applause]\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n    \u003C/div\u003E\n    \u003Cdiv class=\u0022HpsHansard\u0022\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000008\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsProceedingHeading\u0022 id=\u0022684b384c1547411e842e647df52a31a0\u0022\u003EBusiness Statement\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000010\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsSubjectHeading\u0022 id=\u0022dad5dadf8e2a43a9adc23b8ac299495f\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=\u0022fbbe4c6ff7a64f89b9e72ad87752fe04\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000009\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e6b4dc55-3561-49a8-a871-ae005354ef90\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u0022fbbe4c6ff7a64f89b9e72ad87752fe04\u0022\u003EHon GERRY BROWNLEE (Leader of the House):\u003C/span\u003E When the House resumes on 15 September it is the Government\u2019s intention to progress a number of first readings on the Order Paper, including the M\u0101ori Purposes Bill, the International Finance Agreements Amendment Bill, and the Child Protection (Child Sex Offender Register) Bill. Wednesday will be a members\u2019 day.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000011\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00226007dc96-f459-4cdd-9972-4fde2c994088\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022171c4d4ae17e47f1adb3c3a2fe6fb945\u0022\u003EGrant Robertson\u003C/span\u003E: A good day\u2019s work, Gerry.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000012\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e6b4dc55-3561-49a8-a871-ae005354ef90\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022e546c627ce844fe7a6f94c277217e6c5\u0022\u003EHon GERRY BROWNLEE\u003C/span\u003E: I tell you what: only you would know. You are the expert in this House.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000013\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e4b09a29-dfd3-42c0-8585-11463bd6077b\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022bee952a97c864cc0a0d0108860dcac64\u0022\u003EMr SPEAKER\u003C/span\u003E: Order! The Leader of the House would be better not to bring me into the debate.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n    \u003C/div\u003E\n    \u003Cdiv class=\u0022HpsHansard\u0022\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000014\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsProceedingHeading\u0022 id=\u0022fb68b93c707c493caab7635150b816f0\u0022\u003ESittings of the House\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000016\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsSubjectHeading\u0022 id=\u0022a7ff11c2949841b0b71be67b8516673a\u0022\u003ESittings of the House\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u0022e6b4dc55-3561-49a8-a871-ae005354ef90\u0022 data-id=\u0022c7c0e3dfdfe343f1b6a6ffd3ac3cbbba\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000015\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e6b4dc55-3561-49a8-a871-ae005354ef90\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u0022c7c0e3dfdfe343f1b6a6ffd3ac3cbbba\u0022\u003EHon GERRY BROWNLEE (Leader of the House):\u003C/span\u003E Pursuant to Standing Order 56(1)(a), I move, That the sitting of the House on Wednesday, 16 September 2015 be extended from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Thursday, 17 September 2015, as advised to the Business Committee for the consideration of Government notices of motion Nos 1 through 4, the third reading of the Reserves and Other Lands Disposal Bill, and the first reading of the Building (Pools) Amendment Bill.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000017\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e6b4dc55-3561-49a8-a871-ae005354ef90\u0022\u003EMotion agreed to.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n    \u003C/div\u003E\n    \u003Cdiv class=\u0022HpsHansard\u0022\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000018\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsProceedingHeading\u0022 id=\u002200bd90eb33454ac59bccc8eca331b7ec\u0022\u003ESpeaker\u2019s Rulings\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000019\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsSubjectHeading\u0022 id=\u0022c2661bba15c240cb8a457bf12b66c68f\u0022\u003EWritten Questions\u2014Availability of Material Referred to in Answers\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u0022e4b09a29-dfd3-42c0-8585-11463bd6077b\u0022 data-id=\u00225ff7a5ca92e4418c9c5ec4505976d183\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000020\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e4b09a29-dfd3-42c0-8585-11463bd6077b\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u00225ff7a5ca92e4418c9c5ec4505976d183\u0022\u003EMr SPEAKER\u003C/span\u003E: Yesterday Chris Hipkins asked that I consider the adequacy of some replies to written questions. The particular issue raised with me was whether a Minister would meet the requirements of accountability of the House in answering a question by referring a member to another source of the information requested. Ministers have a responsibility to the House, and through the House to the country, to account for the public offices they hold. Questions are an important element of this accountability, and Ministers should provide informative answers to them, where doing so is consistent with the public interest. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000021\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e4b09a29-dfd3-42c0-8585-11463bd6077b\u0022\u003ERequests under the Official Information Act 1982 may be refused if the information requested is or will soon be publicly available. A question to such a Minister is not a request under the Act and should not be treated as such. While that Act may provide some guidance when replies to questions are being prepared, it does not exempt Ministers from their accountability to the House through the question procedures. The House has established its own rules for replies to questions, and its entitlement to information exceeds that under the Act. A Minister may answer a question by referring a member to information that is already publicly available. That may be the appropriate response where a significant amount of information is requested. However, if a Minister chooses to reply by directing a member to information already available, he or she must do so with some particularity. It is not acceptable to simply state that the information has already been released or that it was provided to a select committee. Rather, the Minister should provide a sufficiently detailed answer to enable the member to directly locate the information. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000022\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e4b09a29-dfd3-42c0-8585-11463bd6077b\u0022\u003EIf the information requested cannot be easily found, then the Minister should provide it in the reply to the written question. That will ensure that the Ministers meet their responsibility to be accountable to the House. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000023\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e4b09a29-dfd3-42c0-8585-11463bd6077b\u0022\u003EThe Leader of the House also invited me to consider the related matter of the nature of written questions to Ministers. Members may ask any number of written questions, and with that ability comes a requirement to ask questions responsibly. Vague or very broad questions make it difficult for a Minister to meet accountability requirements and are less likely to receive an informative answer. I will circulate a copy of this ruling to all Ministers today.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u0022e6b4dc55-3561-49a8-a871-ae005354ef90\u0022 data-id=\u00225a766a936b474f138118b0e426524187\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000024\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e6b4dc55-3561-49a8-a871-ae005354ef90\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u00225a766a936b474f138118b0e426524187\u0022\u003EHon GERRY BROWNLEE (Leader of the House):\u003C/span\u003E I raise a point of order, Mr Speaker. I am just seeking a little bit of clarification on your ruling\u2014not questioning your ruling. The question, it seems to me, is: who determines what is readily available in the public arena? The point I made yesterday was that when the questions go in for either estimates or appropriations, that information is available in the public arena, but is it considered to be readily available? It takes an awful lot of work on the part of Ministers\u2019 offices to go through and be particularly specific, in many cases. I would have thought it reasonable that there should be an equal amount of work done by those who are seeking the answer in the first place.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u00221dbd2811-8e58-4ffb-848d-31c0eaa9690a\u0022 data-id=\u0022d6a0c1b6689e4381aecff485d51db902\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000025\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00221dbd2811-8e58-4ffb-848d-31c0eaa9690a\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u0022d6a0c1b6689e4381aecff485d51db902\u0022\u003ECHRIS HIPKINS (Senior Whip\u2014Labour):\u003C/span\u003E The Leader of the House makes an interesting point. This issue also arises in relation to another ruling that you have made around the tabling of documents, where you have indicated that if documents are publicly available, then leave should not be sought to table them, and the onus is on the member seeking leave to table them to establish whether they are publicly available. This involves a similar amount of work, in some cases, to the amount of work that the Leader of the House is referring to in providing answers indicating that information is already publicly available. I think that the same principle should apply. If a Minister is going to indicate that information is publicly available, they need to actually do the work to ascertain that, in fact, it is publicly available and to give, as your ruling has indicated, a much more specific indication of where that information can be obtained.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u0022e4b09a29-dfd3-42c0-8585-11463bd6077b\u0022 data-id=\u00223ef9e2ac01ee40ae92a9fe2637f6f468\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000026\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e4b09a29-dfd3-42c0-8585-11463bd6077b\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u00223ef9e2ac01ee40ae92a9fe2637f6f468\u0022\u003EMr SPEAKER\u003C/span\u003E: I think that is exactly what I have just read out to members. If it is a reference to information that is publicly available, I expect the Minister in the answer to direct that member to where that information is easily obtainable, and that must be done with some particularity.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000027\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002207dc4112-8a19-4dd6-a57c-878b47f8a9b6\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u00221d97db5fd848464da7cf7b3a7b600a79\u0022\u003ERon Mark\u003C/span\u003E: I raise a point of order, Mr Speaker.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000028\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e4b09a29-dfd3-42c0-8585-11463bd6077b\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022dc0777a1c4e04a048ea92a69ca3c9116\u0022\u003EMr SPEAKER\u003C/span\u003E: A fresh point of order? Ron Mark\u2014a fresh point of order.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u002207dc4112-8a19-4dd6-a57c-878b47f8a9b6\u0022 data-id=\u002214acfdc966fb4b0fbf34a00809708a68\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000029\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002207dc4112-8a19-4dd6-a57c-878b47f8a9b6\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u002214acfdc966fb4b0fbf34a00809708a68\u0022\u003ERON MARK (Deputy Leader\u2014NZ First):\u003C/span\u003E Thank you for your ruling. It is an issue that has vexed us for a little while now. Can I bring to your attention and ask for you to further deliberate on\u2014and if you require some specific documentary evidence, we are quite happy to provide that for you\u2014the new trend of Ministers refusing to provide information or reports under the Official Information Act, stating that they will be releasing those reports soon, and then not releasing those reports for some 6 to 8 weeks.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u0022e6b4dc55-3561-49a8-a871-ae005354ef90\u0022 data-id=\u0022d63ec0d18da042448af0a681f4ff737b\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000030\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e6b4dc55-3561-49a8-a871-ae005354ef90\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u0022d63ec0d18da042448af0a681f4ff737b\u0022\u003EHon GERRY BROWNLEE (Leader of the House):\u003C/span\u003E I do not think the mechanism of asking a question has ever been available for any member to beat some of the genuine concerns that there will be that require some documents that will become public to remain confidential for an extended period of time. [Interruption]\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u0022e4b09a29-dfd3-42c0-8585-11463bd6077b\u0022 data-id=\u0022308377a7440e4bc99695eb5fb8e1c957\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000031\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e4b09a29-dfd3-42c0-8585-11463bd6077b\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u0022308377a7440e4bc99695eb5fb8e1c957\u0022\u003EMr SPEAKER\u003C/span\u003E: No, I do not need any further assistance on the matter. We are taking too much time here. If a Minister answers by saying the information will be available readily or shortly, I expect it to be available readily or shortly, and not delayed for 6 or 8 weeks. I would invite the member, if there are such occasions like that, to actually come and see me and mention them specifically to me. It is probably a better way forward than raising them as points of order in the House.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n    \u003C/div\u003E\n    \u003Cdiv class=\u0022HpsHansard\u0022\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000032\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsProceedingHeading\u0022 id=\u0022ad977f8e38a84eeabe38f03ee8bbcdda\u0022\u003EOral Questions\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000033\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsSubjectHeading\u0022 id=\u00227189b440ccfd46af80685dccf8a37877\u0022\u003EQuestions to Ministers\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000034\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsSubjectHeading\u0022 id=\u00220d9c07578c924f2ea5e4baac3f145122\u0022\u003EEconomic Outlook\u2014Reserve Bank and Treasury Forecasts\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u0022859e13f9-33bb-41bb-b2f0-d848eaf25407\u0022 data-id=\u002248736743f22b43d68da2d5bf5c6eeca3\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000035\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022859e13f9-33bb-41bb-b2f0-d848eaf25407\u0022\u003E1. \u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u002248736743f22b43d68da2d5bf5c6eeca3\u0022\u003EANDREW BAYLY (National\u2014Hunua)\u003C/span\u003E to the Minister of Finance: What reports has he received on the New Zealand economy?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u00224a244152-977c-48d2-bf53-4f3a369a27a9\u0022 data-id=\u002280f2eeb8f89e4b2abc52978de429f3f5\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000036\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00224a244152-977c-48d2-bf53-4f3a369a27a9\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u002280f2eeb8f89e4b2abc52978de429f3f5\u0022\u003EHon STEVEN JOYCE (Associate Minister of Finance)\u003C/span\u003E on behalf of the Minister of Finance: The Reserve Bank this morning issued its latest monetary policy statement. The Reserve Bank indicated that economic growth has slowed since its previous forecast. It now expects growth of around 2 to 2.5 percent over the next 18 months, before increasing to 3.1 percent in the year to March 2018. The bank cut interest rates from 3 percent to 2.75 percent and signalled it may cut further. The bank expects inflation to be back in the 1 to 3 percent target range early next year. Lower interest rates, of course, support businesses wanting to invest and also help households with a mortgage.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000037\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022859e13f9-33bb-41bb-b2f0-d848eaf25407\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u00223c445b9e5f5440e2a6f306d42cf9cba6\u0022\u003EAndrew Bayly\u003C/span\u003E: What are some of the drivers of the Reserve Bank\u2019s economic forecast?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000038\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00224a244152-977c-48d2-bf53-4f3a369a27a9\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u002233075c7a1b7840b98aa1b2c0fb264b7d\u0022\u003EHon STEVEN JOYCE\u003C/span\u003E: The Reserve Bank\u2019s lower growth outlook was driven in part by a softer international outlook, particularly in Asia, which has led to financial market volatility and renewed falls in some commodity prices. This has been offset to some degree by expansion in the United States. Closer to home, the Reserve Bank also outlined a number of risks\u2014in particular, the decline in export prices and lower business and consumer confidence. The bank also highlights several factors continuing to support growth domestically, including robust tourism, immigration, the large pipeline of construction activity in Auckland, and, importantly, the lower interest rates and the depreciation of the New Zealand dollar.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000039\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022859e13f9-33bb-41bb-b2f0-d848eaf25407\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022ce2084d682f4470192adeafc73b033d4\u0022\u003EAndrew Bayly\u003C/span\u003E: Given global economic uncertainty, how is a lower interest rate supporting New Zealand\u2019s economic resilience?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000040\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00224a244152-977c-48d2-bf53-4f3a369a27a9\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u00228d4cf1fdbe234eca8919499240574c9b\u0022\u003EHon STEVEN JOYCE\u003C/span\u003E: New Zealand\u2019s independent monetary policy and floating exchange rate frameworks are natural buffers from which New Zealand is now benefiting, following recent volatility in the commodity prices and increased global economic uncertainty. Rising interest rates and exchange rates in the upswing of the economic cycle lean against growth, and reductions in the interest rate and exchange rate support the economy when growth slows. For example, US dollar exports that were worth NZ$100 in July last year are now worth around NZ$140. Exporters who were forced to become more efficient when the exchange rate was US88c have reaped the rewards now the exchange rate has fallen.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000041\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022859e13f9-33bb-41bb-b2f0-d848eaf25407\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022422736347c29482c8ee1d0f99504cba2\u0022\u003EAndrew Bayly\u003C/span\u003E: What other reports has he received on the resilience of the New Zealand economy, and how does that compare internationally?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000042\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00224a244152-977c-48d2-bf53-4f3a369a27a9\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u002298f087e46c85417d954b5c6f4d4d1a8c\u0022\u003EHon STEVEN JOYCE\u003C/span\u003E: Treasury has collated a list of which countries have, firstly, a broadly balanced Government budget; secondly, have net debt less than 40 percent of GDP; thirdly, have economic growth greater than 1.5 percent; and, fourthly, have scope to further cut interest rates should the economic situation worsen. New Zealand meets all of those criteria, and is in fact doing considerably better in some of them. There are only four other OECD countries in the world that meet those criteria. The others are Australia, Norway, Iceland, and South Korea. So by those measures the economy is well placed to deal with any turbulence in the international economy.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000043\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsSubjectHeading\u0022 id=\u00220c87a22c511e487c99e0120c1858f4c5\u0022\u003EHealth System\u2014Funding\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u002209a5b71a-ca7e-4e7c-9e09-f9e63f18aa12\u0022 data-id=\u0022f98659c3559046f9a1cabd2df4cb7134\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000044\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002209a5b71a-ca7e-4e7c-9e09-f9e63f18aa12\u0022\u003E2. \u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u0022f98659c3559046f9a1cabd2df4cb7134\u0022\u003EHon ANNETTE KING (Deputy Leader\u2014Labour)\u003C/span\u003E to the Minister of Health: Why did he say on 29 July that core Crown health expenditure covers \u201Cmost, but not all, inflationary pressures\u201D, and why does he deny this shortfall is having an impact on patients?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u0022603ae58e-47c4-46f9-bfc8-8355a48988ad\u0022 data-id=\u00224500071782004ce8b4ad7fc6df0193ed\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000045\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022603ae58e-47c4-46f9-bfc8-8355a48988ad\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u00224500071782004ce8b4ad7fc6df0193ed\u0022\u003EHon Dr JONATHAN COLEMAN (Minister of Health):\u003C/span\u003E Because the Government is delivering 50,000 more elective operations, 60,000 more surgical appointments, 50,000 more medical appointments, faster cancer care, 5,500 more doctors and nurses, and free GP visits and prescriptions for 750,000 children. The big picture is that everyone knows that patients are getting more health services under National\u2019s stewardship. The real question is why the member continues to deny that.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000046\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002209a5b71a-ca7e-4e7c-9e09-f9e63f18aa12\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022efa5825b6d834215b2c57464e6da54b2\u0022\u003EHon Annette King\u003C/span\u003E: What was his response to the Rotorua GP who wrote to him this week outlining his horror at the refusal of a specialist appointment for his patient with an enlarged prostate, because the specialist could not see the patient within the required time limit, something the GP called \u201Ca schizophrenic approach\u201D?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000047\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022603ae58e-47c4-46f9-bfc8-8355a48988ad\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u00227904ce8d34f24858a87fdad0d9327479\u0022\u003EHon Dr JONATHAN COLEMAN\u003C/span\u003E: I read that letter last night, and I think the GP may have a bit of a misunderstanding of how the sector works, so I am writing back to him at the moment to discuss how we can best manage that prostate patient\u2019s needs.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000048\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002209a5b71a-ca7e-4e7c-9e09-f9e63f18aa12\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022228bb63c0a47486c901cbbaff9fa34c1\u0022\u003EHon Annette King\u003C/span\u003E: If the Minister has read the GP from Rotorua\u2019s letter, did he note that the doctor says that this is not the only case he has had, that it is now happening on a regular basis, and that he describes the situation as \u201Cvery serious\u201D and \u201Ca scandal\u201D?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000049\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022603ae58e-47c4-46f9-bfc8-8355a48988ad\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022dd6b6a60cedd497faf8ac413f7967184\u0022\u003EHon Dr JONATHAN COLEMAN\u003C/span\u003E: Yes, I did read those comments, I noted them, and I am writing back to the GP.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000050\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002209a5b71a-ca7e-4e7c-9e09-f9e63f18aa12\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022da42e44b41834a09abf1fac7a63eae8c\u0022\u003EHon Annette King\u003C/span\u003E: Do you agree?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000051\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e4b09a29-dfd3-42c0-8585-11463bd6077b\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022916d0b9e075c4d0590c572ae5b59af7b\u0022\u003EMr SPEAKER\u003C/span\u003E: Order! No, I do not agree. I do not necessarily agree, but do not bring me into the debate.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000052\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002209a5b71a-ca7e-4e7c-9e09-f9e63f18aa12\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u002230a3976413cb4da6825adf542e85df66\u0022\u003EHon Annette King\u003C/span\u003E: If there is sufficient funding, why has an 85-year-old man who lives alone and finds household chores very difficult had his home help reduced from 1 hour a week to 1 hour a fortnight to save the district health board money?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000053\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022603ae58e-47c4-46f9-bfc8-8355a48988ad\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022ad47e12b9b9a4fcda0fe428541516fe2\u0022\u003EHon Dr JONATHAN COLEMAN\u003C/span\u003E: I am not familiar with that particular case, but if the member would like to forward the details, I am very happy to look into it. As she has said before, it is better to help patients rather than to use them, as she continually does.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000054\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002209a5b71a-ca7e-4e7c-9e09-f9e63f18aa12\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022c979bd8d0e8c4018958f572849bd457b\u0022\u003EHon Annette King\u003C/span\u003E: Why, if everything is as good as he claims, has the district health board written to this elderly man saying that demand is outgrowing available funding, which means that cuts have to be made, and it looks like it is going to be the old people affected first?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000055\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022603ae58e-47c4-46f9-bfc8-8355a48988ad\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022fd0d88c831334b06bafb6547fd6846e7\u0022\u003EHon Dr JONATHAN COLEMAN\u003C/span\u003E: I have not seen that letter. I doubt that those are the words that have been used. But do not forget: this member has been publicly very supportive of health decisions made since the election. She supported the replacement of Health Benefits Ltd, she supported the commissioner in the Southern District Health Board, she supports free GP visits for under-13s, she supports more surgery, and she has even stated publicly that she thinks that, overall, we have got a very good health system and that it is working well.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000056\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002209a5b71a-ca7e-4e7c-9e09-f9e63f18aa12\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u00221462c6119f274372ba658dc1f09a6ce3\u0022\u003EHon Annette King\u003C/span\u003E: I seek leave to table a letter from MidCentral District Health Board dated 24 August 2015 saying that demand for these services\u2014\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000057\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e4b09a29-dfd3-42c0-8585-11463bd6077b\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022961d77315e764671bb63c1ba0e329474\u0022\u003EMr SPEAKER\u003C/span\u003E: Order! There is no need to further describe the document. Leave is sought to table that particular letter from MidCentral District Health Board. Is there any objection? There is none; it can be tabled.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000058\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=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000059\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002209a5b71a-ca7e-4e7c-9e09-f9e63f18aa12\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022ff4dbc3f275c4950ad1dca53aaf64bab\u0022\u003EHon Annette King\u003C/span\u003E: Why should an elderly woman living alone who has multiple disabilities have her home help cut from 1 hour a week to 1 hour a fortnight on the grounds that it will assist people to stay in their own homes longer, something the woman has called \u201Can affront to the elderly\u201D?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000060\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022603ae58e-47c4-46f9-bfc8-8355a48988ad\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022f37f22723b7d400b89e67ea048b06756\u0022\u003EHon Dr JONATHAN COLEMAN\u003C/span\u003E: I am not familiar with that case, but what I know is that back in 2006 the Labour Government took 367 people off home care in Wanganui in one fell swoop, and then it did the same straight again in 2007. So I think that might make the member look a little bit\u2014[Interruption]\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000061\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e4b09a29-dfd3-42c0-8585-11463bd6077b\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u00228942271233784e49b174f830b1b7c2b1\u0022\u003EMr SPEAKER\u003C/span\u003E: Order! [Interruption] Order! The Minister can resume his seat. [Interruption] Order!\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000062\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00225f1453f8-c44e-4ce6-b699-64d600322276\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022544327879ce74179a54f50acf7ae96d5\u0022\u003EHon Chester Borrows\u003C/span\u003E: I raise a point of order, Mr Speaker. There was absolutely no way that we could hear the answer that the Minister gave to that last supplementary question. I would like the House to have the benefit of hearing that answer. [Interruption] \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000063\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e4b09a29-dfd3-42c0-8585-11463bd6077b\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u00220fa650b51d8e47cebe6cedbf8439d6ad\u0022\u003EMr SPEAKER\u003C/span\u003E: Order! No, I need no further assistance. There was a very significant interjection during that point of order. If I could identify that person, I would be asking that person to leave. I do not need any assistance from Grant Robertson. [Interruption] Order! The question was answered right at the start; the Minister then went on with further answering that did incite a fair reaction from the Opposition side. That is not an excuse for the reaction from that side, but that is certainly what occurred. Both sides need to settle down with their answering if there are further supplementary questions.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000064\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002209a5b71a-ca7e-4e7c-9e09-f9e63f18aa12\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u002290ef72d6e0b645f6948e677c960e6381\u0022\u003EHon Annette King\u003C/span\u003E: Why does he keep saying that there is sufficient funding in district health boards when thousands of letters like this one are sent to patients every week saying that district health boards are able to take only limited referrals that are the most urgent?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000065\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022603ae58e-47c4-46f9-bfc8-8355a48988ad\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u002251a7d938def0469b9f9d50d2897af0b2\u0022\u003EHon Dr JONATHAN COLEMAN\u003C/span\u003E: Nothing has changed for decades. District health boards have had to prioritise the most urgent patients, and we are doing more all the time\u2014more operations, more appointments, and better cancer care. We are actually doing a lot more than the previous Labour Government was doing. The answer to unmet need is actually to do more, which we are doing. That is the simple answer.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000066\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002209a5b71a-ca7e-4e7c-9e09-f9e63f18aa12\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u00228526391261a84b388276505ae9047ecc\u0022\u003EHon Annette King\u003C/span\u003E: I seek leave to table a letter from Hutt Valley District Health Board dated 15 March 2015, pointing out what I said\u2014\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000067\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e4b09a29-dfd3-42c0-8585-11463bd6077b\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u00222843c0c5c0154c38822a4e42c29dccda\u0022\u003EMr SPEAKER\u003C/span\u003E: Order! Leave is sought to table that particular letter. Is there any objection? There is none. It can be tabled.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000068\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=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000069\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsSubjectHeading\u0022 id=\u0022ebbbeae78eea4bdb8b89e42661437bb1\u0022\u003EColonoscopies\u2014Statistics\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u0022861a1798-a396-4a6c-b9e2-7d2f15d4a001\u0022 data-id=\u00223f24743712aa4dfa901b2d49b2464aca\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000070\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022861a1798-a396-4a6c-b9e2-7d2f15d4a001\u0022\u003E3. \u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u00223f24743712aa4dfa901b2d49b2464aca\u0022\u003EDr SHANE RETI (National\u2014Whangarei)\u003C/span\u003E to the Minister of Health: Can he confirm that 36,076 colonoscopies were performed in the last financial year, a 12 percent increase on the year before?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u0022603ae58e-47c4-46f9-bfc8-8355a48988ad\u0022 data-id=\u002253b29033ee2f4dcba091f56c436034c4\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000071\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022603ae58e-47c4-46f9-bfc8-8355a48988ad\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u002253b29033ee2f4dcba091f56c436034c4\u0022\u003EHon Dr JONATHAN COLEMAN (Minister of Health):\u003C/span\u003E Yes, I can. The number of colonoscopies performed in the 2014-15 financial year rose by 12 percent on the previous year, up from 32,324 to 36,076. Additionally, the percentage of urgent colonoscopies being performed within the 14-day target increased from 55 percent in June 2014 to 75 percent in June 2015. This improvement shows that real progress is being made, and further projects are under way in district health boards to increase the number of patients being seen.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000072\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022861a1798-a396-4a6c-b9e2-7d2f15d4a001\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022b1388120232b4e408007c39023563a54\u0022\u003EDr Shane Reti\u003C/span\u003E: How is this increased volume of colonoscopies helping develop a possible roll-out of the national bowel screening programme?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000073\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022603ae58e-47c4-46f9-bfc8-8355a48988ad\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u002260f890a4bfb04df4aa1057c7cb4b7c22\u0022\u003EHon Dr JONATHAN COLEMAN\u003C/span\u003E: District health boards have been provided with additional funding to provide more colonoscopies, and we are working hard to boost the endoscopy workforce by increasing training and technology. The Ministry of Health is consulting with the sector on the next steps towards a possible national bowel screening programme. Already, more than 6,000 people have received a colonoscopy through the Waitemat\u0101 District Health Board\u2019s bowel screening pilot. Budget 2015 invested $12.4 million in extending the pilot to December 2017. Do not forget: Labour said that this was a priority, but over 9 years it did not put a single dollar into it.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000074\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsSubjectHeading\u0022 id=\u00222c4a63c99e2f4690a9b12e20cf6d1991\u0022\u003EEmployment Relations\u2014Zero-hour Contracts\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u0022919a8e8d-afaf-4342-ad6f-71cbb6024544\u0022 data-id=\u00221e86a18297ba485db622b8cc228efa08\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000075\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022919a8e8d-afaf-4342-ad6f-71cbb6024544\u0022\u003E4. \u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u00221e86a18297ba485db622b8cc228efa08\u0022\u003ECLAYTON MITCHELL (NZ First)\u003C/span\u003E to the Minister for Workplace Relations and Safety: Does he stand by all his statements?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u0022c83012b4-3939-4753-80fc-1956a3e2bd1e\u0022 data-id=\u0022d5a188b8715b4402ab7c904931593ee7\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000076\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022c83012b4-3939-4753-80fc-1956a3e2bd1e\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u0022d5a188b8715b4402ab7c904931593ee7\u0022\u003EHon MICHAEL WOODHOUSE (Minister for Workplace Relations and Safety):\u003C/span\u003E Yes, I do, and I particularly stand by my statement earlier this week announcing that parents of preterm babies will be entitled to receive additional weekly payments for each week their baby was born prior to the 37-week gestation period. I want to acknowledge Mr Seymour of the ACT Party for his advocacy and the very good outcome for preterm parents.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000077\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022919a8e8d-afaf-4342-ad6f-71cbb6024544\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022b08b7832c2434ea38023be83d720f064\u0022\u003EClayton Mitchell\u003C/span\u003E: Does the Minister stand by his statement in relation to zero-hour contracts on 12 July that it \u201Cis unfair and makes it difficult for employees to plan their financial and personal lives.\u201D; if so, why?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000078\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022c83012b4-3939-4753-80fc-1956a3e2bd1e\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022789d4e00623c46358bd6126932dabac1\u0022\u003EHon MICHAEL WOODHOUSE\u003C/span\u003E: In answer to the first part of that question, absolutely yes.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000079\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022919a8e8d-afaf-4342-ad6f-71cbb6024544\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022d2b5d2fddadc4d6c829a4d41d075fdbc\u0022\u003EClayton Mitchell\u003C/span\u003E: Is a job advertisement that reads \u201CHours will fluctuate. There is no guaranteed minimum number of hours per week.\u201D something he would consider unfair for a job seeker; if so, why?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000080\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022c83012b4-3939-4753-80fc-1956a3e2bd1e\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022b696b84614c74036a37feebc3d513197\u0022\u003EHon MICHAEL WOODHOUSE\u003C/span\u003E: No, I would not consider that to be unfair, nor would I consider it to be what is popularly known as a zero-hour contract. That would be a casual agreement where there are no mutual obligations on either the employer or the employee regarding specific hours of work. Those types of agreements have been in New Zealand\u2019s employment relations landscape for a very long time. The zero-hour agreements are not going to change that.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000081\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022919a8e8d-afaf-4342-ad6f-71cbb6024544\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u00222c0ed74476324e48b1a1214f80013097\u0022\u003EClayton Mitchell\u003C/span\u003E: Is he aware that this Government currently employs Customs Service officers on variable-hour contracts, which is what the job advertisement I read in my previous supplementary question was for; if not, why not?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000082\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e4b09a29-dfd3-42c0-8585-11463bd6077b\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022b6186ed2a77f4eff93350a88dd441a15\u0022\u003EMr SPEAKER\u003C/span\u003E: The Hon Michael Woodhouse\u2014either of those two supplementary questions.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000083\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022c83012b4-3939-4753-80fc-1956a3e2bd1e\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022ebd1c9dfc7ba436f9b6f6443cae1e25e\u0022\u003EHon MICHAEL WOODHOUSE\u003C/span\u003E: I refer the member to my previous supplementary answer. The important aspect of the unfair agreements that people describe as zero-hour contracts is where there is an obligation on one party but not on the other. The circumstances you describe would be either a casual agreement or an agreement for part-time hours with the opportunity to pick up other hours in the future.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000084\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022919a8e8d-afaf-4342-ad6f-71cbb6024544\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u002213733a3109b541c495a79a12cddac482\u0022\u003EClayton Mitchell\u003C/span\u003E: No, that\u2019s not true.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000085\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022c83012b4-3939-4753-80fc-1956a3e2bd1e\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022dc4c0b138d6546b0bd855ea6b3daa5ff\u0022\u003EHon MICHAEL WOODHOUSE\u003C/span\u003E: Well, if it is not true, then they would be casual agreements.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000086\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022919a8e8d-afaf-4342-ad6f-71cbb6024544\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022118e0ad3e3324962bcd889c294f3503e\u0022\u003EClayton Mitchell\u003C/span\u003E: I seek leave to table a document that was sent through to our office this morning, an advertisement\u2014\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000087\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e4b09a29-dfd3-42c0-8585-11463bd6077b\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022db433ade5dfb442db7da2b61ba5485fa\u0022\u003EMr SPEAKER\u003C/span\u003E: Order! [Interruption] Order! The member will resume his seat. If it is an advertisement, I would imagine that they will have put it in the papers, so it is available to all members if they want it.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000088\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022919a8e8d-afaf-4342-ad6f-71cbb6024544\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022685b8a58eaa54ddc8499f0566219b1e2\u0022\u003EClayton Mitchell\u003C/span\u003E: I raise a point of order, Mr Speaker.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000089\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e4b09a29-dfd3-42c0-8585-11463bd6077b\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022bdc1957c5e6b4332bc747412798f8e10\u0022\u003EMr SPEAKER\u003C/span\u003E: A further point of order?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000090\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022919a8e8d-afaf-4342-ad6f-71cbb6024544\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022db0fd92a89454960a77ae676147f01dc\u0022\u003EClayton Mitchell\u003C/span\u003E: Just speaking to that point of order\u2014\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000091\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e4b09a29-dfd3-42c0-8585-11463bd6077b\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022267e2a9c653a491cb369ba342822adab\u0022\u003EMr SPEAKER\u003C/span\u003E: I will hear from the member, very briefly.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000092\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022919a8e8d-afaf-4342-ad6f-71cbb6024544\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u00224ae985934b1a4957b171b7f722aaed96\u0022\u003EClayton Mitchell\u003C/span\u003E: It is not very easily available. It was from 2014. This cannot actually be found. It was actually sent through by a member\u2014\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000093\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e4b09a29-dfd3-42c0-8585-11463bd6077b\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022c0d8c49f86f64c0a8f95d4af3c079201\u0022\u003EMr SPEAKER\u003C/span\u003E: Order! I will be in a generous mood on a Thursday. I will put the leave to table this particular advertisement. Is there any objection? There is objection.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000094\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022919a8e8d-afaf-4342-ad6f-71cbb6024544\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u00220f8f78ecf59a424daf5d287054d56b02\u0022\u003EClayton Mitchell\u003C/span\u003E: Is he aware that currently zero-hour contracts are of dubious legality, and yet under his Government\u2019s proposed Employment Standards Legislation Bill these zero-hour contracts will be legitimised?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000095\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022c83012b4-3939-4753-80fc-1956a3e2bd1e\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u00228a618ac379894dd88f95c6f81157a81f\u0022\u003EHon MICHAEL WOODHOUSE\u003C/span\u003E: I reject the member\u2019s question on two parts. Firstly, the description of the advertisement that he has just read out is not a zero-hours contract. It would probably be a casual agreement. And, no, we will be banning the things that people describe as zero-hours contracts through the Employment Standards Legislation Bill.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000096\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsSubjectHeading\u0022 id=\u00220c98208a5125482783dda46069124ecc\u0022\u003EEconomic Outlook\u2014Risks\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u00226007dc96-f459-4cdd-9972-4fde2c994088\u0022 data-id=\u0022b48b74695c294c31a0749c828d76e971\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000097\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00226007dc96-f459-4cdd-9972-4fde2c994088\u0022\u003E5. \u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u0022b48b74695c294c31a0749c828d76e971\u0022\u003EGRANT ROBERTSON (Labour\u2014Wellington Central)\u003C/span\u003E to the Minister of Finance: Does he stand by all his statements?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u00224a244152-977c-48d2-bf53-4f3a369a27a9\u0022 data-id=\u0022f091a75798c1480c968fbc6288f724a5\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000098\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00224a244152-977c-48d2-bf53-4f3a369a27a9\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u0022f091a75798c1480c968fbc6288f724a5\u0022\u003EHon STEVEN JOYCE (Associate Minister of Finance)\u003C/span\u003E on behalf of the Minister of Finance: Yes, in the context in which they were made.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000099\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00226007dc96-f459-4cdd-9972-4fde2c994088\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u002277ec2ae1bac44c338545b25cfdb5f50c\u0022\u003EGrant Robertson\u003C/span\u003E: Does he stand by his statement that the Government has \u201Cleft nothing \u2018undone\u2019 to tackle skyrocketing house prices in Auckland\u201D, given the Reserve Bank Governor\u2019s call today for more to be done to address the lack of supply in the Auckland housing market?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000100\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00224a244152-977c-48d2-bf53-4f3a369a27a9\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u00221ba7abe3cf50474584346601d2158a4d\u0022\u003EHon STEVEN JOYCE\u003C/span\u003E: If the member has been paying attention, the Government is working very hard on the Auckland housing market in areas such as combating speculators who are not meeting their tax requirements, with bills which, I think, are currently before the House at the moment. There is also the work that is being done very much on lifting housing supply with special housing areas. In fact, housing supply more generally is at its highest level in just over a decade.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000101\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022cbc37df2-57ae-4536-94ed-a2e39eecd585\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u00228187d8bf8b624b6ebb8d4a1a2ce84b31\u0022\u003EPhil Twyford\u003C/span\u003E: Where are those houses?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000102\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00224a244152-977c-48d2-bf53-4f3a369a27a9\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022c09768b625254f58a6b228701d3c61b8\u0022\u003EHon STEVEN JOYCE\u003C/span\u003E: A lot of work going\u2014as I just said, the highest level of construction in just over a decade. Also we have very significant investments going on in the social housing area. I think we are seeing a very significant housing response, and I note that the Reserve Bank Governor also notes very high levels of construction activity in Auckland currently.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000103\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00226007dc96-f459-4cdd-9972-4fde2c994088\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022b6f47b5e4cb74e868d01640e23dd364e\u0022\u003EGrant Robertson\u003C/span\u003E: In light of that answer, was the Reserve Bank Governor wrong when he told the Finance and Expenditure Committee less than an hour ago that the Auckland housing market is in dangerous territory?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000104\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00224a244152-977c-48d2-bf53-4f3a369a27a9\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u00220e1bb3ca4c3f4f119b6bae5c22ac86d3\u0022\u003EHon STEVEN JOYCE\u003C/span\u003E: Not necessarily at all, and I think that it is important for people to understand that if they are buying houses, you actually can pay too much for a house, and there are risks because although interest rates are very low at the moment, they do not stay low for ever and people generally stay paying off their houses for a very long time. So I think it is appropriate for the Reserve Bank Governor to make comments about housing prices in Auckland, because people do not want to make the decisions to pay too much. But in terms of the Government\u2019s supply response, it is the highest level of construction\u2014\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000105\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022cbc37df2-57ae-4536-94ed-a2e39eecd585\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022054ed5f443354a758ad0fa99e1a60f7a\u0022\u003EPhil Twyford\u003C/span\u003E: Since the GFC.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000106\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00224a244152-977c-48d2-bf53-4f3a369a27a9\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022b821e774ca93406bb514e7dfad1476c5\u0022\u003EHon STEVEN JOYCE\u003C/span\u003E: \u2014since 2004, Mr Twyford.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000107\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00226007dc96-f459-4cdd-9972-4fde2c994088\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022e1c33240be8f442489c7b017a39467fb\u0022\u003EGrant Robertson\u003C/span\u003E: Is the Auckland housing market in dangerous territory?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000108\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00224a244152-977c-48d2-bf53-4f3a369a27a9\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022786cd3ef29ce4cd78bde217223c6110a\u0022\u003EHon STEVEN JOYCE\u003C/span\u003E: I am not going to paraphrase the Reserve Bank Governor\u2019s comments. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000109\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00226007dc96-f459-4cdd-9972-4fde2c994088\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u00221a0a2bf3a231466c87f3c992c2b1933c\u0022\u003EGrant Robertson\u003C/span\u003E: No, I\u2019m asking you.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000110\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00224a244152-977c-48d2-bf53-4f3a369a27a9\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022f0dc119840e64e8ab25a66427c28c27d\u0022\u003EHon STEVEN JOYCE\u003C/span\u003E: My response to that on behalf of the Minister of Finance is that there is a very significant supply response in Auckland, but people do need to be careful about paying too much for houses in Auckland, and therefore they should be concerned.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000111\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00226007dc96-f459-4cdd-9972-4fde2c994088\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022eebacf0dc1bf41baacfecfe2ec26efca\u0022\u003EGrant Robertson\u003C/span\u003E: I raise a point of order, Mr Speaker. That was an extremely direct question, which the Minister did not address\u2014\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000112\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e6b4dc55-3561-49a8-a871-ae005354ef90\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u002216999559b7e74e4fb0d1e0f4c6ab9e9b\u0022\u003EHon Gerry Brownlee\u003C/span\u003E: He said: \u201CI\u2019m not going to\u201D.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000113\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00226007dc96-f459-4cdd-9972-4fde2c994088\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022bf67f04e840b45c9a45187594361156d\u0022\u003EGrant Robertson\u003C/span\u003E: No, he said he is not going to\u2014\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000114\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e4b09a29-dfd3-42c0-8585-11463bd6077b\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022acf5c8d65b514897be7180961ef9d34a\u0022\u003EMr SPEAKER\u003C/span\u003E: Order! [Interruption] Order! Can I just ask the member to have a look at Speakers\u2019 Rulings, particularly 187(4). It might assist him before raising such a point of order. Further supplementary questions? Supplementary question, Grant Robertson\u2014[Interruption] Order! Order on my right-hand side. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000115\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00226007dc96-f459-4cdd-9972-4fde2c994088\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u00224117e714d21e4a36a28d0d48062ea2eb\u0022\u003EGrant Robertson\u003C/span\u003E: Laurel and Hardy are a bit upset. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000116\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e4b09a29-dfd3-42c0-8585-11463bd6077b\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u00224d4cc0a45e7a4e58a78c75f37fa91674\u0022\u003EMr SPEAKER\u003C/span\u003E: Order! That is the sort of interjection that is totally unnecessary, and I invite the member to stand and withdraw that remark.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000117\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00226007dc96-f459-4cdd-9972-4fde2c994088\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022773b84f58f4d448f87c531873c9e75fb\u0022\u003EGrant Robertson\u003C/span\u003E: I withdraw. [Interruption] Ha, ha! Is he concerned about the level of debt being carried by New Zealand dairy farmers given that it has increased from $12 billion in 2003 to $35 billion today, and that dairy debt now accounts for 10 percent of our trading banks\u2019 assets?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000118\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00224a244152-977c-48d2-bf53-4f3a369a27a9\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u002236c4d778b8ad4cfeb62a89697906c20b\u0022\u003EHon STEVEN JOYCE\u003C/span\u003E: I am not sure that I would look to relate the 2003 levels to today\u2019s levels because, actually, there has been a very significant increase in the size of the industry over that period and a very significant increase in production. I note that the general consensus is that those levels are not of concern, but obviously, in their approach to increasing further debt at this point, I think all farmers will be very responsible about that. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000119\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00226007dc96-f459-4cdd-9972-4fde2c994088\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022be15fe4f783e4fe8beefb41cf7118b06\u0022\u003EGrant Robertson\u003C/span\u003E: Does he agree with the Reserve Bank Governor that a continuation of the downturn in China and having El Ni\u00F1o stretch further into the summer would lead New Zealand into recession, particularly noting NIWA\u2019s view that there is a 80 percent likelihood of El Ni\u00F1o carrying on into the summer?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000120\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00224a244152-977c-48d2-bf53-4f3a369a27a9\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u002278a386113047467bb86b55c1e3cd5bcc\u0022\u003EHon STEVEN JOYCE\u003C/span\u003E: I do not think that the Reserve Bank Governor actually couched it in those terms. He was asked about things that could potentially cause a recession, and there are things that could cause concerns. One of those could be a prolonged El Ni\u00F1o, and there is another one that could be China, but I do not think that he was talking about them in particular as leading to those things. The good news is that the New Zealand economy is very resilient and we have the capacity to adapt and respond, and that is what we are actually seeing right now, in combination with both the changes to the exchange rate and the changes to the interest rates, and, of course, the Government has the continued opportunity to provide a fiscal response, given that our books are in balance. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000121\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00226007dc96-f459-4cdd-9972-4fde2c994088\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022f398df42f36e4efc95884a2664a3df2a\u0022\u003EGrant Robertson\u003C/span\u003E: How concerned is he then that the statement in his Budget in May that unemployment would drop below 5 percent has turned out to be completely wrong, with the Reserve Bank joining Treasury today in predicting that unemployment will go over 6 percent and stay there for some time?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000122\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00224a244152-977c-48d2-bf53-4f3a369a27a9\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u00221492d35932f64dc1beea6cb90a2b9441\u0022\u003EHon STEVEN JOYCE\u003C/span\u003E: I did not read it as saying that it would go over 6 percent and stay there for some time. Actually, it said that it would reach 6 percent, which is not necessarily a surprise given that we are currently at 5.9 percent. Obviously we are all keen for that to continue to come down. The way to do that is to encourage more investment in the New Zealand economy and in a range of industries, and that is what this Government is doing. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000123\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsSubjectHeading\u0022 id=\u00221a66444814af4c6f8099516c736d8e74\u0022\u003EKiwifruit Industry\u2014Exports\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u0022fdb01002-a7cf-4a77-8f05-678d24a36849\u0022 data-id=\u002281e1475e6d57437199e1074c97fca969\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000124\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022fdb01002-a7cf-4a77-8f05-678d24a36849\u0022\u003E6. \u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u002281e1475e6d57437199e1074c97fca969\u0022\u003ETODD MULLER (National\u2014Bay of Plenty)\u003C/span\u003E to the Minister for Primary Industries: What recent reports has he received on growth in kiwifruit exports?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u002223de6bd3-0482-495d-88f4-7cc3f75d8442\u0022 data-id=\u00223b25433cc3ff4496bf05540a1eef7872\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000125\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002223de6bd3-0482-495d-88f4-7cc3f75d8442\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u00223b25433cc3ff4496bf05540a1eef7872\u0022\u003EHon NATHAN GUY (Minister for Primary Industries):\u003C/span\u003E Recent reports show that Zespri\u2019s total New Zealand - grown fruit and service payments are up 17 percent this year, to $939 million. The volumes of New Zealand - grown kiwifruit sales are up 11 percent, to over $95 million trays, and global kiwifruit sales are up 16 percent, to over $1.5 billion. Kiwifruit orchard prices are now higher than they were pre-Psa, and kiwifruit volumes are forecast to increase by about 36 percent, to 130 million trays in 2019-20. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000126\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022fdb01002-a7cf-4a77-8f05-678d24a36849\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u002267ee58bca4b04a6495595e39231a05a3\u0022\u003ETodd Muller\u003C/span\u003E: What is the Government doing to help support this growth in the kiwifruit industry?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000127\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002223de6bd3-0482-495d-88f4-7cc3f75d8442\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u00221c4234c407ec44418a6039ac2d420c7e\u0022\u003EHon NATHAN GUY\u003C/span\u003E: The Government will continue to support the kiwifruit industry through research and development and by enabling greater market access. The Government has committed $25 million, in partnership with the kiwifruit industry, to assist with managing the impact of Psa, including new research. Under the Korean free-trade agreement, kiwifruit exporters will have duty-free access to the Korean market 5 years after its entry into force. New Zealand\u2019s kiwifruit exporters paid over $20 million in duties last year. Through our trade deal with Chinese Taipei, all duties on kiwifruit will be eliminated over the first 3 years, with an estimated annual duty saving of nearly $15 million.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000128\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsSubjectHeading\u0022 id=\u00229904b3cf9afd484aa47f286acadb1847\u0022\u003EFlag\u2014Design Process\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u0022aa2209f1-1889-4c24-b51d-cb2aedc7aa93\u0022 data-id=\u002212165b1ac81d431b91f1cf558f730e4d\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000129\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022aa2209f1-1889-4c24-b51d-cb2aedc7aa93\u0022\u003E7. \u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u002212165b1ac81d431b91f1cf558f730e4d\u0022\u003EJACINDA ARDERN (Labour)\u003C/span\u003E to the Minister for Arts, Culture and Heritage: Was she, as Minister for Arts, Culture and Heritage, consulted during the flag design process, and is she satisfied with the outcome as one of the responsible Ministers?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u002292824476-4e66-4052-8435-b049833d8b83\u0022 data-id=\u0022d0dd35093a6548eeb0496a572a71b2f3\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000130\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002292824476-4e66-4052-8435-b049833d8b83\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u0022d0dd35093a6548eeb0496a572a71b2f3\u0022\u003EHon NICKY WAGNER (Minister of Customs) \u003C/span\u003Eon behalf of the Minister for Arts, Culture and Heritage: No, the Minister was not consulted during the flag design process, which was deliberately kept at arm\u2019s length from Ministers to ensure its independence. The Flag Consideration Panel was established to conduct an independent process to engage with New Zealanders about alternative flag designs and to choose four to appear on the ballot paper for the first referendum. Yes, the Minister is satisfied with the outcome. The Flag Consideration Panel has undertaken its work conscientiously and chosen what it considers the four best alternative flag designs.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000131\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022aa2209f1-1889-4c24-b51d-cb2aedc7aa93\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u00228608171288c24526b837fd1bb6723129\u0022\u003EJacinda Ardern\u003C/span\u003E: Did she, as Minister for Arts, Culture and Heritage, recommend any designers or artists for the Flag Consideration Panel; if so, whom?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000132\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002292824476-4e66-4052-8435-b049833d8b83\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022195053913820416bbdbd4aef5bba1ca1\u0022\u003EHon NICKY WAGNER\u003C/span\u003E: No. The Flag Consideration Panel included New Zealanders with a variety of backgrounds and areas of expertise, and they took advice from designers.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000133\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022aa2209f1-1889-4c24-b51d-cb2aedc7aa93\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u002214732fce7f3f4aadba1e95f1a283e364\u0022\u003EJacinda Ardern\u003C/span\u003E: Did she recommend anyone for the Flag Selection Advisory Group, a group that included the creative director from Nike; if so, whom?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000134\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002292824476-4e66-4052-8435-b049833d8b83\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u002263cd015811d740529b0064d1939ce8d6\u0022\u003EHon NICKY WAGNER\u003C/span\u003E: As I am not the Minister concerned, I am unable to answer that question.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000135\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022aa2209f1-1889-4c24-b51d-cb2aedc7aa93\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u002283ee25d34a55440085bd7a779c2b2259\u0022\u003EJacinda Ardern\u003C/span\u003E: What is her response to those who have called for the Red Peak option to be included in the referendum? \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000136\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002292824476-4e66-4052-8435-b049833d8b83\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u002292c83bc06e3e40cca06780dc8885911d\u0022\u003EHon NICKY WAGNER\u003C/span\u003E: On behalf of the Minister for Arts, Culture and Heritage\u2014[Interruption]\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000137\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e4b09a29-dfd3-42c0-8585-11463bd6077b\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u002252ab036e892944248c9f0a47bbddbf6a\u0022\u003EMr SPEAKER\u003C/span\u003E: There is a fair bit of noise coming from many parts of the House. Could the Minister start her answer again.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000138\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002292824476-4e66-4052-8435-b049833d8b83\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u00224585ee1952894c1995facae565ef0077\u0022\u003EHon NICKY WAGNER\u003C/span\u003E: There has been a robust process involving public input, and I am satisfied with the outcome. Red Peak was considered by the panel, along with a number of other designs, and the panel made its decision on the final shortlist. I am interested to see that the UMR Research poll of 1,000 New Zealanders ranked the Red Peak flag 37th out of 40\u2014nearly the worst.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000139\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022aa2209f1-1889-4c24-b51d-cb2aedc7aa93\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022510398eb7d34441ba2c08f72abba2b70\u0022\u003EJacinda Ardern\u003C/span\u003E: As the Minister who has apparently taken an objective view, and in light of her role as Minister responsible for World War I commemorations, did she\u2014\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000140\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e6b4dc55-3561-49a8-a871-ae005354ef90\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022844e7e20c80141d8bf1fd329f4621636\u0022\u003EHon Gerry Brownlee\u003C/span\u003E: I raise a point of order, Mr Speaker. The shadow Leader of the House has been very assiduous in the last couple of days in making sure that you considered answers to questions. That was completely out of order as a question. It does not meet any of the tests of the Standing Orders. It could easily be brought into line without the extra bits that were thrown into the middle.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000141\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e4b09a29-dfd3-42c0-8585-11463bd6077b\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022b6f25d7768254630ab2fe51f2f43ca72\u0022\u003EMr SPEAKER\u003C/span\u003E: On this occasion the Minister, the Hon Gerry Brownlee, is absolutely right. Can I ask the member to rephrase her question consistent with the Standing Orders, without the lead-in, which is causing some disruption.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000142\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00221dbd2811-8e58-4ffb-848d-31c0eaa9690a\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u002229932f76a1fb49ff8af3ea1d2c3d4308\u0022\u003EChris Hipkins\u003C/span\u003E: I raise a point of order, Mr Speaker\u2014\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000143\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e4b09a29-dfd3-42c0-8585-11463bd6077b\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u00226c3385ca6ab946bbb996f00f18571186\u0022\u003EMr SPEAKER\u003C/span\u003E: I hope the member is not in any way questioning where we have just got to.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000144\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00221dbd2811-8e58-4ffb-848d-31c0eaa9690a\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022dff6ecf87a6d4d95ab21ad019151f659\u0022\u003EChris Hipkins\u003C/span\u003E: No, I am not questioning that particular ruling. I am simply asking for consistency. You will note that Andrew Bayly, in his question today, began with a preamble for a Government patsy question. The same ruling must apply to all sides of the House.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000145\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e4b09a29-dfd3-42c0-8585-11463bd6077b\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u00225615b2d028294091ac1e3640e6b6a915\u0022\u003EMr SPEAKER\u003C/span\u003E: Order! There are many questions that if I ruled absolutely strictly on, according to Standing Order 380, would not be acceptable in this House. I am relatively lenient, but when I get one like I have just had, which has clearly created some disorder, then I am required to rule. I will appear to be consistent as well, but if members consistently want me to toughen up and take out all qualifications on supplementary questions, I am happy to do so. But I suspect that about 80 percent of the supplementary questions asked so far would have been ruled out of order. So if that is the wish of Mr Hipkins, I ask him to consider it carefully. But if it is his wish, I am happy to comply.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000146\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022aa2209f1-1889-4c24-b51d-cb2aedc7aa93\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022f06342b2b5d04431a434d08a081d4fb2\u0022\u003EJacinda Ardern\u003C/span\u003E: Did she consult with the RSA as the Minister responsible for World War I commemorations, or, indeed, anyone else, before she adopted a position in support of the Lockwood option, which she has been wearing as a badge since Monday and is hanging in the front of her electorate office? [Interruption]\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000147\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e4b09a29-dfd3-42c0-8585-11463bd6077b\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u002206756d58aa2640feafcd6e4afc19154e\u0022\u003EMr SPEAKER\u003C/span\u003E: Order! [Interruption] Order! If members on my right-hand side want to catch an early flight, I can assist. The question has been asked; the question is in order.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000148\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002292824476-4e66-4052-8435-b049833d8b83\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022ec3c7fdad73b4e6d8aea0b0493ebe6ed\u0022\u003EHon NICKY WAGNER\u003C/span\u003E: I am not the Minister concerned, so I am unable to answer that question directly, but I am very pleased to see that the Labour Party is taking an interest in the referendum, and I hope it will support the right of every New Zealander to have an opinion.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000149\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00227e22bb95-9afb-449c-bcd2-de9fd4f2277c\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u002291fe0a63db1c4efba83a677461ff22e0\u0022\u003EDavid Seymour\u003C/span\u003E: Is the Minister concerned that colour-blind voters will, effectively, have only three options to vote for with the current line-up?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000150\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002292824476-4e66-4052-8435-b049833d8b83\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022b71ef3e334ca4bae82310864f86150d5\u0022\u003EHon NICKY WAGNER\u003C/span\u003E: No.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000151\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsSubjectHeading\u0022 id=\u0022cd9c96629cd145b5aa9b257dbb6539e9\u0022\u003EEmployment\u2014Women\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u0022758dcaf3-9976-43ac-8593-79f66ee4da22\u0022 data-id=\u00227e8c14c2ac7845239c2c06479581d6e4\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000152\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022758dcaf3-9976-43ac-8593-79f66ee4da22\u0022\u003E8. \u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u00227e8c14c2ac7845239c2c06479581d6e4\u0022\u003EJOANNE HAYES (National)\u003C/span\u003E to the Minister for Women: What reports has she received relating to the benefits of employing women in trades and construction for the Canterbury rebuild?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u0022a68928ea-9dd8-4a30-8e2c-a0f49dfc8bea\u0022 data-id=\u0022d01eab78fc6542c5aca6435dbaf41368\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000153\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022a68928ea-9dd8-4a30-8e2c-a0f49dfc8bea\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u0022d01eab78fc6542c5aca6435dbaf41368\u0022\u003EHon LOUISE UPSTON (Minister for Women):\u003C/span\u003E I was thrilled to launch the Ministry for Women\u2019s report Getting it done: Utilising women\u2019s skills in the workforce in Christchurch on Tuesday. This report presents the lessons learned in Canterbury, which can work in all parts of New Zealand to encourage employers, industry groups, training organisations, and schools to increase the number of women training and working in trades and construction jobs. The report was a collaboration between the Ministry for Women and its partners in Canterbury, including the Canterbury Employers\u2019 Chamber of Commerce, Christchurch Polytechnic Institute of Technology, the Stronger Christchurch Infrastructure Rebuild Team, and the National Association of Women in Construction.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000154\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022758dcaf3-9976-43ac-8593-79f66ee4da22\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022e231ffaa125446b19cfe3bfd73a8ca79\u0022\u003EJoanne Hayes\u003C/span\u003E: What evidence does she have that employing women in industries such as construction can be beneficial for businesses?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000155\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022a68928ea-9dd8-4a30-8e2c-a0f49dfc8bea\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u002258a0069bad3d4be5bd3ce6556e893c2d\u0022\u003EHon LOUISE UPSTON\u003C/span\u003E: The Ministry for Women commissioned research in the year 2013 to better understand why women were not applying for construction jobs, given that there was a demand in Canterbury. Their research found that women were available and wanted to work, and they were open to working in construction, but there was a perception that these were jobs for the boys. Women employees bring benefits to businesses, such as stronger connections with customers, improved business performance, and greater diversity of leadership. Construction is one of the many growing industries where there is a shortage of women. However, over the past 2 years, the number of women in construction has more than doubled in Canterbury. I think that this is a great result for New Zealand women, for Canterbury, and for New Zealand.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000156\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022758dcaf3-9976-43ac-8593-79f66ee4da22\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u002278d5c627003d4d35bb3c435b3d6cf71f\u0022\u003EJoanne Hayes\u003C/span\u003E: How can the findings from this report be rolled out to other regions around New Zealand?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000157\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022a68928ea-9dd8-4a30-8e2c-a0f49dfc8bea\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022c1ccdca93b044350a1ead8543abcb314\u0022\u003EHon LOUISE UPSTON\u003C/span\u003E: With the high demand for skilled workers in industries varying from trades and construction to engineering and IT forecast to continue, some businesses are continuing to have difficulty in attracting skilled workers to fill these jobs. These industries are likely to drive New Zealand\u2019s growth in the next 5 to 10 years, and it makes good business sense to attract more women to industries that have been traditionally male orientated. I encourage employers to learn from Canterbury the actions that they can take to attract and retain more women in their businesses and to look forward to ways to better utilise women leaders and talents when going through recruitment.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000158\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022b2567d3e-a09c-47b4-bd50-2f5bb4049762\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u002244231e1d14bb45f9b953c14084f10c56\u0022\u003ESue Moroney\u003C/span\u003E: I seek leave to table a document from the Employment and Vocational Guidance Service. It is a poster, \u201CGirls Can Do Anything\u201D, from the mid\u2014\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000159\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e4b09a29-dfd3-42c0-8585-11463bd6077b\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022c404f2e92b5b403fb1948862d6d5802e\u0022\u003EMr SPEAKER\u003C/span\u003E: Order! The member will resume her seat and stop trifling with the House.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000160\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsSubjectHeading\u0022 id=\u00222974c97090c7420b9b01b7f5eeef1281\u0022\u003EEconomic Policy\u2014Oversight and Monetary Policy Framework\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u002258f935f1-6646-40ab-9d99-17029396850c\u0022 data-id=\u00227ecf7c9f45094e0ca07f4664fa74131f\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000161\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002258f935f1-6646-40ab-9d99-17029396850c\u0022\u003E9. \u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u00227ecf7c9f45094e0ca07f4664fa74131f\u0022\u003EJULIE ANNE GENTER (Green)\u003C/span\u003E to the Minister of Finance: Does he have confidence in the Reserve Bank in light of today\u2019s official cash rate cut which has now reversed 75 points of the 100-point hike it made in 2014?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u00224a244152-977c-48d2-bf53-4f3a369a27a9\u0022 data-id=\u00225aa1c3cabc25462aa41ebf6d40fbd4f1\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000162\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00224a244152-977c-48d2-bf53-4f3a369a27a9\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u00225aa1c3cabc25462aa41ebf6d40fbd4f1\u0022\u003EHon STEVEN JOYCE (Associate Minister of Finance)\u003C/span\u003E on behalf of the Minister of Finance: Yes.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000163\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002258f935f1-6646-40ab-9d99-17029396850c\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u002266b76bcc886a4e4e8329bf0ea1af267a\u0022\u003EJulie Anne Genter\u003C/span\u003E: Does he think that a panel of experts from across the economy, instead of only one Reserve Bank Governor, might make better decisions around monetary policy; if not, why not?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000164\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00224a244152-977c-48d2-bf53-4f3a369a27a9\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022b181103dd0c0439695fce111de99425a\u0022\u003EHon STEVEN JOYCE\u003C/span\u003E: The suggestion that the member makes, of having a panel of people making the decision, is, I have to say, not the silliest suggestion in monetary policy we have heard from the Greens over the years, and many countries\u2014\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000165\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e4b09a29-dfd3-42c0-8585-11463bd6077b\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u00226640f52c2fd0455eae3a6f2770edd5c0\u0022\u003EMr SPEAKER\u003C/span\u003E: Order! Just answer the question.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000166\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00224a244152-977c-48d2-bf53-4f3a369a27a9\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u00225062428b217646adbf5e0e417ac8a9fc\u0022\u003EHon STEVEN JOYCE\u003C/span\u003E: I think the challenge is, though, the way the member phrases it, if I may be fair, because I think it is a very important point. The suggestion is that she is unhappy with the decision that the Reserve Bank Governor has made; therefore, she would shop around to find a group of people who would make a decision that she agrees with. The whole idea of having an independent Reserve Bank Governor and an independent process is that politicians may or may not agree with that process at some time but the decision is independent. On that basis, I could not support the member\u2019s proposal.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000167\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002258f935f1-6646-40ab-9d99-17029396850c\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u00225a527708f4f84a8090a062358beda57e\u0022\u003EJulie Anne Genter\u003C/span\u003E: Does he agree with Treasury\u2019s advice to him that \u201CThe current single decision-maker approach poses risks\u201D, and that \u201Con balance, we think there would be benefits to moving towards a monetary policy committee in the future.\u201D; if not, why not?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000168\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00224a244152-977c-48d2-bf53-4f3a369a27a9\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u00223fa2af1e81a447d6a71a6c48f02181e9\u0022\u003EHon STEVEN JOYCE\u003C/span\u003E: I am, of course, aware of that policy advice. But it is important to note that the New Zealand system has served us very well, I think, over the last 26-odd years. Yes, you could have a change at some point, but, again, I think that if you wanted to do it, and it is not a proposal that we are at all considering at this point, but if it was something that you wanted to do, you would have to do it for the right reasons and not because you disagreed. The member framed her primary question in such a way that suggested she was concerned about what had happened. In fact, in her press release today she was concerned about a mistaken decision by the Reserve Bank Governor. I just cannot agree with that.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000169\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002258f935f1-6646-40ab-9d99-17029396850c\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022a0c03ed827b6440bac92f9b91adfc991\u0022\u003EJulie Anne Genter\u003C/span\u003E: Given that the Reserve Bank\u2019s own analysis suggests that last year\u2019s unnecessary official cash rate increases will have cost the economy up to $2.4 billion, why is he so complacent about the governance structure surrounding these decisions?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000170\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00224a244152-977c-48d2-bf53-4f3a369a27a9\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u00227414609c94274b9cbac4fc29a5d61e6b\u0022\u003EHon STEVEN JOYCE\u003C/span\u003E: I am not remotely complacent, but, again, I think the member is just\u2014I do not know whether she wanted to do this or whether she just inadvertently made the point I was making, in that she said that it was a wrong decision last year. I think that is a very interesting statement to make, because, actually, if you look at the situation that was in place last year, a number of those things have subsequently changed. I think it is very interesting that the member would seek to second-guess the Reserve Bank Governor in that way, because they can only make the decisions that they make at the time based on the information that is available at the time.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000171\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002258f935f1-6646-40ab-9d99-17029396850c\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022f20441972cef4333b09524cc80aa6170\u0022\u003EJulie Anne Genter\u003C/span\u003E: Is the Minister aware that we are basically the only OECD country that has this single decision-maker structure and that there are a whole number of other countries that use a broad panel of experts?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000172\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00224a244152-977c-48d2-bf53-4f3a369a27a9\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022654c57ee47384ff5af8d16696b2e5292\u0022\u003EHon STEVEN JOYCE\u003C/span\u003E: I said at the outset in one of my earlier answers that there are different ways of doing it. I acknowledge that. I am not saying that you would never want to move from that, but you certainly would not want to do that just because one or a number of members of Parliament had decided that in their view the Reserve Bank Governor had made \u201Cthe wrong decision\u201D. I do not believe that that has happened, and, actually, that would be the wrong basis on which you would make any decisions about independent monetary policy.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000173\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002258f935f1-6646-40ab-9d99-17029396850c\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022d34f374967264deda9ef2c1325a532fe\u0022\u003EJulie Anne Genter\u003C/span\u003E: I raise a point of order, Mr Speaker. Mr Speaker, I seek your guidance on this. I am struggling because I do not believe that there has been any assertion in any of my questions that implies what the Minister is saying that I have said, and therefore he is changing his answers.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000174\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e4b09a29-dfd3-42c0-8585-11463bd6077b\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022b15a07f7622a4a9fa37130893298ed1c\u0022\u003EMr SPEAKER\u003C/span\u003E: I think there has been some assertion, because if I go back to the previous supplementary question, the member inserted the words herself\u2014\u201Cthe unnecessary adjustment to the official cash rate\u201D, etc. But the point that I think is fair is that on that particular occasion the question was not addressed, and I think it is really because perhaps the Minister did not hear it correctly. The way forward is to repeat that supplementary question to the Minister.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000175\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002258f935f1-6646-40ab-9d99-17029396850c\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u00224df6dbe5d8f945c583de9abecd8001d3\u0022\u003EJulie Anne Genter\u003C/span\u003E: Thank you, Mr Speaker. Is the Minister aware that we are one of the only OECD countries to have this single decision-maker\u2014[Interruption] \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000176\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e4b09a29-dfd3-42c0-8585-11463bd6077b\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022267b11e220994208a668be851b94e7cc\u0022\u003EMr SPEAKER\u003C/span\u003E: Order! I declared that I was not happy with the answer. It had not been addressed. That is it. So I am going to invite the member to ask it again\u2014I do not expect interjection from the two Ministers on my right-hand side\u2014and then the Minister can have the opportunity to answer.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000177\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002258f935f1-6646-40ab-9d99-17029396850c\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022cff89e3c188d43c5b0e1a185aaca7c9f\u0022\u003EJulie Anne Genter\u003C/span\u003E: Is the Minister aware that no other OECD country with a central bank gives so much legal power to a single official?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000178\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00224a244152-977c-48d2-bf53-4f3a369a27a9\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022d96958eab29a449f8c2fd4328dd89755\u0022\u003EHon STEVEN JOYCE\u003C/span\u003E: As I said previously, I am aware of that. Actually, as I said to the member in one of my earlier answers\u2014this is on behalf of the Minister of Finance\u2014actually, there is a range of ways in which that is done internationally. But the basis on which you would change that is not on the basis that a number of members of Parliament think that the Reserve Bank Governor had made the wrong or unnecessary decision in a previous year, which the member asserted in one of her previous questions.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000179\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002258f935f1-6646-40ab-9d99-17029396850c\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u00225606f70369944bab98ef73dd32f203eb\u0022\u003EJulie Anne Genter\u003C/span\u003E: Given that the only independent review of New Zealand\u2019s monetary policy framework since the 1989 Act was put in place recommended changing the law in regard to bank governance, and that no other OECD country with a central bank gives so much power to a single individual, will his Government consider updating the law?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000180\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00224a244152-977c-48d2-bf53-4f3a369a27a9\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u00221c28f298552f484d8e646fb1897fb12d\u0022\u003EHon STEVEN JOYCE\u003C/span\u003E: I thought I had answered that previously, but the answer is no, we have no plans to do so at this stage.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000181\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsSubjectHeading\u0022 id=\u0022acfde78cb5d946c687eac0db0aa5133d\u0022\u003ETertiary Institutes\u2014Monitoring and Investigation into Funding\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u0022e0192ed9-5715-4f6c-bd52-8db4f3466087\u0022 data-id=\u0022671d6c6af5da420abaff884f11528571\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000182\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e0192ed9-5715-4f6c-bd52-8db4f3466087\u0022\u003E10. \u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u0022671d6c6af5da420abaff884f11528571\u0022\u003EHon DAVID CUNLIFFE (Labour\u2014New Lynn)\u003C/span\u003E to the Minister for Tertiary Education, Skills and Employment: What is the name of the tertiary education institution he referred to in his answer to Oral Question No 9 yesterday that had its focused review \u201Celevated to a full review\u201D, and what is the nature of the allegations that his officials are now investigating?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000183\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e4b09a29-dfd3-42c0-8585-11463bd6077b\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022c3385e05ba174caca613d6d7a432d029\u0022\u003EMr SPEAKER\u003C/span\u003E: Before I call the Minister, my office has been advised that this answer may be longer than normal.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u00224a244152-977c-48d2-bf53-4f3a369a27a9\u0022 data-id=\u00228d609ee0d14340408e94f5a9ca294472\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000184\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00224a244152-977c-48d2-bf53-4f3a369a27a9\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u00228d609ee0d14340408e94f5a9ca294472\u0022\u003EHon STEVEN JOYCE (Minister for Tertiary Education, Skills and Employment):\u003C/span\u003E The tertiary education system is under constant evaluation, with the Tertiary Education Commission and the New Zealand Qualifications Authority undertaking a range of different levels of review and investigations of tertiary education organisations at any one time. In the interests of natural justice these are not publicised until they are completed, or, indeed, for the majority where no issues at all are found, they may not be publicised at all. Six focused reviews were initiated in 2014 to look at tertiary education organisations that had some features in common with Te Whare Wan\u0101nga o Awanui\u0101rangi and the Western Institute of Technology at Taranaki. As indicated to the member yesterday, five of those have been concluded completely satisfactorily with no concerns. The sixth investigation will come to a conclusion shortly. As I said to the member yesterday, at an appropriate time I would be more than happy to publicise the outcome of that investigation and name the institution involved, should there be a necessity to do so, but I do not consider it in the public interest to do so at this time before the investigation has concluded.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000185\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e0192ed9-5715-4f6c-bd52-8db4f3466087\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u002276bf6bf7028343a0a85873e18f10cc22\u0022\u003EHon David Cunliffe\u003C/span\u003E: Do the allegations against the institution currently still under an elevated review include inflated credit values for course delivery, such as an 11-month course being delivered and assessed in just 7 days?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000186\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00224a244152-977c-48d2-bf53-4f3a369a27a9\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022c71777953d044bef980ee4c0a71f25fb\u0022\u003EHon STEVEN JOYCE\u003C/span\u003E: I am not prepared to go into the details of that at this point, but as I said to the member yesterday, and also announced in my primary answer, the issues that we are talking about are with some similarity to what has been announced recently in relation to Te Whare Wan\u0101nga o Awanui\u0101rangi and also Taratahi Agricultural Training Centre, so there will be some similarities in terms of funding commitments that may not have been met in terms of the amount of teaching that has been provided.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000187\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e0192ed9-5715-4f6c-bd52-8db4f3466087\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u00227b0c13967ff44c86bbbfb5691c289f20\u0022\u003EHon David Cunliffe\u003C/span\u003E: Do the allegations against this institution include the enrolment of tutors as ghost students for more than a decade across a range of programmes?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000188\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00224a244152-977c-48d2-bf53-4f3a369a27a9\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u00222b26bfe6a36e420ba2882df7b4d49d40\u0022\u003EHon STEVEN JOYCE\u003C/span\u003E: My answer to that is exactly the same as the answer to the previous one. The member will be aware that the Taratahi Agricultural Training Centre had some issues with some tutors being enrolled in programmes and those moneys being paid. Those are both subject to a current Serious Fraud Office investigation but also have been announced in terms of the Deloitte review. In relation to the other investigation he is referring to, I am not willing to provide the details at this time, but I am happy to do so once the investigation is complete.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000189\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e0192ed9-5715-4f6c-bd52-8db4f3466087\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u002271d8112cdd944676b6ea5281eeb16cbe\u0022\u003EHon David Cunliffe\u003C/span\u003E: In what year\u2014in what year\u2014was he first made aware of allegations of systemic credit and level rorting and of tutors being enrolled in courses to boost numbers and funding at Tai Poutini Polytechnic in Greymouth, and why has he not acted sooner, given that Search and Rescue Institute New Zealand says that as a result of this delivery lives have been put at risk?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000190\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e4b09a29-dfd3-42c0-8585-11463bd6077b\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022800c42e6b5314de285472d67cc7c7d8f\u0022\u003EMr SPEAKER\u003C/span\u003E: The Hon Steven Joyce\u2014either of those two supplementary questions.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000191\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00224a244152-977c-48d2-bf53-4f3a369a27a9\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022a37ff5d8b93f43f79d0190a8ed777339\u0022\u003EHon STEVEN JOYCE\u003C/span\u003E: The matters that the member raises are not, for his edification, the subject of any current review. I am aware of the issues that the Search and Rescue Institute raised\u2014\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000192\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00225bbd9f26-fdb0-4b85-a836-0fc46e1bba3c\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022b39a3f05eee04245ad6ec1eb2484d578\u0022\u003EDr David Clark\u003C/span\u003E: What year?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000193\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00224a244152-977c-48d2-bf53-4f3a369a27a9\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u00226e4df6de521243f08fb4415541fb8aaf\u0022\u003EHon STEVEN JOYCE\u003C/span\u003E: I do not have the year in front of me. They were satisfactorily resolved at the time.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000194\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e0192ed9-5715-4f6c-bd52-8db4f3466087\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u00227703873b588e49999d34b52d04045a68\u0022\u003EHon David Cunliffe\u003C/span\u003E: Given that Tai Poutini Polytechnic is not the institution that his officials are still investigating, can he assure the taxpayers of New Zealand that he will now immediately order a further investigation into these allegations; if not, why not?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000195\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e4b09a29-dfd3-42c0-8585-11463bd6077b\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022597c048b84fd426ba57d38c2c6b57351\u0022\u003EMr SPEAKER\u003C/span\u003E: Again, either of those two supplementary questions.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000196\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00224a244152-977c-48d2-bf53-4f3a369a27a9\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022573b877f1e804d0fb5747dcedfd7bf7d\u0022\u003EHon STEVEN JOYCE\u003C/span\u003E: The matters that the Search and Rescue Institute raised\u2014and, again, any number of people raise any number of prospective issues, particularly in a competitive environment, of which this one is\u2014as far as I am aware were addressed at the time. If the member has any new and recent information, I would be happy for him to supply it to me and I would have a look at it.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000197\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e0192ed9-5715-4f6c-bd52-8db4f3466087\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022805f7ce22beb433c8df0036fb84bedae\u0022\u003EHon David Cunliffe\u003C/span\u003E: How would the Minister respond to the acting general manager of the Search and Rescue Institute New Zealand, who says in a letter of today\u2019s date: \u201CHow can training that formerly occurred over 1 year now all be taught and assessed in one 7-day period? Are the students aware that as search and rescue responders, their lives are being forsaken so the polytechnic can make money? How, despite previous complaints to TEC, to the Minister of Tertiary Education, and public notification of such occurrences, has this been allowed to continue for so long?\u201D\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000198\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00224a244152-977c-48d2-bf53-4f3a369a27a9\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022c23961937d3248e894400a66925684cb\u0022\u003EHon STEVEN JOYCE\u003C/span\u003E: The member may or may not be aware that that is a statement by a competitor, I believe, of that particular course, but again I make the offer that I made in the previous answer\u2014\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000199\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00226007dc96-f459-4cdd-9972-4fde2c994088\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u00226dd93fe58b1a4613b035ce7f720d2874\u0022\u003EGrant Robertson\u003C/span\u003E: So it\u2019s all right then?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000200\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00224a244152-977c-48d2-bf53-4f3a369a27a9\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022ff7c264553184dc78d517dff05332189\u0022\u003EHon STEVEN JOYCE\u003C/span\u003E: No, I am just making the member aware that different people make different claims about competing providers at different times, but my invitation to the member is that, rather than grandstanding about it, if he would like to provide the information to me, I would be more than happy to investigate it.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000201\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsSubjectHeading\u0022 id=\u0022d03f030fcc0148a886f9fc4eb5ffebdb\u0022\u003EBroadband, Rural\u2014Southland\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u0022ebb4ac6b-662b-498f-a27f-832d054e6585\u0022 data-id=\u00225e17d143c837412ba143aa00d97357f8\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000202\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022ebb4ac6b-662b-498f-a27f-832d054e6585\u0022\u003E11. \u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u00225e17d143c837412ba143aa00d97357f8\u0022\u003ERIA BOND (NZ First)\u003C/span\u003E to the Minister for Communications: Does she stand by all her statements?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u0022dc6c0f88-e781-476d-bca1-d1bf9b69302b\u0022 data-id=\u002234f04b860acf47798f49251af7965ab7\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000203\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022dc6c0f88-e781-476d-bca1-d1bf9b69302b\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u002234f04b860acf47798f49251af7965ab7\u0022\u003EHon AMY ADAMS (Minister for Communications):\u003C/span\u003E Yes, in the context in which they were given.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000204\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022ebb4ac6b-662b-498f-a27f-832d054e6585\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022fc51f11841364a60911228fe7066f527\u0022\u003ERia Bond\u003C/span\u003E: Does she stand by her statement yesterday on broadband speed that \u201CSo the residents of Southland should be very grateful that at least this Government is addressing it, something the Labour failed to do?\u201D\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000205\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022dc6c0f88-e781-476d-bca1-d1bf9b69302b\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022a18cc2e9cc514900b8008139988b2f90\u0022\u003EHon AMY ADAMS\u003C/span\u003E: Yes.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000206\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022ebb4ac6b-662b-498f-a27f-832d054e6585\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022fffaafb6675b47a7bf73fbd8bc208737\u0022\u003ERia Bond\u003C/span\u003E: If rural broadband speeds have tripled, as the Minister said yesterday, has the member of Parliament for Invercargill raised constituents\u2019 concerns with her about internet services and Ms Dowie\u2019s own concerns about officially reported broadband performance; if not, why not?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000207\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022dc6c0f88-e781-476d-bca1-d1bf9b69302b\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022a5ba9c375f3849299c4db278949d7fff\u0022\u003EHon AMY ADAMS\u003C/span\u003E: I cannot recall every item of constituent correspondence that I have had from colleagues, but I know that the member for Invercargill, like most members, wants to see better broadband rolled out in their communities because members understand the fundamental importance of connectivity in all our communities, and they understand that New Zealand\u2019s thirst for connectivity is growing exponentially, which is exciting and which is why this Government has spent $2 billion on improving that very connectivity.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000208\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022ebb4ac6b-662b-498f-a27f-832d054e6585\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022c2110a22973342eeb617f31bebead09c\u0022\u003ERia Bond\u003C/span\u003E: I seek leave to table a letter written by Ms Dowie to Venture Southland, dated 25 June 2015, in which she outlines concerns\u2014\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000209\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e4b09a29-dfd3-42c0-8585-11463bd6077b\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022aff3cd6714d54aa8afccc558a47b25b8\u0022\u003EMr SPEAKER\u003C/span\u003E: Order! [Interruption] Order! I have just been advised by interjection that it is available on the internet. [Interruption] Order!\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000210\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022ebb4ac6b-662b-498f-a27f-832d054e6585\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u00229c0a7de2381b49ea824ea727d074b103\u0022\u003ERia Bond\u003C/span\u003E: It is not publicly\u2014\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000211\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e4b09a29-dfd3-42c0-8585-11463bd6077b\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u00228a31ce823e0b4e388a14019202ea9b28\u0022\u003EMr SPEAKER\u003C/span\u003E: Is the member saying it is not available on the internet?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000212\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022ebb4ac6b-662b-498f-a27f-832d054e6585\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022825564a038084d9a8216464076758426\u0022\u003ERia Bond\u003C/span\u003E: As far as I am aware, Mr Speaker.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000213\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e4b09a29-dfd3-42c0-8585-11463bd6077b\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u002253f1e795421744f4abe33ea0e1eb9a21\u0022\u003EMr SPEAKER\u003C/span\u003E: Sorry, I cannot hear the member.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000214\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022ebb4ac6b-662b-498f-a27f-832d054e6585\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022552b1db67ba54211ac8049251104a45b\u0022\u003ERia Bond\u003C/span\u003E: As far as I am aware, it is not in the public domain.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000215\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022dc6c0f88-e781-476d-bca1-d1bf9b69302b\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022b89ca3e5f13740b188bb904f648c207f\u0022\u003EHon AMY ADAMS\u003C/span\u003E: I raise a point of order, Mr Speaker. The same member yesterday tabled a report from Venture Southland and assured us it was not readily available. It is readily available on the internet, and that letter is a part of it. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000216\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002207dc4112-8a19-4dd6-a57c-878b47f8a9b6\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022cf61dd45fbb6481db85f486c4fb1203a\u0022\u003ERon Mark\u003C/span\u003E: I raise a point of order, Mr Speaker. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000217\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e4b09a29-dfd3-42c0-8585-11463bd6077b\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022b2df4d2c0b2344c5b2f5200c1ec35a49\u0022\u003EMr SPEAKER\u003C/span\u003E: Order! [Interruption] Order! This is a point of order.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000218\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002207dc4112-8a19-4dd6-a57c-878b47f8a9b6\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u00228d142694ac244dd9bf6d583ccfd8d1f8\u0022\u003ERon Mark\u003C/span\u003E: Thank you Mr Speaker. I am struggling, because what you just\u2014[Interruption] \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000219\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e4b09a29-dfd3-42c0-8585-11463bd6077b\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022b09845f1924147c2a0aa63d994b42d29\u0022\u003EMr SPEAKER\u003C/span\u003E: Order! It is a point of order.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000220\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002207dc4112-8a19-4dd6-a57c-878b47f8a9b6\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022a133e123ea2a4e01b3013e47de0302e7\u0022\u003ERon Mark\u003C/span\u003E: Thank you. What you just said is that during a point of order you were advised by an interjection\u2014\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000221\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e4b09a29-dfd3-42c0-8585-11463bd6077b\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022aafbaaa2957d4174a2f16543105cb7a5\u0022\u003EMr SPEAKER\u003C/span\u003E: That is right.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000222\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002207dc4112-8a19-4dd6-a57c-878b47f8a9b6\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u00221b8dd677f9954ae88f46947cf53a3db8\u0022\u003ERon Mark\u003C/span\u003E: \u2014which is against the Standing Orders\u2014\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000223\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e4b09a29-dfd3-42c0-8585-11463bd6077b\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u002289a7aa74a42b45109364ee952a6e5f8d\u0022\u003EMr SPEAKER\u003C/span\u003E: It is. [Interruption]. I do not need the member to assist in that way. It certainly is against the Standing Orders, but the point is that there has been one other occasion when I was assured that the document was not freely available. I put the leave, it was tabled, and I subsequently found out it was very easily available. So I think the member who is seeking leave needs to be very, very clear that if she stands in this House and seeks leave to table a document, I will be asking whether it is freely available. It is her responsibility to have ascertained whether it is freely available, and I warn all members in this case that the risk of then misleading this Parliament is serious. I invite the member Ria Bond to request to table the document again, but I will be asking whether she has done the homework to find out whether it is available.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000224\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022ebb4ac6b-662b-498f-a27f-832d054e6585\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022eb803dce53724b5f87e910814abf5d18\u0022\u003ERia Bond\u003C/span\u003E: Has she seen a letter from her colleague Todd Barclay, drafted on 1 July, in which he raises concerns regarding her $300 million Rural Broadband Initiative, in which he stated\u2014\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000225\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002207dc4112-8a19-4dd6-a57c-878b47f8a9b6\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022871616e5a73a49eda354367f2dda4fe7\u0022\u003ERon Mark\u003C/span\u003E: I raise a point of order, Mr Speaker. I know that in times past it has been very difficult when\u2014\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000226\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e4b09a29-dfd3-42c0-8585-11463bd6077b\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022f52591f7d744493bad2e40fea5320935\u0022\u003EMr SPEAKER\u003C/span\u003E: Order! Can I have the point of order quickly.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000227\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002207dc4112-8a19-4dd6-a57c-878b47f8a9b6\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022500cd6a790d64e10bc61c01ace560556\u0022\u003ERon Mark\u003C/span\u003E: We cannot hear because of the level of interjection, and we seek your protection\u2014\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000228\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e4b09a29-dfd3-42c0-8585-11463bd6077b\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022b05850a5be3e4b37be54593d31a8539c\u0022\u003EMr SPEAKER\u003C/span\u003E: Thank you. Well, then, if you could assist by giving some lessons to your members about asking supplementary questions and keeping them short, that would assist. [Interruption] Order! I did not hear the interjection, which is possibly just as well. I invite the member Ria Bond to ask her supplementary question, keep it concise, and I expect silence from my right-hand side whilst the question is being asked.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000229\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022ebb4ac6b-662b-498f-a27f-832d054e6585\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u00221a735df8d7c44473803a184cda00b52a\u0022\u003ERia Bond\u003C/span\u003E: Has she seen a letter from her colleague Todd Barclay, dated 1 July, in which he raises concerns regarding her $300 million Rural Broadband Initiative, in which he stated that it is not an effective solution?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000230\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022dc6c0f88-e781-476d-bca1-d1bf9b69302b\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u002228dadc5316944453bff9b375045e217e\u0022\u003EHon AMY ADAMS\u003C/span\u003E: Yes, I have seen the letter, and I do not believe that that member\u2019s categorisation of it is correct at all. What he is doing is supporting the pitch for a new solution, under phase two of the Rural Broadband Initiative, and making the point that providers in his electorate want better connectivity. This Government agrees, and that is what we are doing. [Interruption]\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000231\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e4b09a29-dfd3-42c0-8585-11463bd6077b\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u00228c67b48bcdaf4c099a24d7c8be41ddde\u0022\u003EMr SPEAKER\u003C/span\u003E: Order! Again, the level of interjection coming from members on my right-hand side is to cease.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000232\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsSubjectHeading\u0022 id=\u0022751fc12438744f2f98c43e67d7769ed9\u0022\u003EM\u0101ui\u2019s Dolphin\u2014Oil and Gas Exploration\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u002281e8ca24-8b1d-4558-9ef9-c9418df2b3c0\u0022 data-id=\u002252ca762d0c0d4a219f907003b838fc11\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000233\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002281e8ca24-8b1d-4558-9ef9-c9418df2b3c0\u0022\u003E12. \u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u002252ca762d0c0d4a219f907003b838fc11\u0022\u003EKEVIN HAGUE (Green)\u003C/span\u003E to the Minister of Conservation: Does she stand by her statement, \u201CWe are doing everything we can to protect the M\u0101ui\u2019s dolphin\u201D?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u002292824476-4e66-4052-8435-b049833d8b83\u0022 data-id=\u00224773a33c0df64194a1a6538ccd70343e\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000234\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002292824476-4e66-4052-8435-b049833d8b83\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u00224773a33c0df64194a1a6538ccd70343e\u0022\u003EHon NICKY WAGNER (Associate Minister of Conservation)\u003C/span\u003E on behalf of the Minister of Conservation: Yes.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000235\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002281e8ca24-8b1d-4558-9ef9-c9418df2b3c0\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u002221a44d5b84c8480cbef205a7fb2baebc\u0022\u003EKevin Hague\u003C/span\u003E: How is the Government doing everything that it can to protect the M\u0101ui\u2019s dolphin when the Minister of Energy and Resources has just proposed, as part of Block Offer 2016, new oil and gas exploration in 22 percent of the M\u0101ui\u2019s dolphin sanctuary, where at least 14 reliable M\u0101ui\u2019s dolphin sightings have been made?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000236\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002292824476-4e66-4052-8435-b049833d8b83\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u00228cb9f049eead4096bae4610e34a0e7e0\u0022\u003EHon NICKY WAGNER\u003C/span\u003E: We have layered and sophisticated M\u0101ui\u2019s dolphin protection mechanisms in place. They range from the core of the marine mammal sanctuary, and they have protections for trawling, for set-netting, and for seismic activity. Also, we are very focused on protecting the M\u0101ui\u2019s dolphin in terms of seismic activity, and we have world\u2019s best-practice protective regulations in seismic work within the marine mammal sanctuary, and we require compulsory adherence to the seismic code of conduct within the exclusive economic zone legislation.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000237\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002281e8ca24-8b1d-4558-9ef9-c9418df2b3c0\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022ec5b65958a364340929157def1e36f0c\u0022\u003EKevin Hague\u003C/span\u003E: Can the Minister explain how \u201Cdoing everything it can\u201D is consistent with the Government introducing additional risks to the M\u0101ui\u2019s dolphin, such as exploratory oil drilling, as these permits will likely require, given that there are fewer than 55 M\u0101ui\u2019s dolphins left in the world?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000238\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002292824476-4e66-4052-8435-b049833d8b83\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022b7a76f56e3dc4684b38baf94384cdb36\u0022\u003EHon NICKY WAGNER\u003C/span\u003E: As I have said, we are very focused on protecting the M\u0101ui\u2019s dolphin. We do not believe that we are increasing that risk, because we have world\u2019s best-practice protective regulations for the seismic work inside the marine mammal sanctuary, and outside it we have compulsory adherence to the seismic code of conduct.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000239\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002281e8ca24-8b1d-4558-9ef9-c9418df2b3c0\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u00226f02f53e4dd743b4914bdb786699d272\u0022\u003EKevin Hague\u003C/span\u003E: Is there any way she can possibly guarantee that new drilling will not cause a spill and cause harm to the critically endangered M\u0101ui\u2019s dolphin, which it is her job to protect?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000240\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002292824476-4e66-4052-8435-b049833d8b83\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022d0ce8631afb44975854d4cb0133fe339\u0022\u003EHon NICKY WAGNER\u003C/span\u003E: As I have said, we have layered and sophisticated protections for the M\u0101ui\u2019s dolphin. They cover the most important threats to dolphins, which are trawling and set-netting, and it is important to note that there have been no deaths from fishing since 2002. We also have ongoing research\u2014the very best local and international research\u2014and this year we are going to be introducing c-pods that actually listen to the dolphins and make sure that we can identify their exact range and their exact frequency. We believe that that will protect our dolphins.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000241\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002281e8ca24-8b1d-4558-9ef9-c9418df2b3c0\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u002224603186edc646f997282600f32a4c05\u0022\u003EKevin Hague\u003C/span\u003E: I raise a point of order, Mr Speaker. My question asked about the risk associated with oil drilling\u2014a point that was not addressed even slightly by the Minister\u2019s answer.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000242\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e4b09a29-dfd3-42c0-8585-11463bd6077b\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022cba0d2ddb88b49348f061daa68249b04\u0022\u003EMr SPEAKER\u003C/span\u003E: The question asked whether there was any way that the Minister could guarantee a situation. Well, clearly a Minister cannot guarantee a situation\u2014[Interruption] Order! The member did ask that in his question. The question has, without doubt, been addressed.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000243\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002281e8ca24-8b1d-4558-9ef9-c9418df2b3c0\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022f4b997f0b50e4c8fa54b55f8f940753f\u0022\u003EKevin Hague\u003C/span\u003E: Thank you, Mr Speaker. I agree with your analysis of the answer. If she has the opportunity, as Minister of Conservation, to prevent oil drilling and seismic surveys in the M\u0101ui\u2019s dolphin sanctuary, will she take it?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000244\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002292824476-4e66-4052-8435-b049833d8b83\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022b185a701bec5495b894c0d76871152fd\u0022\u003EHon NICKY WAGNER\u003C/span\u003E: I am not convinced that there are risks to the M\u0101ui\u2019s dolphin, because we have the world\u2019s best practice of regulations within the sanctuary and we also have compulsory adherence to the exclusive economic zone legislation.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000245\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002281e8ca24-8b1d-4558-9ef9-c9418df2b3c0\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022bfef289c5c504991b34b9bdf50f7d85e\u0022\u003EKevin Hague\u003C/span\u003E: I seek leave to table a map prepared by the Green Party\u2019s parliamentary office today, which indicates the M\u0101ui\u2019s dolphin sightings in the area of the proposed block offer.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000246\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e4b09a29-dfd3-42c0-8585-11463bd6077b\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u002209efbbe847af46bc8802e1bf7cd9ec8d\u0022\u003EMr SPEAKER\u003C/span\u003E: I suspect that that information is very readily available, but I will put the leave. Leave is sought to table that particular map. Is there any objection? There is objection.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000247\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsSubjectHeading\u0022 id=\u002243540bfaa3b54af7acded98b974d7bda\u0022\u003EQuestion No. 11 to Minister\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u0022530ce0c4-c977-40cb-90fb-754f54931ff1\u0022 data-id=\u00227844ce47d6c041988b53902e56a168ce\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000248\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022530ce0c4-c977-40cb-90fb-754f54931ff1\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u00227844ce47d6c041988b53902e56a168ce\u0022\u003ETRACEY MARTIN (NZ First):\u003C/span\u003E I raise a point of order, Mr Speaker. Can I ask you to reflect on an incident that happened here today with regard to my colleague Ria Bond. I would like you to have a look at the way that Ms Bond was treated by the House during her attempt to ask questions that she has every right to ask and also about some of the sexist remarks that were made by Mr Joyce, in particular with regard to a comment about \u201Csweet pea\u201D, and so on and so forth. If you could have a look at the tape and, perhaps, just reflect on how, in the future, we may be able to treat woman with more dignity in this House.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u0022e6b4dc55-3561-49a8-a871-ae005354ef90\u0022 data-id=\u0022c1cda74c556a48738d084d09966533b6\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000249\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e6b4dc55-3561-49a8-a871-ae005354ef90\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u0022c1cda74c556a48738d084d09966533b6\u0022\u003EHon GERRY BROWNLEE (Leader of the House):\u003C/span\u003E I think it may be a good idea if you were able to look at the tape. I know that you do regularly have a look and see just how things are going and how members are faring. I would also ask you to listen very carefully to that tape and, perhaps, indicate to some others in the House how you feel about it, because there was, most certainly, an unparliamentary remark made that was addressed to you. I accept that it is your choice to act on that or not, but I think there have been a few fractious moments, and perhaps Ms Martin\u2019s idea is not such a bad one.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000250\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022365271aa9ee14a12bfcb076ea5c5ff6a\u0022\u003EHon Members\u003C/span\u003E: Point of order.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u0022e4b09a29-dfd3-42c0-8585-11463bd6077b\u0022 data-id=\u00223b08d56cc31c4c22bb7db1b9726c1554\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000251\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e4b09a29-dfd3-42c0-8585-11463bd6077b\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u00223b08d56cc31c4c22bb7db1b9726c1554\u0022\u003EMr SPEAKER\u003C/span\u003E: No, I do not need any further assistance\u2014[Interruption]. I do not need any further assistance, but I thank members for offering their assistance. I normally certainly take the time to go very carefully through the Hansard and review the situation to see some of the rulings that I have made. On this occasion I will look at the tape\u2014I do not normally bother\u2014but I am aware of a very unsatisfactory remark that was made across the House, which I did not hear at the time, but if I had heard it would have led to a very severe reprimand. There is a lot of interjection occurring from the House, particularly in the far corners of the House, which may get picked up on the microphones and get displayed publicly via the TV system, that are not heard by me as Speaker. I think members need to be aware of that, but I just warn all members that some comments made in the heat of the moment and some of the language used in the heat of the moment is totally unparliamentary and it must cease.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u00224a244152-977c-48d2-bf53-4f3a369a27a9\u0022 data-id=\u0022586076ef9d6d40cc8af7331474c72a40\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000252\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00224a244152-977c-48d2-bf53-4f3a369a27a9\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u0022586076ef9d6d40cc8af7331474c72a40\u0022\u003EHon STEVEN JOYCE (Minister for Economic Development):\u003C/span\u003E I raise a point of order, Mr Speaker. I just feel the need to respond to the comments from colleague on the other side of the House because she is incorrect and she has misheard. I think, for the benefit of the House, I would like to make the point that the comment I actually made was in reference to Mr Mark and it was \u201Csweary bear\u201D. That was what I was saying, which I have said before. So please\u2014I did not make the comment that Tracey suggests I did.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u0022e4b09a29-dfd3-42c0-8585-11463bd6077b\u0022 data-id=\u00226dff529e787846eeae85f8e9b183d5be\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000253\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e4b09a29-dfd3-42c0-8585-11463bd6077b\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u00226dff529e787846eeae85f8e9b183d5be\u0022\u003EMr SPEAKER\u003C/span\u003E: I have said to the House I will review the tape. I think that is the most appropriate way forward, and after reviewing the tape I will then decide whether any further action is required.\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=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000254\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsSubjectHeading\u0022 id=\u0022319bc2b47a4843f5ac46154986a2364a\u0022\u003ELand Transfer Amendment Bill\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000255\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsSubjectHeading\u0022 id=\u0022319bc2b47a4843f5ac46154986a2364a\u0022\u003ETax Administration Amendment Bill\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000256\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsSubproceedingHeading\u0022 id=\u00224e1b494ee1bd407eb1761c2b3955af42\u0022\u003EThird Readings\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u0022a68928ea-9dd8-4a30-8e2c-a0f49dfc8bea\u0022 data-id=\u0022f67fbf50d57e40bdab155a6feed77ea8\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000257\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022a68928ea-9dd8-4a30-8e2c-a0f49dfc8bea\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u0022f67fbf50d57e40bdab155a6feed77ea8\u0022\u003EHon LOUISE UPSTON (Minister for Land Information):\u003C/span\u003E I move, That the Land Transfer Amendment Bill and the Tax Administration Amendment Bill be now read a third time. These bills were divided in the Committee stage from the Taxation (Land Information and Offshore Persons Information) Bill. These bills enable improved compliance with tax laws by allowing for the collection of information to ensure that people who buy and sell property for profit, including overseas buyers and short-term speculators, pay their fair share of tax. They are part of a suite of measures announced as part of Budget 2015 to bolster the tax rules on property transactions, including those by overseas buyers, and to help the Inland Revenue Department enforce them. Taken together, these measures will help the Inland Revenue Department to enforce tax rules, provide it with extra resources, and ensure that property investors and speculators pay their fair share of tax, whether they are from New Zealand or from overseas. Everyone here will agree that it is perfectly reasonable to expect that anyone who has an obligation to pay tax does so. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000258\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022a68928ea-9dd8-4a30-8e2c-a0f49dfc8bea\u0022\u003EThe Land Transfer Amendment Bill supports the new brightline test set out in another bill currently before the House. The brightline test supplements the Inland Revenue Department\u2019s current intentions test. Under this test, gains from residential properties sold within 2 years of purchase will be taxed unless the property is the seller\u2019s main home, inherited from a deceased person\u2019s estate, or transferred as part of a relationship property settlement. The bill collects the information needed to support tax measures. It therefore, rightly, focuses on those who have or are likely to have tax obligations. Therefore, the bill provides an exemption from the need to provide tax numbers when you are buying or selling your home. Those people are not speculators and they have no tax obligations, so that information is not needed. There is no need for us to unfairly impact on New Zealand owner-occupiers who have worked hard and saved to buy a family home. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000259\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022a68928ea-9dd8-4a30-8e2c-a0f49dfc8bea\u0022\u003EThe bill acknowledges that some of us own more than one property, but only one of them can be the main home. To help people identify which is their main home in these circumstances, the bill includes a greatest connection test. This test is drawn from case law and will be supported by advice and guidance. Although it is not a register of foreign property-owners, it will help us better understand the residential property market and inform housing policy according. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000260\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022a68928ea-9dd8-4a30-8e2c-a0f49dfc8bea\u0022\u003ETo better understand who is buying and selling houses in New Zealand, the bill provides for the asking of two questions. First, whether a buyer or seller, or a member of their immediate family, is a New Zealand citizen or holds either a resident, work, or student visa. The second question is whether or not they intend to live at the property being transferred. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000261\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022a68928ea-9dd8-4a30-8e2c-a0f49dfc8bea\u0022\u003EThe Tax Administration Amendment Bill contains important measures to support New Zealand\u2019s anti - money-laundering initiatives. To ensure that our anti - money-laundering rules apply to non-residents before they buy a property, the bill requires offshore persons to provide a bank account number in order to get a New Zealand IRD number. Both bills will apply only to contracts entered into on or after 1 October 2015. The information will have to be provided after 1 April 2016, irrespective of when the contract was entered into. This means that it will apply only to new contracts that have gone unconditional after the commencement date of 1 October. It will give people time to comply with the requirements of this bill. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000262\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022a68928ea-9dd8-4a30-8e2c-a0f49dfc8bea\u0022\u003ENew Zealanders have a right to know that everyone who should pay tax does pay tax. These bills will make sure that this happens. I commend these bills to the House.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u00226007dc96-f459-4cdd-9972-4fde2c994088\u0022 data-id=\u0022318ef04d81864d789a1c1427414e8bc7\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000263\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00226007dc96-f459-4cdd-9972-4fde2c994088\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u0022318ef04d81864d789a1c1427414e8bc7\u0022\u003EGRANT ROBERTSON (Labour\u2014Wellington Central):\u003C/span\u003E Well, what better testament to a Government that is not straight-up with New Zealanders and is out of touch with New Zealanders could there be than this piece of legislation? It is the ultimate in window dressing. It is the ultimate in appearing to do something while doing as little as possible, or, as some colleagues have said, it is deliberately doing that\u2014deliberately making sure that the regime put in place through this legislation will not work. That is probably the less charitable interpretation\u2014that it is deliberately being put forward so that it will fail to achieve the goal that the Minister just told us she had, which is to get more information about who is buying and selling houses in New Zealand\u2014or it could be just pure incompetence. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000264\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00226007dc96-f459-4cdd-9972-4fde2c994088\u0022\u003EWe saw this from the get-go with this piece of legislation. It was brought forward at the time of the Budget, when the Government was under significant pressure to do something about housing. What the Government realised was that there was nothing in the Budget on housing, and so at the last minute it had to come up with two ideas\u2014two ideas to scratch the political itch, but not do too much lest it offend the Property Investors Association, or whoever else it is that National was worried about offending. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000265\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00226007dc96-f459-4cdd-9972-4fde2c994088\u0022\u003EThis piece of legislation should have been the legislation that did give New Zealanders accurate information about who is buying and selling houses, so that we can use that to make better public policy. Today, at the Finance and Expenditure Committee, the Reserve Bank Governor himself raised his concerns about the number of property purchases being made by speculators\u2014the fact that it has increased over the last year from 33 percent to 41 percent, according to the Quotable Value data. It is a problem. Everybody in this House knows it is a problem. The piece of information missing is how big a problem, and these bills would have been the piece of legislation that could bring that information in front of New Zealanders and give us that information. But this Government has failed to do that. It was rushed. There was nothing in the pre-Budget documentation that was released in July about this piece of policy work because it has not been thought through properly. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000266\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00226007dc96-f459-4cdd-9972-4fde2c994088\u0022\u003EJust how bad it was was revealed last night in this House, when my colleague Dr David Clark and I tabled information released to us by Land Information New Zealand that showed that the implementation date of 1 October\u2014the commencement date of this legislation\u2014means that for 3 months all information collected for the Landonline database will be done by pen and paper. It is not the 1960s; it is actually the 2010s, and the members on that side of the House are not ready. Land Information New Zealand, I suspect\u2014and, actually, this is being generous\u2014may not be ready by 1 December, either. So now we have this great advance in the information about who is buying and selling houses in New Zealand, and Land Information New Zealand has to do it with pen and paper because it is not ready. This is half-baked, poorly thought through, and it is not being straight-up with New Zealanders. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000267\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00226007dc96-f459-4cdd-9972-4fde2c994088\u0022\u003EThis legislation was a knee-jerk reaction to what is a significant problem. So what do we have left in front of us, then, in such poor lawmaking? We have an inching, grudging step by the Government in the right direction\u2014the idea that people actually can contribute their IRD number. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000268\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00226007dc96-f459-4cdd-9972-4fde2c994088\u0022\u003EAn exemption was put in place by the Government. The exemption is for the main home. The justification for that exemption was outlined in the Government\u2019s commentary on the original bill, and I want to quote from it: \u201C\u2026 the majority of us accept that not making such an exemption for the main home would greatly increase the volume of information to be managed by Land Information New Zealand at the Inland Revenue Department, and could lead to people worrying needlessly that the transaction will be taxable, even though in most cases it would not be.\u201D That is complete rubbish. Virtually everybody in New Zealand buying their main home already has an IRD number. It is a simple moment for the conveyancing lawyer, a new box on the form\u2014there it is, IRD number written in, information provided\u2014but, instead, a giant loophole has been set up in this law by the National Government by exempting the main home. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000269\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00226007dc96-f459-4cdd-9972-4fde2c994088\u0022\u003EIt then made that exemption even worse by using the definition for \u201Cmain home\u201D to be the place with which people have the \u201Cgreatest connection\u201D. Again, in the Government\u2019s own commentary on the bill it said: \u201CWe note that the term \u2018greatest connection\u2019 is not used in New Zealand tax law at present. \u2026 We recognise that there could be some confusion about the rules,\u201D. This is the Government\u2019s own law, and it is saying in the commentary on the legislation that was brought before this House that there is going to be confusion. That is not the point of making law\u2014do I need to say that to the Government benches? The point of making law is to clear up confusion, not create confusion, but that is what it has managed to do with this exemption. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000270\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00226007dc96-f459-4cdd-9972-4fde2c994088\u0022\u003EWe had it clarified for us by Alistair Scott, the member for Wairarapa. He clarified that the greatest connection for him was the feeling. He said that the main home was where the heart was. He said that in the House last night\u2014the main home is where the heart is. So not only do we have confusion; we have the Hallmark card guide to lawmaking: take it from the vibe, the feeling\u2014that is where you main home is. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000271\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00226007dc96-f459-4cdd-9972-4fde2c994088\u0022\u003EThis is a complete farce. The exemption for the main home is unnecessary, it creates a loophole, it means we do not have the kind of data that we should, and the definition of that being the place where someone has the greatest connection is, as the Government itself acknowledges, confused and is poor law. Mark my words: we will be back here changing that and correcting that because the definition simply will not be adequate. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000272\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00226007dc96-f459-4cdd-9972-4fde2c994088\u0022\u003EBut having had such deep concern about the bureaucracy and the added compliance of people having to provide an IRD number for their main home purchase, at the other end of this legislation the Government has managed to put in unnecessary compliance by asking offshore persons making purchases to provide both a bank account number and an IRD number. The advice that was given to the Ministers by the Inland Revenue Department was that this was of limited benefit because the Inland Revenue Department has the power to require relevant identity verification upon application for an IRD number. So that was the advice that the Inland Revenue Department gave to the Government\u2014it does not need the bank account number. Interestingly, the Inland Revenue Department also said that it should not exempt the main home, either. Two pieces of very sensible advice from the Inland Revenue Department, ignored by the Government. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000273\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00226007dc96-f459-4cdd-9972-4fde2c994088\u0022\u003EIt is interesting because I suspect that Todd McClay, and possibly Louise Upston, actually went to their Cabinet colleagues and said: \u201CListen, we\u2019ve had this advice from the Inland Revenue Department. We think it\u2019s pretty sensible. We\u2019re going to go through with it.\u201D That is what I think probably happened here, but then they were rolled. They were rolled at Cabinet by those who thought: \u201CWe\u2019d better be a bit careful about those property investors who support us. We\u2019d better watch out for them.\u201D So they rolled over and ignored the Inland Revenue Department\u2019s advice, and now we have a situation where we have unnecessary bureaucracy on one hand and a failure to get the correct information on the other. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000274\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00226007dc96-f459-4cdd-9972-4fde2c994088\u0022\u003ENew Zealanders do deserve to know more about who is buying and selling property in this country. Speculators, be they both onshore and offshore, are forcing young New Zealanders out of being able to buy their first home. That core element of the New Zealand dream, of being able to get in there and buy your piece of property, is now priced far out of the capability of many people. In Auckland we have a house price to income ratio of 9:1\u2014of 9:1. That puts Auckland in amongst the top 10 most expensive housing markets in the world. That is the situation we are facing here at the moment. That is what happens when property speculation runs riot. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000275\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00226007dc96-f459-4cdd-9972-4fde2c994088\u0022\u003EWe need good quality information so that we can make the judgments about what public policy response we should have and how we can crack down on speculators, but this Government does not want to know about that. This Government has put up the weakest possible law that it could in this area. It is hopeless. It is one small, tiny step towards what we should be doing and, therefore, we will vote for it because it is one small, tiny step towards what we should be doing, but we could be doing so much better than this. We could be giving New Zealanders the information that they need. We could be creating a system that is low on compliance and high on quality of data, but that is not what this legislation is.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u0022eaf79431-1033-44f1-a633-22633da52c0d\u0022 data-id=\u00220d394150ae4c4cf1af5f1eb3e557d602\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000276\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022eaf79431-1033-44f1-a633-22633da52c0d\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u00220d394150ae4c4cf1af5f1eb3e557d602\u0022\u003EDAVID BENNETT (National\u2014Hamilton East):\u003C/span\u003E It is good to see that the Labour Party members are voting for this legislation. It is quite different from what they have done for the last\u2014when they were in Government for 9 years they did nothing in this area, absolutely nothing. This Government has done something, and it is more than the Labour Party ever will do. The Labour Party sat there for 9 years in Government and never even thought about doing anything like this. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000277\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022eaf79431-1033-44f1-a633-22633da52c0d\u0022\u003EThe property market has not just created itself; it has been going on for many years. The Auckland property market has had major increases in prices under the Labour Government, and it did nothing\u2014did nothing at all. Then Labour members have the gall to come into this House and say that this legislation is not enough, when they did nothing. That is the nature of the Labour Party in this area. They did nothing, zero, squat. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000278\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022eaf79431-1033-44f1-a633-22633da52c0d\u0022\u003EBut then what would the Labour Party have done? The Labour Party one day wanted to have a capital gains tax, and took it to the election, and then its leader said no, no capital gains tax. So what are the Labour Party members going to do? The Labour Party has still got nothing. Labour members have got nothing that they would do now. Their plan was for a capital gains tax, and then they threw it away. Andrew Little threw it away after the election. He threw away the capital gains tax. So the Labour Party has got nothing. Labour did nothing, and will always do nothing because it has got no plans in this area. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000279\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022eaf79431-1033-44f1-a633-22633da52c0d\u0022\u003EPhil Twyford is sitting there. I want to see Phil Twyford get up and talk about the new housing policy that David Clark mentioned last night. David Clark told us this week that you have to live in New Zealand to own a home. David Clark\u2019s policy is that if somebody\u2014\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000280\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00225f1453f8-c44e-4ce6-b699-64d600322276\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022901606a84d1e429e9393f36a02bf13bd\u0022\u003EMr DEPUTY SPEAKER\u003C/span\u003E: Come to the bill.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000281\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022eaf79431-1033-44f1-a633-22633da52c0d\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u00226cea424f97224e7a8594ccb5c60ac8ed\u0022\u003EDAVID BENNETT\u003C/span\u003E: \u2014is not living in New Zealand, they do not have the ability to own their own home. They have to sell it. That is the Labour Party policy. That is what David Clark said in this House this week. He is about nothing\u2014\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000282\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022b2567d3e-a09c-47b4-bd50-2f5bb4049762\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u002277c1786b41924a6f8677b62a5471568d\u0022\u003ESue Moroney\u003C/span\u003E: I raise a point of order, Mr Speaker. I think that we are about, oh, 2\u00BD minutes into this speech, and we have not heard anything about the legislation yet. Could you bring the speaker back to the purpose of the legislation, please?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000283\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00225f1453f8-c44e-4ce6-b699-64d600322276\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022aa839a203fff4038993cadf488d7089d\u0022\u003EMr DEPUTY SPEAKER\u003C/span\u003E: You have made your point of order. Please take your seat. I call David Bennett, and ask him to remember that he is speaking on the legislation arising from the Taxation (Land Information and Offshore Persons Information) Bill.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000284\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022eaf79431-1033-44f1-a633-22633da52c0d\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u002204ab0344fea448ceace6f59344c88eb3\u0022\u003EDAVID BENNETT\u003C/span\u003E: Yes, Mr Deputy Speaker. That bill is a very important bill because what we are doing in that bill is we are asking for IRD numbers and getting people to register. Opposition members said that that was too little, too late. Well, they did nothing when they had the chance, and they do nothing now, because they have thrown away all their policies in this area, apart from the new policy that David Clark came out with, and that is that you have to live in New Zealand to own a home. That is the Labour Party members\u2019 approach to this bill when they talk about it doing much more in this area. This is a good bill. It is actually part of a suite of measures in this area, and we commend it to the House.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u00225bbd9f26-fdb0-4b85-a836-0fc46e1bba3c\u0022 data-id=\u0022bb2cc8c392ee49dbb0a3cf98ff8aff8a\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000285\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00225bbd9f26-fdb0-4b85-a836-0fc46e1bba3c\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u0022bb2cc8c392ee49dbb0a3cf98ff8aff8a\u0022\u003EDr DAVID CLARK (Labour\u2014Dunedin North):\u003C/span\u003E I do take the focus of the last member\u2019s speech on my every utterance on this bill to date as some kind of flattery. It is, I guess, the only area that he is going to find some substance to speak about, because we have heard nothing from that member about the bill.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000286\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00225bbd9f26-fdb0-4b85-a836-0fc46e1bba3c\u0022\u003EBut on to the bill, because I think that it is important. It is important that we understand what this bill does and does not do, because as a Parliament we are going to be required\u2014I have little doubt\u2014to come back and fix this mess. The history is there of bills such as this one, that have not got the systems in place behind them to deliver, and then require further parliamentary legislation.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000287\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00225bbd9f26-fdb0-4b85-a836-0fc46e1bba3c\u0022\u003EWe know that it is a flawed bill. We know that it is not going to capture all the information that would actually be useful to capture, and a widening of its scope would also require a visit back to Parliament. We know that each bill that goes through Parliament, from memory, costs over $1 million in terms of staff time, in terms of the researchers\u2014in terms of all of those things. It seems kind of crazy that we as a Parliament would put something through like this\u2014that the Government would be so out of touch with New Zealand that it would put something through like this, without recognising that it could have done a much better job. It seems arrogant to take that approach, but that is what we are seeing more and more from this Government.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000288\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00225bbd9f26-fdb0-4b85-a836-0fc46e1bba3c\u0022\u003EWe do support the policy objective of gathering information on offshore residential homebuyers, but, because of the loopholes in this legislation, we think that it will not prove particularly effective in gathering data that will be of use for making policy decisions in the future. We know that Auckland house prices are out of control. They rank on world unaffordability tables, and we know that something needs to be done. But here is a Government designing window dressing measures, rather than actually addressing the nub of the problem: to bring those house prices down, to ensure that New Zealand families can afford homes in their own country so that that Kiwi dream of homeownership is kept alive, to earn decent wages, and the other things that have been undermined by this Government.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000289\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00225bbd9f26-fdb0-4b85-a836-0fc46e1bba3c\u0022\u003EThe register of buyers, as it is proposed by the Government, proposes exemptions for the main home. It will increase compliance costs and create loopholes in the way that this is defined, and in the data collection measures. Let us for a minute consider what this new \u201Cgreatest connection\u201D test might mean. I suspect that we will hear soon from Alastair Scott again about the feeling\u2014you know, \u201Cthe vibe\u201D; maybe \u201Chome is where the heart is\u201D\u2014and we will ask ourselves, if Alastair Scott finally bought a house in his own electorate, would his feeling be in that house, or in the house that he lives in in Wellington? I know from talking to Kieran McAnulty, who runs in the Wairarapa as Labour\u2019s candidate\u2014a very strong candidate\u2014that his heart is there, where he lives, in the Wairarapa. He has run a strong campaign against Mr Scott, who is seen as being a candidate from elsewhere, and it is very hard to believe that the sense of connection is so great when he chooses to live somewhere else\u2014I mean it really is hard to understand.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000290\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00225f1453f8-c44e-4ce6-b699-64d600322276\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u002268362d8dc6b94d2a81ff4b0def005b20\u0022\u003EMr DEPUTY SPEAKER\u003C/span\u003E: Maybe it is your turn to come to the bill.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000291\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00225bbd9f26-fdb0-4b85-a836-0fc46e1bba3c\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u00225e568688febb4583ad1f78ee160ec1d7\u0022\u003EDr DAVID CLARK\u003C/span\u003E: Thank you, Mr Deputy Speaker. But, joking aside, I think this is a very serious issue. It is not defined in law what the \u201Cgreatest connection\u201D to a property means.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000292\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00225bbd9f26-fdb0-4b85-a836-0fc46e1bba3c\u0022\u003EWe are here creating unclear law. We are creating law that is going to require the courts to address it, or Parliament to fix it. That is crazy stuff from our Parliament; that is crazy stuff from this Government, which is really focused on the window dressing and not on actually delivering a solution that will make a difference for New Zealanders, for Aucklanders facing those crazy house prices, and for the New Zealand economy where, in real value, wages have dropped. Wages are in recession right now, in the last quarter, if you look at it that way. This is an economy that has stalled. It is an economy with a Government that has not managed it; has not diversified it. We have got multiple problems, and yet we have this kind of half measure\u2014this kind of watered-down measure\u2014as a proposal.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000293\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00225bbd9f26-fdb0-4b85-a836-0fc46e1bba3c\u0022\u003EWe know it was rushed through, we know it was announced at the last minute, and that is why there are so many inadequacies in the legislation. I refer here, especially, to the material that was tabled last night in the House that outlines the period of time in diagrammatic form from Land Information New Zealand that it is expected that these records of buyers will be recorded by hand\u2014handwriting; there will be officials handwriting for 3 months.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000294\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00225bbd9f26-fdb0-4b85-a836-0fc46e1bba3c\u0022\u003EI would also like to point out a point that was not raised. In the fine print here it says \u201CEven under ideal conditions, LINZ cannot guarantee with this legislation passing in August\u201D\u2014and we are already beyond August\u2014\u201Cthat the desired changes can be efficiently and effectively implemented by 1 October.\u201D This scenario we have been presented with\u2014with officials writing this foreign buyer register by hand\u2014is an extremely optimistic scenario. It says that. It says in the points to note underneath the scenario that has been drawn up by officials: \u201CThe dates and the time frames in this time line are based on the best-case scenario and are highly dependent on a range of parties agreeing to work at a very fast pace.\u201D I do not hesitate to say that that also requires nothing to go wrong in the process.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000295\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00225bbd9f26-fdb0-4b85-a836-0fc46e1bba3c\u0022\u003EThis is a rushed process. The Government knew it was under pressure. It introduced some half-baked measures to make it look like it was doing something on housing, but, of course, whomever it was trying not to offend\u2014the property speculators in Auckland that it is associated with\u2014it did not want to offend them, and it did not want to put through legislation that actually made a difference, and here we are in the Parliament now, passing cynical legislation.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000296\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00225bbd9f26-fdb0-4b85-a836-0fc46e1bba3c\u0022\u003EIn my view, it does not achieve what it ought to achieve, and it costs the taxpayer money to put it into place. It will increase compliance costs, and not produce the outcome that was its originally stated purpose. It does create some small bit of information, and that is why we will be forced to support it\u2014because it is a small, tiny step in the right direction\u2014but it is needlessly weak. These half measures could be made so much better if a proper bill was adopted. If the Treasury advice was taken on how this package was put together, it would have been way more effective. The Government departments were very clear that the Government was not achieving the things that it had verbally said it wanted to achieve, and we know that we are going to have to revisit it. It is from a Government that has been more and more often afraid or deliberately not straight-up with New Zealanders, and we on this side of the House recognise that that is not a long-term strategy.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000297\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00225bbd9f26-fdb0-4b85-a836-0fc46e1bba3c\u0022\u003EI want to also highlight some of the quotes from recent times that point to just what a rushed piece of legislation it is. John Key said: \u201CWe are not hostile to the idea of a register, we just don\u2019t think it takes you very far.\u201D John Key said: \u201CI genuinely don\u2019t know. We haven\u2019t asked for any work on a register.\u201D John Key said: \u201CIt\u2019s quite a tricky thing, the register. It\u2019s not quite as straightforward as people think. So we\u2019re not afraid of a register.\u201D He said: \u201CI wouldn\u2019t want to say never do anything forever, because that would be a bit silly.\u201D He said: \u201CWe are not sort of absolutely resolute that it\u2019s such a terrible idea. We just think that we have fairly good information already.\u201D Well, if the Prime Minister believes that, why on earth are we here again today? If he believes that the information is good, why would we be here again today? Of course, the answer is that this is a politically driven bill; it is not designed to actually solve the problem that we have been given.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000298\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00225bbd9f26-fdb0-4b85-a836-0fc46e1bba3c\u0022\u003ENick Smith\u2014again, some wonderful quotes from Nick Smith. A register would be \u201Ca distraction\u201D that would cost \u201Cmega millions without doing a thing to tackle house price inflation.\u201D\u2014this is Nick Smith, of course, before the legislation. It is a real shame he is not here making a speech to explain how he has come to his current position. He is probably out researching housing sites in cemeteries in Auckland. Or maybe he is out looking\u2014\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000299\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022cbc37df2-57ae-4536-94ed-a2e39eecd585\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u00229c6f8c04f0ea476da9419efb719b47ea\u0022\u003EPhil Twyford\u003C/span\u003E: Power stations.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000300\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00225bbd9f26-fdb0-4b85-a836-0fc46e1bba3c\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u00222b6f59834fb049ddadbae851634ab16e\u0022\u003EDr DAVID CLARK\u003C/span\u003E: \u2014for power stations to build them next to. It is hard to know. Nick Smith also said \u201CThis is just about politics. It would be a waste of public money.\u201D, and here we are doing it.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000301\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00225bbd9f26-fdb0-4b85-a836-0fc46e1bba3c\u0022\u003EThis Government is at sixes and sevens. It is so obvious, when you look back at the quotes, that this is a politically inspired move, not a solution to a public policy problem. Then\u2014Nick Smith again: \u201CI do stand by my statement that a register would be a waste of money.\u201D We have Nick Smith saying it over and over again. I could go on. There are so many quotes. Let us have one more\u2014let us have one more: \u201CIt is a non-issue. It has not changed in the 5 years that we\u2019ve been in Government. Let us focus on the things that matter.\u201D That is Nick Smith arguing why we should not be here today. But here we are, working a bill through the House that officials have said will not work anyway.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000302\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00225bbd9f26-fdb0-4b85-a836-0fc46e1bba3c\u0022\u003EIt is a bill that is a political solution to a public policy problem. We will be back here to fix it. It is a damned shame that this Government has not seen fit to actually\u2014actually\u2014address the Auckland housing crisis. It has not seen fit to look after the interests of the economy by tackling that problem as well. It is a Government that is out of ideas, I am afraid; out of touch, and arrogant enough that it thinks it can put this through Parliament without any protest. Well, New Zealanders are getting wise to this Government, and I think that when we come back here, they will not be happy.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u00225e6b7aaa-8157-4d5e-9940-1bdbcd61ae95\u0022 data-id=\u0022770fef498fa14591a2918dcd0d009f7d\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000303\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00225e6b7aaa-8157-4d5e-9940-1bdbcd61ae95\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u0022770fef498fa14591a2918dcd0d009f7d\u0022\u003EALASTAIR SCOTT (National\u2014Wairarapa):\u003C/span\u003E In responding to Dr Clark\u2019s comments and his reasons to perhaps postpone the passing of this legislation as far as\u2014and rending handwriting as some sort of impediment to slow the progress of this bill down just demonstrates his attitude to what is simply work. If it is too hard, just do not do it. I suspect that that is his attitude to work\u2014if it is too hard, do not do it. This bill will pass, whether some articles need to be handwritten or not. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000304\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00225e6b7aaa-8157-4d5e-9940-1bdbcd61ae95\u0022\u003EThis bill is around gathering information, relevant information, and the information that relates to people owning their own homes is not relevant. It is not relevant. We are after real information on who is buying and selling property with a view to making a profit. This bill is supporting what is already legislation, which is about taxing people who buy a property with the intention to sell for a profit. That is all it is doing, but this bill is the gathering of the information. So what we are going to end up with is real information, real facts, and real numbers around who is buying and selling property in New Zealand. It is not going to be made up. It is not going to be created or sought from a friendly real estate agent. It is not going to be statistically incorrect\u2014that is Mr Twyford\u2019s plan, to gather information. He just makes it up. He asks a friendly real estate agent and blames the Chinese\u2014anyone with a Chinese name\u2014for housing speculation. This bill allows us to gather real data so that we can make informed decisions and reinforce the existing legislation around taxing property speculation fairly. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000305\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00225e6b7aaa-8157-4d5e-9940-1bdbcd61ae95\u0022\u003EThis bill is part of a suite of legislation that exempts the family home. There is simply no point in gathering information regarding the family home, given that the family home is an exemption to the taxation rules. This is a very good part of a comprehensive suite of legislation dealing with offshore ownership of property, and I commend it to the House.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u002258f935f1-6646-40ab-9d99-17029396850c\u0022 data-id=\u0022e23054998cb447ec853f8d89751b8354\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000306\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002258f935f1-6646-40ab-9d99-17029396850c\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u0022e23054998cb447ec853f8d89751b8354\u0022\u003EJULIE ANNE GENTER (Green):\u003C/span\u003E The Green Party is interested in creating an economy that is cleaner, greener, and works for all New Zealanders, not just those who are already doing really well. To that end, we need a simpler, fairer tax system, and we need to ensure that there are not loopholes like the ones that have been partially driving the out-of-control housing market in Auckland. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000307\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002258f935f1-6646-40ab-9d99-17029396850c\u0022\u003EThere are multiple factors at play in Auckland. One of them is the fact that we treat tax on capital very differently than we do the tax on income that you get from\u2014well, we treat it differently than on labour. So people go to work\u2014they are a nurse or a doctor\u2014and earn a pay cheque. An engineer, a teacher\u2014whatever they are, they have to pay tax on their income. But if one person buys a house and later sells it and makes $100,000, as is regularly happening right now in Auckland, no tax is paid on that income. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000308\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002258f935f1-6646-40ab-9d99-17029396850c\u0022\u003EThere is an intention test where we say: \u201CWell, if the house was purchased specifically with the intention of making a profit, then you should pay tax on it. But if you don\u2019t have that intention, one doesn\u2019t pay tax on that.\u201D So now the Government is trying to ensure that people who are buying and selling within a short period of time will be subject to that tax if it is not their main home, and so there are several bills that are going to enable this to happen. One is the Taxation (Bright-line Test for Residential Land) Bill, which is currently before a select committee. That means that anyone who buys or sells property within 2 years for investment purposes will be subject to tax. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000309\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002258f935f1-6646-40ab-9d99-17029396850c\u0022\u003EBut in order to carry this out, we needed information. The Inland Revenue Department, in its regulatory impact statement on the original bill, the Taxation (Land Information and Offshore Persons Information) Bill, states: \u201CAlthough we do have provisions that impose income tax on certain property transactions, and also on rental income earned from property, it is very difficult to assess compliance because there is no linkage between the property sales transaction data and tax identification.\u201D \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000310\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002258f935f1-6646-40ab-9d99-17029396850c\u0022\u003ESo this bill exists to now require a tax identification number if the person is from overseas or an IRD number here in New Zealand on all property transactions, except it does not. It would be really useful if it did, because it would give us a lot of data and there are no real compliance costs associated with it. In the regulatory impact statement, it says \u201CCollecting an IRD number and linking that to the LINZ property sales transaction data would maybe take an extra 1 to 4 minutes for conveyancers.\u201D, and it may, I think, add $1 to $4 to the cost of the transaction. It is a transaction that obviously costs a lot more than that. So it is a tiny percentage overall. But it would be incredibly useful and actually simplify our ability and the officials\u2019 ability at the Inland Revenue Department and at Land Information New Zealand to understand who is buying and selling properties. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000311\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002258f935f1-6646-40ab-9d99-17029396850c\u0022\u003EWhat happened here\u2014and I am really disappointed about this process. It was, as other members have said, a truncated process, and maybe it is for that reason that this bill has been changed, I think, through the process\u2014or, at least, it does not reflect the advice provided by officials in the regulatory impact statement to exclude the main home from the IRD number. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000312\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002258f935f1-6646-40ab-9d99-17029396850c\u0022\u003EIt is really hard to explain how unbelievable it is that the Government has made the exemption for the IRD number. Yes, we understand, OK, that you are making an exemption for the main home in respect of the brightline test, but why would you do that with the IRD number, especially when, in the regulatory impact statement, the Inland Revenue Department says that its preferred option would be for it to apply to all property sales transactions? There are no additional compliance costs. That is something the Minister and members from the Government have claimed\u2014that somehow requiring the IRD number for people buying and selling their main home would add compliance costs\u2014but the regulatory impact statement says that the compliance costs would be maybe an additional minute of work for conveyancers, for maybe an additional $1 to $4. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000313\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002258f935f1-6646-40ab-9d99-17029396850c\u0022\u003EWhen the regulatory impact statement laid out the options, requiring IRD numbers and tax identification numbers to be provided to Land Information New Zealand for all property transactions was the preferred option. It said it \u201Cwould enhance Inland Revenue\u2019s abilities to enforce the income tax obligations of those who buy and sell New Zealand real property\u201D. It would also \u201Chelp prevent non-residents from evading foreign tax on their New Zealand land sale or purchase by ensuring that the foreign tax authority can match the transaction with the taxpayer.\u201D \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000314\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002258f935f1-6646-40ab-9d99-17029396850c\u0022\u003ESo it is a good idea. It makes sense. Yet for some reason when the bill came to the Finance and Expenditure Committee and when it came to the Committee stage it had this bizarre exemption for the main home. Submitters certainly did not suggest that the main home should be exempted. We heard from Chartered Accountants Australia and New Zealand, which said that, actually, this main home exemption does not make sense; it adds complexity to the rules and it means that we will have less complete information. We heard from Ernst and Young that the exemption should not be made and that it made it more complex. And here in the regulatory impact statement we see that it was the Inland Revenue Department\u2019s preferred option to just keep it simple: get the IRD number and tax identification number for all property transactions. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000315\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002258f935f1-6646-40ab-9d99-17029396850c\u0022\u003EIt makes sense, right? But no, this Government, for whatever reason, has chosen to make the rules more complicated. There is no reason to think there would be any additional compliance costs. As noted above, in the regulatory impact statement it says: \u201CA conveyancer is likely to spend an additional 1-5 minutes entering information into Landonline, resulting in an additional cost of between $4 and $20 for purchaser and seller.\u201D I know that under option 3\u2014that is the option that the Government has adopted, which was not recommended by officials and which was not particularly recommended by submitters, who are experts in this area\u2014compliance costs will be at the lower end of the scale for those exempted, but it makes the rules more complicated and it means that we have less information. So the benefits of collecting the information, which is the whole purpose of the legislation and is the purpose of the policy that the Government is implementing, are reduced under this option. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000316\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002258f935f1-6646-40ab-9d99-17029396850c\u0022\u003EUnder the brightline test there is a limit to how many times one can claim the main home exemption within 2 years. One can only do it twice, because, as it says in the regulatory impact statement: \u201Csome individuals who are purchasing their main home could still be subject to tax if they have a regular pattern of buying, improving, and selling their main home.\u201D So the way to solve that is the brightline test, which says that one is no longer exempt from the brightline test if it is one\u2019s third time buying and selling one\u2019s main home within 2 years. But, of course, how would we know that? How are officials supposed to know whether the buyer or seller has done it three times if they have not had the IRD number linked to the property transaction for the first two? \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000317\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002258f935f1-6646-40ab-9d99-17029396850c\u0022\u003EIt is a silly rule. It is a silly law. It adds complexity. It does not reduce compliance costs, and yet for some reason the Government voted against my Supplementary Order Paper 121, which I introduced yesterday, that would have removed the exemption for the main home from this legislation. Unfortunately, ACT\u2019s David Seymour voted against my Supplementary Order Paper, even though it was right in line with what submitters recommended, the charted accountants recommended, Ernst and Young recommended, and the officials recommended. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000318\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002258f935f1-6646-40ab-9d99-17029396850c\u0022\u003ESo, obviously, the Green Party is going to be supporting the legislation, but it is really a shame. It is a shame that lawmaking has come to this in this country\u2014that the National Government gives us so little time to scrutinise legislation to actually make good law. It cannot agree with other parties in the House that are simply trying to make better law. It has got nothing to do with any ideological perspective. We just want to accept the advice of officials and that of submitters and get good information to make it easier for us to enforce tax law. Instead, very typically of this National Government, you have crazy exemptions that do not make sense, that nobody recommended, and that have no good, solid, factual basis for their arguments. Yet those members come in here and say \u201COh, it\u2019s going to be less administration if we don\u2019t require people to supply their IRD number.\u201D, which takes about 30 seconds. So I am just sorry. I am sorry that yesterday, in the Committee stage, we could not get some cross-party agreement on what would have vastly improved this bill\u2014very, very sorry. Thanks.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u0022e11a5f05-1940-41b2-8f1e-911dba7a43a5\u0022 data-id=\u00220c532052e1814d408b1dbb4fabaf5d8d\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000319\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e11a5f05-1940-41b2-8f1e-911dba7a43a5\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u00220c532052e1814d408b1dbb4fabaf5d8d\u0022\u003EFLETCHER TABUTEAU (NZ First):\u003C/span\u003E Let us be clear, Mr Bishop, who is shaking his head and grinning at me, that this is a poor, poor response from this Government. The Government is singing from a song sheet, but when you look at the legislation arising from the Taxation (Land Information and Offshore Persons Information) Bill there is nothing in it. There is no substance, and you are told by your own experts that it will achieve absolutely nothing, even in combination with the other piece of legislation that was supposed to address the issue. Let us be clear. This is in response to what we all know to be a very serious housing price bubble in the Auckland property market. It is still ongoing. It has been growing almost exponentially month after month, and even\u2014some of the calculations are telling us\u2014day after day. It is moving at a staggering speed, and the problem for New Zealand First is that we already have this problem of Generation Rent and this is just increasing it day by day. It is a huge problem, and this legislation is doing nothing about it. Real New Zealanders are worried, and the National Party knows that its support base is worried. Here we now have a piece of legislation that, unfortunately, does not address the issue but will be spun out in the media, and the people of New Zealand will be placated and told that something is being done. But it is not. It is absolutely not. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000320\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e11a5f05-1940-41b2-8f1e-911dba7a43a5\u0022\u003EAlthough I am reticent to do this and am always reluctant to hold my colleagues on this side of the House to account, I can, unfortunately, say that over the last few days the Labour and the Green members have spoken more eloquently against this piece of legislation than I have. They have spoken about it being a waste of the piece of paper it is written on, and about how hollow it is and how full of loopholes it is, and, yet, here we are and New Zealand First is the only party in the House opposing this absolute waste of time, presented to us in the House by this National Government. I say to my colleagues on this side of the House, I have believed every word that you have said. You have said it eloquently. Stand behind your convictions and actually show New Zealanders what this piece of legislation is\u2014that it is a waste of time. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000321\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e11a5f05-1940-41b2-8f1e-911dba7a43a5\u0022\u003ENew Zealand First does support an initiative to increase tax, especially on overseas speculators, as outlined by the Minister for Land Information in her opening address. But the legislation does not actually do this. It has been rushed through with limited consultation and limited opportunity for New Zealanders to have their say. The legislation does not achieve this. The Government has been advised by its own experts that this legislation\u2014even combined with the brightline, or \u201Cdim-line\u201D bill, as I am so wont to call it\u2014will achieve absolutely nothing. It will not achieve anything. We have been told that by the Government\u2019s own experts. Land Information New Zealand also told this Government that it is not ready. It is not ready to process the data. It does not have the software. It does not have the information and communications technology to process this information, and, as has been so eloquently pointed out by members on this side of the House, it literally means that it will be writing out this information by hand. It just seems like a waste of time, when we know from the Government\u2019s own experts that this piece of legislation will not increase tax take and will not put any kind of stymie on overseas speculation in the market. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000322\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e11a5f05-1940-41b2-8f1e-911dba7a43a5\u0022\u003EThe main home exclusion\u2014we were told that New Zealanders would worry needlessly about having to present their IRD number, and, yet, of other parts of the legislation it was said \u201CWell, we\u2019ll have to tell New Zealanders what this means.\u201D, but the Government is not willing to tell them about it now. New Zealanders will not worry needlessly. It does not add complexity. It would be a straightforward tick of a box to add this information for all home purchases so that we can actually create a comprehensive land transfer database that produces meaningful information. In terms of the main home exclusion, we were told about the greatest connection test. The Minister in her opening address told us that they were going to use case law to help them implement it. Yet, the Government\u2019s own legal experts advised this Minister and the Finance and Expenditure Committee that there is no precedent in New Zealand law for this term\u2014absolutely no precedent in case law in New Zealand. It makes no sense whatsoever, and the confusion has already begun on that side of the House. The main home should not be exempt from this data collection. We want meaningful data. We can turn that into useful information. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000323\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e11a5f05-1940-41b2-8f1e-911dba7a43a5\u0022\u003ELet me just highlight a couple of points that I have spoken about earlier, in relation to this combined piece of legislation. There are exclusions. A speculator who buys a piece of rural land\u2014you know, the rural lot; a couple of acres that has a few sheep on it\u2014but who then decides to rent it out and then, for whatever reason, they decide to sell it within the 2-year brightline period is not included in this. Living in the property, doing it up, and then selling it within the 2-year brightline period\u2014it does not matter if you have got the information; you are not included in the tax provisions of that legislation. Speculators will not be identified. Then I put this to the Minister, actually: what are the provisions within this law, or even other pieces of legislation, for the actual collection of the tax burden required of those overseas speculators who did not actually manage to fall through the multitude of loopholes? Where is it that we will be able to actually go and collect that tax? It has been suggested to this Government that those people pay a bond on the purchase of their homes. Although I would not agree to overseas speculators buying homes in New Zealand at all, I think that you would not be able to implement that. It just makes no sense. We want to develop meaningful information. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000324\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e11a5f05-1940-41b2-8f1e-911dba7a43a5\u0022\u003EI just want to address something that Mr Bennett said earlier in the piece about Labour\u2019s shifting on capital gains. The problem with this piece of legislation is that what it is doing is actually adding another level of complexity to current and existing legislation. Without doubt, categorically, this Government has in place already a capital gains tax. It just chooses not to implement it, it chooses not to ask its appropriate ministry to implement it, and it chooses to call it by another name\u2014I do not know what. But the law says that if you make a gain on the sale of your property, you will pay a tax on that. If that is not a capital gains tax, I do not know what is. This Government simply chooses not to enforce it and here we are not only creating loopholes but adding more levels of complexity. It seems to be a contradiction in terms, but this Government in its absolute\u2014I do not want to say it\u2014has managed to do that. New Zealand First, unlike the rest of the side of this House, cannot support this legislation, even though its intent is something New Zealand First would like to see. It is truly a waste of this House\u2019s time. Thank you.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u002257e41e9d-285b-4fb3-847d-a63820ae7137\u0022 data-id=\u0022ae4b6cf9623e48bfaa49a00ea782d50e\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000325\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002257e41e9d-285b-4fb3-847d-a63820ae7137\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u0022ae4b6cf9623e48bfaa49a00ea782d50e\u0022\u003ECHRIS BISHOP (National):\u003C/span\u003E \u201CProfessor\u201D Tabuteau is a new member, as I am. We are both new to this House\u2014just coming up to our 1-year anniversary as members of this Parliament. But even I know that this Government has a very proud record of enforcing our existing tax law that, as Mr Tabuteau, rightly, points out, says that if you buy and sell property with the purpose of making a profit, you pay tax on it. Actually, as a Government we have significantly enhanced the ability of the Inland Revenue Department, both through funding and the logistical operations that sit behind that funding, to go after people who do that. So the allegation he made right at the end of his speech is completely incorrect. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000326\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002257e41e9d-285b-4fb3-847d-a63820ae7137\u0022\u003EIn my brief contribution to the debate this afternoon I want to focus on just a couple of points of contention that have come up so far in the discussion just before from Mr Robertson and from Miss Genter from the Greens. The first issue I want to just briefly canvass is this issue of why the main home is exempted from the requirement for people to supply their Inland Revenue Department information when a property transaction takes place. Miss Genter was very perplexed by this. She spent basically her entire speech with this quizzical, kind of querulous look on her face, and she kept saying: \u201CI don\u2019t understand why the Government\u2019s doing this. It makes no sense. It makes no sense. Why are they doing this? Why are they doing this?\u201D. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000327\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002257e41e9d-285b-4fb3-847d-a63820ae7137\u0022\u003EWell, there are a couple of good reasons why the Government has done this, and, actually, those reasons have been pointed out in the first reading debate, in the second reading debate, during the Committee of the whole House, and, indeed, in the third reading debate. Here they are again. The first and the most fundamental reason is that this legislation is companion legislation to the Taxation (Bright-line Test for Residential Land) Bill, which was sent to the Finance and Expenditure Committee only a couple of days ago. The brightline test will not apply to people who are buying and selling the main home. It is just not necessary for people who are buying and selling a main home, which means, in the vast bulk of circumstances in New Zealand, ordinary people buying and selling the family home, moving from one suburb to another, and moving from one city to another\u2014not buying and selling investment properties, but buying and selling their main home. The brightline test does not apply to them and it is not necessary for them to rock up every time they make a property transaction and supply their information to the Inland Revenue Department. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000328\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002257e41e9d-285b-4fb3-847d-a63820ae7137\u0022\u003EThat would lead to\u2014and this is the second reason\u2014having information supplied to Land Information New Zealand and to the Inland Revenue Department on hundreds and thousands of transactions. There are real concerns about how those organisations would be able to cope with that information and it is just simply not necessary. It would also mean that a lot of people would needlessly worry when they supply that information that they may be taxed on that transaction, when in the vast bulk of circumstances they are not going to be taxed on that transaction. That is the reason for the main home being exempted from the requirement to supply the IRD number. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000329\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002257e41e9d-285b-4fb3-847d-a63820ae7137\u0022\u003EThe second issue I want to briefly canvass is this issue of what the term \u201Cgreatest connection\u201D means. We heard some slightly strange assertions made by Grant Robertson before in the House and, indeed, I have been reading back through the Hansard of the first and second reading debates and members consistently misrepresent this position. Grant Robertson said that this is an invention\u2014that this is a new term and it is an invention. Well, that is a little bit trite, I have to say, because I suppose that new law\u2014all new law, all bills that are not on the statute book already\u2014and new phrases and new words that do not exist already on the statute book, by definition, are all inventions. I mean, that is actually the way Parliament makes law. We put a bill before Parliament and if it does not exist on the statute book already, then I guess it is an invention. So OK, maybe it is an invention but, you know, that is actually Parliament. Grant has been here a while, so it is slightly strange that he does not know that. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000330\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002257e41e9d-285b-4fb3-847d-a63820ae7137\u0022\u003EThen we heard in relation to this the allegation that there is no case law behind it, it is just an invention, the Government has just come up with this out of the middle of nowhere, there is no case law behind it, and it is absolutely unprecedented. Well, yes, it does not exist on the statute book already, but what Mr Robertson is ignoring\u2014and members have consistently ignored this point\u2014is that we heard advice in the Finance and Expenditure Committee that the phrase \u201Cgreatest connection\u201D, although it does not exist literally on the statute book now, has been carefully crafted to reflect existing case law that underlies that test. I have actually checked this with officials. There is a plethora of case law that will be used by the courts and used by the Inland Revenue Department to interpret this section. So it is not true for members opposite to say that there is no case law\u2014it is not true for members to say that there is no case law. There is case law and it will be used. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000331\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002257e41e9d-285b-4fb3-847d-a63820ae7137\u0022\u003EThen we heard from Mr Robertson that people will interpret this differently and it is really going to be a disaster. Dr Clark went so far as to say: \u201CI think that people like property speculators will interpret the \u2018main home\u2019 and the \u2018greatest connection\u2019 as the one where they make the most amount of money.\u201D Well, if speculators do that, if speculators try to game the law by saying that the house that they are buying and selling is where they have the greatest connection to and therefore is the main home and therefore exempt from the legislation, they will very quickly find, I suspect, that the Inland Revenue Department will come down on them like a ton of bricks, because that is not going to be a way of getting around the legislation. They will very quickly find that that is not a particularly smart thing to do. That suggestion is just really redolent of the inaccuracies from Dr Clark and others in their contributions today. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000332\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002257e41e9d-285b-4fb3-847d-a63820ae7137\u0022\u003EFinally, there is the suggestion that the Inland Revenue Department has suggested one thing and the Government has taken a different course. Well, actually, we do not have Government by the bureaucracy in this country. I made this point in my second reading speech. It was very rich, sitting here, to hear Julie Anne Genter saying: \u201CWell, the IRD says this and the IRD says that, and Treasury says this.\u201D Look, Labour and the Greens have been ignoring Treasury advice about the economy for pretty much the entire time that Treasury has been in existence. Dr Cullen used to come down to the House all the time and talk about ideological burps and how the Labour-led Government could not follow Treasury advice, and all sorts of things. Labour members made a virtue out of not following it, so it was bit strange to hear them lauding the work of the officials and lauding the work of the bureaucracy, saying: \u201COh my God! You must do this. The Government has been advised to do this and shame on the Government for not following their advice.\u201D If they were true to their word, then Labour and Green Party policies would certainly be in a lot different shape if they did actually follow the official advice on a range of matters. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000333\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002257e41e9d-285b-4fb3-847d-a63820ae7137\u0022\u003ELook, the point is that we do not have Government by the bureaucracy in this country. Ministers and Governments are entitled to take a different course. That is exactly what we have done. You weigh up the competing options. That is why we have Parliament; that is why we have Cabinet. This is good legislation and I commend it to House.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u0022893adc11-ce4e-419c-a079-08f04b3d75f5\u0022 data-id=\u00220d640cd3a290430fbf0cab93f31e2703\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000334\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022893adc11-ce4e-419c-a079-08f04b3d75f5\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u00220d640cd3a290430fbf0cab93f31e2703\u0022\u003EThe ASSISTANT SPEAKER (Lindsay Tisch)\u003C/span\u003E: I call Eugenie Sage\u20145 minutes.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u0022e122e0e6-61c6-4d17-9a79-6ad2ac7d127e\u0022 data-id=\u00229613b1c0e381459195254b5d3e2405ef\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000335\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e122e0e6-61c6-4d17-9a79-6ad2ac7d127e\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u00229613b1c0e381459195254b5d3e2405ef\u0022\u003EEUGENIE SAGE (Green):\u003C/span\u003E Well, Mr Bishop was indeed trying too hard and waxing lyrical. There is certainly a difference when Government takes a policy issue and does not take the advice of the public sector, but here this is a technical issue of tax law and the strong advice of the Inland Revenue Department and submitters was that this notion of \u201Cgreatest connection\u201D is too subjective and is going to cause confusion. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000336\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e122e0e6-61c6-4d17-9a79-6ad2ac7d127e\u0022\u003EIf he had read some of the submissions\u2014and I would just like to quote from Ernst and Young: \u201CWe are not aware of that term being used in any relevant New Zealand revenue legislation, so there is not any existing or accepted understanding of how it should be interpreted and applied. It is therefore open to various interpretations, assessment approaches and subjectivity where the relevant party has other residential land. Alternatives which come to mind include considering connection based on relative values, relative net worth, days spent there, history, sentiment or other connections with the specific location, region or New Zealand as a whole compared with residential land in any other jurisdiction.\u201D\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000337\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e122e0e6-61c6-4d17-9a79-6ad2ac7d127e\u0022\u003EWhen you have got that amount of potential for confusion and subjectivity and when you are dealing with tax law, it is not good law. We are supporting this because, as Mr Bennett said, something is better than nothing, but there is a great deal\u2014\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000338\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002247c29b78-eee0-4c91-afdf-7b07be780e1a\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022b427c3e6ca50462abc0165768e2b27b5\u0022\u003EDenis O\u2019Rourke\u003C/span\u003E: It is nothing!\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000339\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e122e0e6-61c6-4d17-9a79-6ad2ac7d127e\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u002257ff48e9d0e5493e8e2b1982766648e5\u0022\u003EEUGENIE SAGE\u003C/span\u003E: \u2014and I recognise the comments that New Zealand First made, but there is a need for a clear register of overseas land purchasers. The Government and the public have invested significantly in Landonline. It was described as a world first when we digitised paper land records and enabled the electronic filing of land titles and survey documents back in 2003. That came at substantial cost\u2014$141 million, I think\u2014and there was a substantial cost blowout. So when there has been that amount of public money invested in maintaining the land title database and when, as other speakers have noted, it would take a minute or so of a conveyancer\u2019s time to file the necessary transactions, why can we not have good law that provides good, solid information so that we have then got the information to inform good policy-making to control the overseas speculation in New Zealand property that is driving up house prices?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000340\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e122e0e6-61c6-4d17-9a79-6ad2ac7d127e\u0022\u003EInstead, with this legislation the Government, with this main home exemption and the failure to take the good technical advice of not only the Inland Revenue Department but also of submitters like Ernst and Young and others who have got specialist advice in tax law administration\u2014by failing to take that advice, we are not getting a good information base to drive good policy-making decisions. So that is one of our objections. The other one is the very wide regulation-making powers in the legislation to make some other property transfers exempt from the information requirements if it is impractical or if it involves high compliance costs, and to make regulations around what are non-notifiable transactions. That potentially leads to further loss of transparency in the transactions that are noted. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000341\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e122e0e6-61c6-4d17-9a79-6ad2ac7d127e\u0022\u003ESo we will support this legislation because it is a tiny step to having a register of land and house purchasers, and the extent to which overseas purchasers are involved in that, but Parliament should be making good law. The National Party in Government should have taken the advice of those who know about the technical administration and not had things like this main home exemption. We will support the legislation, but it has a number of defects and I suspect we will be back here remedying those. Thank you.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u0022893adc11-ce4e-419c-a079-08f04b3d75f5\u0022 data-id=\u0022459b6af952d8443c8784fb5362e5f120\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000342\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022893adc11-ce4e-419c-a079-08f04b3d75f5\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u0022459b6af952d8443c8784fb5362e5f120\u0022\u003EThe ASSISTANT SPEAKER (Lindsay Tisch)\u003C/span\u003E: I call David Seymour\u20145 minutes.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u00227e22bb95-9afb-449c-bcd2-de9fd4f2277c\u0022 data-id=\u0022f4323d006b574449bcab5aa535825f51\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000343\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00227e22bb95-9afb-449c-bcd2-de9fd4f2277c\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u0022f4323d006b574449bcab5aa535825f51\u0022\u003EDAVID SEYMOUR (Leader\u2014ACT):\u003C/span\u003E I rise on behalf of the ACT Party in support of this legislation. I just want to reflect a bit on the road that brought us to making this legislation. We do have in New Zealand very high house price to income ratios. In Auckland, where I am from, it is a ratio of almost nine between the median house price and the median income. When you have a problem in a political marketplace, sure enough a whole range of different remedies are provided. We saw a remedy from Mr Twyford, which was to blame people with Chinese-sounding names. It might interest the member to know that I have had reports of Chinese real estate agents on the North Shore who are using Labour\u2019s data to demonstrate that they really do have lots of demand from Chinese buyers. So sometimes in politics you create unintended consequences, but you do have to admire the entrepreneurship in particular of real estate agents and new New Zealanders, if that is who they happen to be. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000344\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00227e22bb95-9afb-449c-bcd2-de9fd4f2277c\u0022\u003EOf course, it is not just that the Labour Party has indulged in this demand side issue so far as the housing market is concerned; it also decided to engage in xenophobic racism. The New Zealand First Party, of course, has made it its stock-in-trade. Jacinda Ardern is horrified at what the party has done to her opportunities to compete in Auckland Central, and, of course, the Green Party only last week\u2014\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000345\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022893adc11-ce4e-419c-a079-08f04b3d75f5\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022d4d39d9bf569459b9920d2051e619014\u0022\u003EThe ASSISTANT SPEAKER (Lindsay Tisch)\u003C/span\u003E: Order! The member must come back to the content of the legislation.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000346\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00227e22bb95-9afb-449c-bcd2-de9fd4f2277c\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022f1b46edecc9c4a10a0d581d947864e9d\u0022\u003EDAVID SEYMOUR\u003C/span\u003E: I have one more sentence, Mr Assistant Speaker. Only last week Julie Anne Genter of all people, that doyenne of liberalism, also said that the problem is foreign capital. So we find ourselves here today trying to find a way to measure just how many of these nasty foreigners are on the demand side of this housing market. So the Government has found it necessary to do something to at least placate the howling masses on the other side of the House.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000347\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022cbc37df2-57ae-4536-94ed-a2e39eecd585\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u002297f3327096dc4bb9b88beafca7ee31cf\u0022\u003EPhil Twyford\u003C/span\u003E: Is that the point of this bill?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000348\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00227e22bb95-9afb-449c-bcd2-de9fd4f2277c\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u00222fbdfb045f0a4ad3993dd6bcfaa2ae4d\u0022\u003EDAVID SEYMOUR\u003C/span\u003E: That is the reality, Mr Twyford.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000349\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022cbc37df2-57ae-4536-94ed-a2e39eecd585\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022c7b46fea86d544e597f9e67ff1d760d5\u0022\u003EPhil Twyford\u003C/span\u003E: Is that what you think of it?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000350\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00227e22bb95-9afb-449c-bcd2-de9fd4f2277c\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u00223251d65c890940f78ae412c87c5e784a\u0022\u003EDAVID SEYMOUR\u003C/span\u003E: Yes, it is. Let us tell it like it is, Mr Twyford. Yes, of course, there are all sorts of loopholes that will never be properly policed. It will be very difficult to decide whether a lifestyle block is truly being farmed economically. It will be very difficult to decide what a person\u2019s greatest connection to\u2014\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000351\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e11a5f05-1940-41b2-8f1e-911dba7a43a5\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022056e042af16841f49e6c97a0530d92a1\u0022\u003EFletcher Tabuteau\u003C/span\u003E: What is a loophole?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000352\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00227e22bb95-9afb-449c-bcd2-de9fd4f2277c\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022d094bebe81574df6870b60a70771082a\u0022\u003EDAVID SEYMOUR\u003C/span\u003E: You are just shocked because you have never seen a politician tell the truth before, especially in your party.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000353\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022893adc11-ce4e-419c-a079-08f04b3d75f5\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u00220f874226df914f06b4982c055fc70ebc\u0022\u003EThe ASSISTANT SPEAKER (Lindsay Tisch)\u003C/span\u003E: No. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000354\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00227e22bb95-9afb-449c-bcd2-de9fd4f2277c\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022ee07bb88c95848e6b80023e739619d22\u0022\u003EDAVID SEYMOUR\u003C/span\u003E: Sorry, Mr Assistant Speaker.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000355\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022893adc11-ce4e-419c-a079-08f04b3d75f5\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022a887e8d9e3e2474f8e9a4f1c2ac571f2\u0022\u003EThe ASSISTANT SPEAKER (Lindsay Tisch)\u003C/span\u003E: The member will sit. To make an allegation like that is unparliamentary and I will ask the member to withdraw and apologise for it.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000356\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00227e22bb95-9afb-449c-bcd2-de9fd4f2277c\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u00223ef4bad944564a37a54132d7c3040614\u0022\u003EDAVID SEYMOUR\u003C/span\u003E: I withdraw and apologise. We also have to consider in this case the costs and benefits of regulation. We heard from a member earlier: \u201CLet\u2019s have more compliance costs. Let\u2019s have more administration. It\u2019s only a few dollars more.\u201D Well, I actually believe that given the unsavoury political prerogatives created by some of the simpler Opposition members and, more latterly, by the usually sophisticated ones, this legislation strikes the right balance of allowing people who wish to buy and sell homes to go about their business most of the time but only when they get into a very large quantity of on-selling or speculation, as some may call it. They find themselves so far over a so-called brightline that their activity will end up being recorded, will clearly be in contravention of the law. So the worst extreme of what some people are concerned about as speculation, will finally find itself reined in with minimal costs to compliance on the part of every other Kiwi who is fair-minded, who actually welcomes foreigners and the fact that we are a multicultural nation, and who wants to go about their business without being caught up in excessive compliance costs. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000357\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00227e22bb95-9afb-449c-bcd2-de9fd4f2277c\u0022\u003EWith that, I commend this legislation to the House.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u0022859e13f9-33bb-41bb-b2f0-d848eaf25407\u0022 data-id=\u00223f8a625b39e0412aab0c5b2db27f16b3\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000358\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022859e13f9-33bb-41bb-b2f0-d848eaf25407\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u00223f8a625b39e0412aab0c5b2db27f16b3\u0022\u003EANDREW BAYLY (National\u2014Hunua):\u003C/span\u003E I am not going to spend too long talking about this legislation arising from the Taxation (Land Information and Offshore Persons Information) Bill this afternoon. But it is a little bit of a shame that we have got a number of speakers talking this afternoon who obviously have not spoken in the previous debate nor, in fact, have listened very carefully to what has gone on during the course of this legislation, as it has worked its way through the House. At the end of the day this legislation is about protecting New Zealand\u2019s tax base and making sure that every person pays their fair share of tax. The underlying theme is that if you are trading in residential property, then you have to pay tax. I heard one speaker just a moment ago describe it as a capital gains tax. It is not a capital gains tax; it is a reinforcement of existing tax laws. The best analogy is that if you buy and sell shares with a view to making money on them, you will have to pay income tax. It is exactly the same for this. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000359\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022859e13f9-33bb-41bb-b2f0-d848eaf25407\u0022\u003EThere are a number of exemptions to this legislation. As I said, it is focused on residential property. The exemptions are if it relates to your main house\u2014and I am going to come back to the definition around \u201Cconnection\u201D in a minute; if it is inherited property; or if it is subject to a matrimonial dispute. You will note that we have excluded farmland and we have also excluded land a business occupies that may also have a residential component to it. That property would be excluded unless the residential component occupied more than 50 percent of it. A previous speaker just read out a definition of \u201Cconnection\u201D that she had picked up from Ernst and Young. Unfortunately, she should have picked up the preamble to the bill. I just want to reinforce what this definition of \u201Cgreatest connection\u201D means, in relation to the main house. Of course this becomes pertinent only if someone has more than two houses\u2014it becomes pertinent only if someone has more than two houses. [Interruption]\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000360\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022893adc11-ce4e-419c-a079-08f04b3d75f5\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022c2352185de644c41be678852e95bc1aa\u0022\u003EThe ASSISTANT SPEAKER (Lindsay Tisch)\u003C/span\u003E: I am sorry to interrupt, but could the member move to another microphone. There is some static. [Interruption] Please continue, but I say to those who are controlling the sound that there is some static coming through.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000361\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022859e13f9-33bb-41bb-b2f0-d848eaf25407\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u00220ae5bc7f5b6740fb9d6096002edd61ec\u0022\u003EANDREW BAYLY\u003C/span\u003E: In relation to greatest connection, that is where their personal property was kept, relates to the time they occupied each dwelling, where their immediate family lived, where their social ties were the strongest, where their business interests were located, and there are a number of these other issues. So it is quite a clear test. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000362\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022859e13f9-33bb-41bb-b2f0-d848eaf25407\u0022\u003EAs I said before, and I do not want to speak for too long, the provision around this legislation should also be seen in light of the Taxation (Bright-line Test for Residential Land) Bill, which is also going to come into play on 1 October, around the brightline test. There is a third bill that is going to come through to the House that is also about how we ensure that people overseas pay withholding tax, so we can also apply some control around it and, if they do need to pay tax, we have suitable money set aside to be able to meet those legitimate claims that they should be paying for. I think this is great legislation. It has been pragmatic in the way it has been implemented and applied. Also, as a final point, it meets our anti - money-laundering obligations as a country. I commend the legislation to the House. Thank you.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u0022cbc37df2-57ae-4536-94ed-a2e39eecd585\u0022 data-id=\u0022ee4201bc09d2498d96f0c244995b367b\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000363\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022cbc37df2-57ae-4536-94ed-a2e39eecd585\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u0022ee4201bc09d2498d96f0c244995b367b\u0022\u003EPHIL TWYFORD (Labour\u2014Te Atat\u016B):\u003C/span\u003E This legislation, as David Seymour explained most candidly to the House just a little while ago, is the National Government\u2019s political response to the overwhelming public concern about the effect of offshore money pumping up the Auckland housing market. I thought it was the first useful contribution that I had heard from the National Party\u2019s auxiliary Epsom brand for some time in this House. I want to say thank you to David Seymour for that very candid explanation\u2014something that we have not heard from his National Government colleagues throughout this entire debate.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000364\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022cbc37df2-57ae-4536-94ed-a2e39eecd585\u0022\u003EThis legislation is a classic of its kind\u2014a classic of its kind. It is what the National Government does constantly. For the past 3 years National Government Ministers Bill English, Nick Smith, and the Prime Minister himself have denied that speculators are a problem in the Auckland housing market, in spite of the Reserve Bank Governor and deputy governor repeatedly raising the problem of speculators pumping up Auckland house prices. The National Government has denied, denied, and denied that foreign money is a problem, and its members have repeatedly accused anyone in this House, including myself, of being racist and xenophobic because we have raised the problem of non-resident foreign buyers bidding up the price of houses and outbidding Kiwi first-home buyers. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000365\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022cbc37df2-57ae-4536-94ed-a2e39eecd585\u0022\u003EBut finally, finally, in the lead-up to the Budget, they cracked\u2014they cracked. And why? Because their polls were telling them that 82 percent\u201482 percent\u2014of New Zealanders want to see a full, proper, comprehensive register of foreign property buyers; 82 percent. And 72 percent of New Zealanders support a ban on foreign buyers buying existing houses in New Zealand. That is the Labour Party policy. It is the policy of the Australian Federal Government, and 77 percent of New Zealanders support it. In fact, 54 percent of National Party voters want to see a ban on foreign buyers buying existing houses. It is the policy of the Australian Government. It is also the policy of the UK Prime Minister, David Cameron. David Cameron wants to see a register of foreign property ownership in the UK. He does not want to see corrupt foreign money pumping up the price of houses in the UK.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000366\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022cbc37df2-57ae-4536-94ed-a2e39eecd585\u0022\u003EThis legislation finally takes a little baby step in the direction of collecting a little bit of data. But it is not a register, it is not comprehensive, and it is not going to create a searchable database of foreign property owners. The public listening at home to the objections and interjections from the National Government members will know very well by now that the National Government wants to make this an issue of race. The National Government members want to make it an issue of race, and one speaker after another in this debate has got up and mischaracterised the policies of the Labour Party, of New Zealand First, and of the Green Party, because all of the major Opposition parties in this Parliament want to see a full, comprehensive, and publicly searchable register of foreign property buyers. All of the Opposition parties in this House want to see a ban on foreign property ownership of existing houses. That is our policy.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000367\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022cbc37df2-57ae-4536-94ed-a2e39eecd585\u0022\u003ERepeatedly, the Government has tried to say that Labour is opposed to new migrants buying houses. Well, that is not our policy\u2014that is not our policy. It never has been and it never will be. In this debate, the National Government members have tried to say that this is an issue of race and that we do not want to see people of a particular race buying houses in New Zealand. Well, that is not our policy. It never has been and it never will be. Our policy is to look after the interests of New Zealanders, not the interests of foreign property speculators. We are the party that stands beside young Kiwi first-home buyers; that is the party that stands behind foreign property speculators. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000368\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022cbc37df2-57ae-4536-94ed-a2e39eecd585\u0022\u003EThe reason why the National Government does not want to see effective legislation and does not want to see a register of foreign property buyers is that it does not want the flow of foreign money into its party coffers to dry up. That is why it will not touch this issue except with this pathetic, superficial charade of a bill that pretends to do something for political reasons, as David Seymour confessed to this House. But it will not do anything substantial to tackle the problem.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000369\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002257e41e9d-285b-4fb3-847d-a63820ae7137\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u002277c385da945d42f6a1411e738142cd80\u0022\u003EChris Bishop\u003C/span\u003E: I raise a point of order, Mr Assistant Speaker. Mr Twyford just made an unparliamentary remark about the motives of the Government in passing this piece of legislation. There are various Speakers\u2019 rulings\u2014\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000370\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022893adc11-ce4e-419c-a079-08f04b3d75f5\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u00225b00887f08c445949093941909eb1dc8\u0022\u003EThe ASSISTANT SPEAKER (Lindsay Tisch)\u003C/span\u003E: I have the Speakers\u2019 rulings open in front of me, and I am noting very carefully what is being said.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000371\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022cbc37df2-57ae-4536-94ed-a2e39eecd585\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022ab2eee569e5640ec8ed1c55e4464f64b\u0022\u003EPHIL TWYFORD\u003C/span\u003E: Thank you, Mr Assistant Speaker\u2014\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000372\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00227e22bb95-9afb-449c-bcd2-de9fd4f2277c\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022f8abf4fd966c4ab39da701e9558c3865\u0022\u003EDavid Seymour\u003C/span\u003E: I raise a point of order, Mr Assistant Speaker. If I could assist, I am fairly certain it is Standing Order 120 that says it is wrong to impute a motive on to a member\u2014\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000373\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022893adc11-ce4e-419c-a079-08f04b3d75f5\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022204d122bb88444aab77d615a54b78fe4\u0022\u003EThe ASSISTANT SPEAKER (Lindsay Tisch)\u003C/span\u003E: Order! The member will sit. This is a robust debate and these are debating points. I am listening very carefully to the content. I have the Speakers\u2019 rulings open, and I know the page and I know the line number.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000374\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022cbc37df2-57ae-4536-94ed-a2e39eecd585\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u00223d26fcfb8b834f44a4919eea4d02e056\u0022\u003EPHIL TWYFORD\u003C/span\u003E: Protecting affordable homeownership is a proper and legitimate goal for the New Zealand Government, but not according to the members on the National Government benches. The movement of hot money across national borders is a problem that Governments all across the world are grappling with. It is about the instability of markets, and it is about protecting important social and economic goals like access to affordable homeownership. But that does not mean anything to the National Government.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000375\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022cbc37df2-57ae-4536-94ed-a2e39eecd585\u0022\u003EPutting New Zealand\u2019s tiny real estate market into a global market place is a fool\u2019s errand. It is a recipe for what is already happening under the policies of this National Government\u2014that is, New Zealanders are standing by and watching housing and land being sold out from under their feet. That is why Malaysia, Singapore, Hong Kong, and Australia have all enacted policies in the past few years to limit the effects of foreign property speculation in their real estate markets. That is why Beijing and Shanghai do not allow non-residents to buy houses in those cities. Is that racist? Is it racist when Beijing and Shanghai prohibit non-residents from buying houses in their cities? Of course it is not racist. That is their Government looking after their local citizens by protecting affordable homeownership. That is what it is about.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000376\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022cbc37df2-57ae-4536-94ed-a2e39eecd585\u0022\u003EThere is a particular issue with foreign direct investment from the People\u2019s Republic of China, and we need to be able to discuss it without the pathetic and juvenile trivialisation of this issue by MPs like David Seymour and Jami-Lee Ross. Juwai.com, the preeminent Chinese website that markets international real estate to Chinese citizens in China, has estimated that $15 billion of private investment from the People\u2019s Republic of China is heading towards the New Zealand real estate market in the next 5 years\u2014$15 billion from China, which it predicts will be invested in the New Zealand real estate market. We need to be able to talk about this. This is about managing the stability of our markets in the face of huge volumes of international investment that will serve only to pump up the price of real estate and deny young Kiwi families their dream of affordable homeownership.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000377\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022cbc37df2-57ae-4536-94ed-a2e39eecd585\u0022\u003EThe National Government is in denial. It does not want to know that\u2014it does not want to know it. It is not only because that party benefits politically from the donations of property\u2014\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000378\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022893adc11-ce4e-419c-a079-08f04b3d75f5\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022981c4c6328f74457802557d2e7bed93c\u0022\u003EThe ASSISTANT SPEAKER (Lindsay Tisch)\u003C/span\u003E: Order! Now you have crossed the line, and you will withdraw those comments. You cannot say that someone has benefited, and I will refer the member to Speaker\u2019s ruling 56/4. I ask the member to withdraw that comment and to move back now, in the last few minutes, to the content of the bill and not something that may be hypothetical.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000379\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022cbc37df2-57ae-4536-94ed-a2e39eecd585\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022149509e4b49f4c0abea633e537e6d8ec\u0022\u003EPHIL TWYFORD\u003C/span\u003E: It is not the only\u2014\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000380\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022893adc11-ce4e-419c-a079-08f04b3d75f5\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022ff01ed51dbf1424883ad1ffc0103f104\u0022\u003EThe ASSISTANT SPEAKER (Lindsay Tisch)\u003C/span\u003E: I asked you to withdraw the comment.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000381\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022cbc37df2-57ae-4536-94ed-a2e39eecd585\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u00228f0bdbb6fecb4091a1f05b38ab613fd8\u0022\u003EPHIL TWYFORD\u003C/span\u003E: Oh, sorry. I withdraw that comment.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000382\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00227e22bb95-9afb-449c-bcd2-de9fd4f2277c\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u00229a01ea14f66648589597fea48ffde069\u0022\u003EDavid Seymour\u003C/span\u003E: I raise a point of order, Mr Assistant Speaker. Immediately after you resumed your seat Ruth Dyson repeated exactly the same allegation, and by the same standard, I think she too should withdraw and apologise.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000383\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022893adc11-ce4e-419c-a079-08f04b3d75f5\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u002204f5405ccb7f488eb81e62aaf3d13c2c\u0022\u003EThe ASSISTANT SPEAKER (Lindsay Tisch)\u003C/span\u003E: Well, I did not hear that, but did the member make an unparliamentary comment?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000384\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002275a05f96-2474-4c90-a6ea-cf7b5798e03e\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022d53f0726a48649c39164d5ca486f48c2\u0022\u003EHon Ruth Dyson\u003C/span\u003E: I\u2019m happy to tell you what I said.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000385\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022893adc11-ce4e-419c-a079-08f04b3d75f5\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u002220d1f84560164d3292a7c53e57995218\u0022\u003EThe ASSISTANT SPEAKER (Lindsay Tisch)\u003C/span\u003E: No. [Interruption] Order! The point has been made that while I was adjudicating on this, there was an interjection. The question is: was there an unparliamentary interjection? The answer is either yes or no, so that is what I am asking.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000386\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002275a05f96-2474-4c90-a6ea-cf7b5798e03e\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u002287da654fe9c14783a256065ab458740d\u0022\u003EHon Ruth Dyson\u003C/span\u003E: I certainly did interject, and I do not believe that it was outside of the Standing Orders. That is my view.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000387\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022893adc11-ce4e-419c-a079-08f04b3d75f5\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022bba1d52edf31494fa144bc735c540780\u0022\u003EThe ASSISTANT SPEAKER (Lindsay Tisch)\u003C/span\u003E: I will take your word for it.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000388\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022cbc37df2-57ae-4536-94ed-a2e39eecd585\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u00220b209bf5f5b942039b1f7e52842adbf7\u0022\u003EPHIL TWYFORD\u003C/span\u003E: The point has been well made in this debate by members on this side of the Chamber that this bill is inadequate. It will not capture the information that is needed. It has a giant loophole at its heart\u2014that is the main home exemption\u2014and the very definition of \u201Cmain home\u201D contains another loophole that will make this bill worse than useless.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000389\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022cbc37df2-57ae-4536-94ed-a2e39eecd585\u0022\u003EThe point I made earlier that so upset members on the other side of the House is not the only reason why the National Government does not want to tackle seriously the effects of foreign money in the Auckland housing market. Those members do not want to touch the effect of foreign money in the Auckland housing market also because they like it that foreign money is pumping up house prices, because there is nothing else going on in the economy. After the Christchurch rebuild has come off its peak and after the dairy slump, National\u2019s housing bubble in Auckland is the only thing that is left going on in the economy. The last thing that the National Government wants to do is turn off the tap of foreign money, which is driving up Auckland house prices and denying an entire generation of young Kiwi families the chance to own a home of their own.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000390\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022cbc37df2-57ae-4536-94ed-a2e39eecd585\u0022\u003EThe Prime Minister was incredibly candid the other day on Newstalk ZB when he said that he thinks there are some Aucklanders who are very happy with rising house prices. He made it very clear that that is National\u2019s political strategy. It wants to harvest the votes of homeowners who think they are getting rich. They do not give a damn about the half of Aucklanders who rent or the whole generation of young people who will never ever own a home of their own in Auckland under this Government\u2019s policies.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u0022893adc11-ce4e-419c-a079-08f04b3d75f5\u0022 data-id=\u0022bc97867e24b24556aef2b34c7e83d233\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000391\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022893adc11-ce4e-419c-a079-08f04b3d75f5\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u0022bc97867e24b24556aef2b34c7e83d233\u0022\u003EThe ASSISTANT SPEAKER (Lindsay Tisch)\u003C/span\u003E: Members, just before we continue, we are operating on an emergency sound system. I understand that the sound quality is not good outside the House, so just be mindful of that. I do apologise to the House, and I apologise to any member and to those who may be listening and watching the telecast on TV. I apologise for that.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u0022c0f78f60-c2fd-46f4-8138-72f39692fc20\u0022 data-id=\u00227753c108bb0f4b78b4cf535e8f7cca7b\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000392\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022c0f78f60-c2fd-46f4-8138-72f39692fc20\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u00227753c108bb0f4b78b4cf535e8f7cca7b\u0022\u003EHon TODD McCLAY (Minister of Revenue):\u003C/span\u003E That bit of information that you gave us then, Mr Assistant Speaker, that people outside of the House cannot hear this information as well as they need to, will actually help the Labour Party, because that last speech from Mr Twyford was atrocious. He spent his whole time saying that Labour members are not interested in race\u2014that was the first 5 minutes of his speech. The other 5 minutes of his speech was purely about Chinese people. Mr Twyford cannot on the one hand say that Labour members are not interested in race-based policies when it comes to this issue, when he is the man who released a list of names that are just Chinese-sounding. In the other half of his speech he talked about Chinese people and Chinese investors. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000393\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022c0f78f60-c2fd-46f4-8138-72f39692fc20\u0022\u003EI would say that this is a very important piece of legislation, and it is good legislation. It is well-thought-out legislation. Before it was brought to the House it went through full public consultation. But, more important, when it comes to tax policy in this country we have a very long process and precedent in place where we engage with the tax advisory community before we bring legislation forward, so that we can seek their views. They give us input, and they do so freely and willingly. These are tax experts in New Zealand who come from all parts of the world. We are interested in good tax policy and we are interested in the assistance they give us. We are not interested in where they have come from, unlike Mr Twyford in everything he says when it comes to housing in Auckland and New Zealand. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000394\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022c0f78f60-c2fd-46f4-8138-72f39692fc20\u0022\u003ESo this legislation was brought to the House well-thought-out. It does a number of things. We have an expectation on this side of the House that where tax is owed, people should pay it. But we also want to make sure that it is easy to pay tax and that the Inland Revenue Department can use the resources, the scarce resources, we give it on behalf of the taxpayer to target those who choose not to pay tax. We do not want to burden everyday New Zealanders who meet their obligations. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000395\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022c0f78f60-c2fd-46f4-8138-72f39692fc20\u0022\u003EThis legislation is one of three measures announced around the time of the Budget by our Prime Minister. The first is the collection of IRD numbers when a property transaction takes place. I will come to that in a moment. The second is the brightline test, which has gone through the House this week, that will clarify a tax obligation. These two pieces of legislation go hand in hand. If you take only one of them, you are seeing only half of the picture. It is very important to look at the two together. The third is a withholding regime upon overseas people when they sell a property and they have made a gain\u2014and more legislation will come to the House; we are consulting on that at the moment\u2014whereby some of that gain will be withheld in lieu of their tax obligation. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000396\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022c0f78f60-c2fd-46f4-8138-72f39692fc20\u0022\u003ESo in this piece of legislation everybody but those who have a principal residence in New Zealand must provide their IRD number when they purchase a property. That is the first thing. The second thing is that if they are an overseas person, they must get an IRD number before a transaction can go through. As of 1 October of this year they must have a New Zealand bank account before they can get that IRD number, and for that New Zealand bank account to be given to them they have to go through the suite of anti - money-laundering legislation that is in place in New Zealand and that the banks have an obligation to enforce. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000397\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022c0f78f60-c2fd-46f4-8138-72f39692fc20\u0022\u003EThat overseas person must also give the equivalent of their tax number from the tax jurisdiction they are based in. So if they are in Australia, or London, or Fiji, or, for the purposes of Mr Twyford, if they are in Beijing in China, they must provide us with that information. The reason for that is that\u2014actually, as with anybody who has a tax obligation in New Zealand\u2014we expect them to pay their fair share of tax. We also have arrangements in place with a number of countries in the world where they should be paying tax. This information that we collect will be able to be shared with that overseas tax jurisdiction to make sure they are paying their fair share of tax. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000398\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022c0f78f60-c2fd-46f4-8138-72f39692fc20\u0022\u003EThe one exception to that\u2014and I know that earlier in the debate, in other stages, this was an issue of some contention, at least for the Opposition\u2014is that there is a group of New Zealanders who will not have to provide their IRD number. They are the people who are buying a principal residence\u2014their own home, their own residence where they themselves live, or, in many cases, live with their family. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000399\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022c0f78f60-c2fd-46f4-8138-72f39692fc20\u0022\u003EThe brightline test imposes no tax obligation upon those New Zealanders. So I would challenge members of the Opposition and say that actually we would be burdening them, for no reason, with providing an IRD number when there is no tax obligation as a consequence of the purchase and sale of that property. Under the brightline test if you purchase a principal residence and you sell it within 2 years, irrespective of a gain, there is no tax consequence. So why is the Opposition saying we should collect information from these New Zealanders when they will not face a tax obligation? Should we collect information on them upon taxi rides even though they do not pay any tax personally? Why would we do that? It does not make sense.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000400\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022c0f78f60-c2fd-46f4-8138-72f39692fc20\u0022\u003EBut what we have done for that very small group of people who may look to avoid their tax obligation is given tens of millions of dollars to the Inland Revenue Department to enforce compliance around property tax. They will be very good at that. In fact, as we go back, the last Government, towards the end of the Labour Government, started this by giving the department some money. Back then they must have had some concerns, not about Mr Twyford\u2019s concerns\u2014Chinese people buying and selling property in New Zealand\u2014but about people meeting a tax obligation they have. They started it back then. We are continuing with this so that the Inland Revenue Department can focus on those who are not meeting their obligation. Target them, and leave alone all the other law-abiding citizens of New Zealand who have no tax obligation when they purchase a principal residence\u2014leave them alone. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000401\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022c0f78f60-c2fd-46f4-8138-72f39692fc20\u0022\u003ETo other members of the House who say that we should actually just collect that information, well, some would argue that, but I do not, because I actually trust New Zealanders to meet their obligation to the tax department. But where they do not, we are giving the Inland Revenue Department resources to focus on that. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000402\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022c0f78f60-c2fd-46f4-8138-72f39692fc20\u0022\u003EThe final thing I would say to you, Mr Assistant Speaker, is that I agree with Mr Twyford, at least to the degree that I could sense he might have been genuine. This is not about race. It is not actually about where people come from. This is good tax policy. It is about people paying the tax that is due in New Zealand, under the tax laws that are set in New Zealand. We do that so that the Government can afford to provide the many services New Zealanders demand and deserve. I would say to Mr Twyford that it is not good enough just to say that it is not about race and then only talk about one race all of the time. Others outside of here\u2014if the sound has come back on\u2014will judge him for that. This is good tax policy, and I am proud to recommend it to the House.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca id=\u0022a424e374927f44b39271c70c75864be0\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 Land Transfer Amendment Bill and the Tax Administration Amendment Bill be now read a third time.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp class=\u0022HpsDivision\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsItem\u0022\u003EAyes 108\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp class=\u0022HpsDivision\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsItem\u0022\u003ENew Zealand National 59; New Zealand Labour 31; Green Party 14; 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 12\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp class=\u0022HpsDivision\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsItem\u0022\u003ENew Zealand First 12.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp class=\u0022HpsDivision\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsItem\u0022\u003EBills read a third time.\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=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000403\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsSubjectHeading\u0022 id=\u002238f3aba25d9d4ec28806d7f9f662c8d8\u0022\u003EPassports Amendment Bill (No 2)\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000404\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsSubproceedingHeading\u0022 id=\u00227916ae2478e64a48a7fa605816fce88d\u0022\u003ESecond Reading\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000405\u0022\u003EDebate resumed from 8 September.\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u0022893adc11-ce4e-419c-a079-08f04b3d75f5\u0022 data-id=\u002227a6d7ba24b44557a24131a0f057012d\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000406\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022893adc11-ce4e-419c-a079-08f04b3d75f5\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u002227a6d7ba24b44557a24131a0f057012d\u0022\u003EThe ASSISTANT SPEAKER (Lindsay Tisch)\u003C/span\u003E: When we were last on the Passports Amendment Bill (No 2) the next split call went to the Labour Party. Does it wish to take the 5-minute call?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u0022c0e0c86e-e14d-4daa-9bc8-1b5a3d7defeb\u0022 data-id=\u00225ed1e4a629314c4b818dc76465960d59\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000407\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022c0e0c86e-e14d-4daa-9bc8-1b5a3d7defeb\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u00225ed1e4a629314c4b818dc76465960d59\u0022\u003EPOTO WILLIAMS (Labour\u2014Christchurch East):\u003C/span\u003E Thank you, Mr Assistant Speaker, for the opportunity to take a call on the Passports Amendment Bill (No 2). When we were last in the House debating this bill, I recall my colleague Adrian Rurawhe referring to New Zealand passports as taonga, and I recall commenting on that at the time. New Zealand passports are taonga. The value of a New Zealand passport on the international stage cannot be diminished. We have a reputation in this country for being good global citizens and having a sense of responsibility to our fellow global citizens. Our passports are valued in that regard. Our New Zealand passports actually permit us to travel with relative ease around the globe, given that they are held in such high regard. New Zealand is considered a safe and secure country, so it is right and proper that we acknowledge the significance that we hold as New Zealanders carrying New Zealand passports. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000408\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022c0e0c86e-e14d-4daa-9bc8-1b5a3d7defeb\u0022\u003EWhen we were previously talking about this the member for Invercargill did make a comment about the huge inconvenience in having to renew your passport every 5 years. I think, as I recall it, the statement was something like\u2014and I am paraphrasing\u2014it being the \u201Cworst thing ever\u201D to have to renew your passport every 5 years. I think that if you put that alongside\u2014\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000409\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002275a05f96-2474-4c90-a6ea-cf7b5798e03e\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u00222f2bba7549c545ab9d989113c20267bc\u0022\u003EHon Ruth Dyson\u003C/span\u003E: First World problems.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000410\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022c0e0c86e-e14d-4daa-9bc8-1b5a3d7defeb\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u00222eea590d6e224e498b224adc82fb09f2\u0022\u003EPOTO WILLIAMS\u003C/span\u003E: \u2014house price inflation in Auckland, the number of children living in poverty, and the fact that our health and safety laws in this country mean that you cannot be guaranteed to go to work and come home safe, I think, yes, having a 5-year passport and the inconvenience of having to renew it every 5 years is right up there with that! As my colleague says, that is a First World problem. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000411\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022c0e0c86e-e14d-4daa-9bc8-1b5a3d7defeb\u0022\u003EI do want to commend my colleagues the Hon Phil Goff and the Hon Trevor Mallard for their campaign to increase the expiry time of a passport to 10 years, so thank you very much for bringing that to the House\u2019s attention. Thank you to the Government for actually taking on what is a very good idea, and my acknowledgments to the Government Administration Committee for the hard work that it has been doing on this piece of legislation. There has been a bit of public pressure to ensure that we can now have 10-year passports instead of 5-year passports. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000412\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022c0e0c86e-e14d-4daa-9bc8-1b5a3d7defeb\u0022\u003EI know that it is inconvenient, especially to certain people in Invercargill, to renew their passports every 5 years. The reason we actually had 5-year passports in the first place was in some part a result of what happened on 9/11, but technology, and the ability to track individuals, has advanced since those times. We now have amazing technology with our passports, which means that we no longer have the requirement to renew them so frequently. But that increase in technology also creates an issue, which I think was acknowledged and discussed in the select committee, in that technology does move on, and having a 10-year passport may mean that we are no longer using the latest technology to protect the holders of those passports.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000413\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022c0e0c86e-e14d-4daa-9bc8-1b5a3d7defeb\u0022\u003EI do want to make a comment on the bill not requiring the physical copy of your passport to be handed in, in order to have it cancelled. That could potentially pose some problems. If we cancel passports electronically but do not have the physical document, there may be an opportunity to use that document in a fraudulent way. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000414\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022c0e0c86e-e14d-4daa-9bc8-1b5a3d7defeb\u0022\u003EI do not think there is much more to say on this bill. We do support it and I commend it to the House. Thank you.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u00225634618f-04f4-4f2c-a4bb-6ec0edeb2bf5\u0022 data-id=\u00224688cd91115e4dafb2913587ae3544d3\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000415\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00225634618f-04f4-4f2c-a4bb-6ec0edeb2bf5\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u00224688cd91115e4dafb2913587ae3544d3\u0022\u003EJONO NAYLOR (National):\u003C/span\u003E It is a pleasure to rise and take a short call on the Passports Amendment Bill (No 2). This is good sensible policy that is responding to an ever-changing world. As we have just heard from the previous speaker, Poto Williams, there were very good reasons to reduce the validity of passports from 10 to 5 years, but now that we are able to extend it back out to 10 years again, that makes a lot of sense. I think that for a significant number of New Zealanders this will be very much welcome news. Although some people may get to use their passport every year for a holiday, I know that for many New Zealanders, an overseas trip is something that perhaps might happen only every 5 or 6 or 7 years. For those people to perhaps have to go to the expense of getting a passport only to find it has expired the very next time they want to go overseas certainly would add a fair amount of cost to them for an overseas trip that is not going to occur very often. Technology has moved forward as, again, other speakers have referred to\u2014we have got the SmartGate ability with our new passports, and that kind of thing. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000416\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00225634618f-04f4-4f2c-a4bb-6ec0edeb2bf5\u0022\u003EFor anyone who was considering perhaps extending the length of passports for people under the age of 16, there are clearly really good reasons why we would not do that. I experienced that a little bit myself earlier in the year when we went to go through the SmartGate with my two boys, and neither of them were actually able to go through the SmartGate because their faces had changed through their teenage years to such a significant level that, actually, the face recognition software did not recognise them. So, given how quickly young people can change, it is obviously a clear reason. Interestingly enough, though, it still accepted me, even though I had considerably less hair than the last time my passport photo had been taken. So it is obviously able to accommodate some things like that, but just not some of the changes that young people will have as they go through those early phases of life. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000417\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00225634618f-04f4-4f2c-a4bb-6ec0edeb2bf5\u0022\u003ESo I am absolutely pleased to be able to see, as I said, good sensible policy coming through, good practical responses, and an ability to provide good services for New Zealanders with regard to their passports. I commend this bill to the House.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u002275a05f96-2474-4c90-a6ea-cf7b5798e03e\u0022 data-id=\u0022b11c0df519c04bf2a3a59586f6340a3d\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000418\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002275a05f96-2474-4c90-a6ea-cf7b5798e03e\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u0022b11c0df519c04bf2a3a59586f6340a3d\u0022\u003EHon RUTH DYSON (Labour\u2014Port Hills):\u003C/span\u003E It has increasingly become an habit in this Parliament to conclude on a Thursday afternoon with bills that we all agree on. I think it is a nice way for us to leave Parliament, but I look forward even more to next Tuesday afternoon when we will be debating perhaps more contentious subjects. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000419\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002275a05f96-2474-4c90-a6ea-cf7b5798e03e\u0022\u003EI am really pleased to be supporting this bill. It has been a long time in coming, but I am very pleased that the select committee that dealt with it, the Government Administration Committee, which is the committee I have the privilege of chairing, was able to do so in a pretty efficient manner. Not only are we reporting it back in good time but we are also recommending that the implementation date be moved forward by a month. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000420\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002275a05f96-2474-4c90-a6ea-cf7b5798e03e\u0022\u003EBefore I get on to the specifics of the bill, I would like to just refer to why we changed the provisions in the passport legislation originally so that we would move from 10-year passports to 5-year passports. I guess it is particularly appropriate given that it is 14 years ago this week that New Zealand watched in horror as the planes crashed horrifically into the World Trade Center, the Pentagon, and other places. Tomorrow, or the next day, is the 14-year anniversary of those events. The world was pretty shaken up by those events. I remember people walking around this building, just unable to believe that what we were seeing on television was actually happening in a part of the world that many of us had visited\u2014I had been in the World Trade Center on a number of occasions. I think the whole world was shocked by those events, with the exception of a very small number of people who, through their own fanatical beliefs, supported the sort of action that killed so many innocent people. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000421\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002275a05f96-2474-4c90-a6ea-cf7b5798e03e\u0022\u003ESo as a result of those attacks and, I guess, increased awareness of terrorist threats, New Zealand, like many other countries, decided to increase its security profile, and, as a result of that, we moved from 10-year provisions in our passports to 5 years so that they would expire in half the time that they had previously. When this bill came to the committee\u2014in fact, I will go back a further step. When a petition was presented to our select committee calling for this measure to be taken, one of the first questions our committee asked our advisers was \u201CWe moved to 5-year passports because of the increased security risk. Would we be diminishing the security of New Zealanders\u201D\u2014the people coming into New Zealand or leaving on New Zealand passports\u2014\u201Cand increasing the threat if we changed to a 10-year passport?\u201D. Of course, because that was the primary driver for changing it from 10 years to 5 years, we wanted to make sure that we were not recommending something that would increase our security risk. As the select committee, we were given very confident assurances that that was no longer the case and that changes in technology, changes in the exchange of information, etc., now mean that we could confidently move from 5 years back to 10 years on the understanding that we were not increasing the security risk. Of course, that was one of the major things that we wanted to tick off. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000422\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002275a05f96-2474-4c90-a6ea-cf7b5798e03e\u0022\u003ECan I acknowledge Kyle Lockwood, of flag fame, who actually was the person who instigated the petition to the committee in the first place. He came along to the committee and made a robust presentation. Our committee recommended that the Government considered this favourably. The Minister responsible, the Hon Peter Dunne, took that recommendation and translated it into the legislation that we now see coming back from the select committee with, again, I think, all parties in this Parliament supporting it, which is a very good thing. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000423\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002275a05f96-2474-4c90-a6ea-cf7b5798e03e\u0022\u003EThe select committee made just one change, as I alluded to in my opening comments, and that was to recommend that instead of starting it in, I think, December or January\u2014I cannot remember the original date, but we are recommending that this come into force in November. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000424\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002275a05f96-2474-4c90-a6ea-cf7b5798e03e\u0022\u003ETragically, it was not in time for the member for Invercargill, Sarah Dowie, to have her passport renewed for 10 years! I just want to extend my sympathy and support to the member, who in the House during an earlier part of the debate said that one of the worst things that could happen to a person was to have to renew a passport after 5 years rather than after 10 years. She has had a pretty good life is all I can say if that is the worst thing that could happen to her. So we were not in time. The member had to renew her passport and, unfortunately, in 5 years\u2019 time she is going to have to go through that trauma yet again because her passport will expire. But I hope that if she is in the House for the next 5 years, she will be exposed to a little more robustness and may understand that that is not the worst thing that can happen in her life. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000425\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002275a05f96-2474-4c90-a6ea-cf7b5798e03e\u0022\u003EThe reason that we wanted to bring this forward as early as possible was so that more New Zealanders could have the convenience of renewing their passports prior to the summer travel, when a lot of people move out of New Zealand over the summer holidays. They would be able to renew their passports for a 10-year period. So I hope that our committee has made life a little more convenient for people, but I still do not share the member for Invercargill\u2019s view that it is the worst thing that you can have happen. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000426\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002275a05f96-2474-4c90-a6ea-cf7b5798e03e\u0022\u003EThe other point that we considered a lot as a select committee\u2014and I just want to alert members of the House to this consideration, because I am sure a lot of them have heard this concern as well\u2014is that there was some early speculation, when we were debating this at the select committee, that the fees for the passport would double. So if we went from 5 years to 10 years, the fees would, you know, match the increase in size. The Minister made a very prompt response that he would not be looking at that very favourably, and the officials gave the members of the select committee very confident assurances that passport issuing would be on a cost recovery basis\u2014full stop. There would not be an opportunity for additional revenue gathering as we move from 5 to 10 years; they will just be doing simple cost recovery. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000427\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002275a05f96-2474-4c90-a6ea-cf7b5798e03e\u0022\u003EThe select committee have included that in its report to the House and we will be keeping an eye on that, because we do not want people to have to pay a huge amount more. There will be a little additional cost because some of the infrastructure costs remain the same, and, obviously, if people renew their passports only after 10 years rather than 5 years, there will be fewer renewals and therefore a lower level of income. But it is not significant. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000428\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002275a05f96-2474-4c90-a6ea-cf7b5798e03e\u0022\u003ECan I just refer in passing to the Hon Peter Dunne\u2019s Supplementary Order Paper 115. He has tabled it, everyone has seen it, and I know we should not be referring to the detail of it until the Committee stage, but I just want to say that I am really sorry that we missed putting \u201C2\u201D after the word \u201CSchedule\u201D in the bill as reported back. We will be supporting that typo correction when it comes to the Committee stage. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000429\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002275a05f96-2474-4c90-a6ea-cf7b5798e03e\u0022\u003EAs my colleague Poto Williams did earlier, I want to acknowledge the hard work that both the Hon Phil Goff and the Hon Trevor Mallard have done in ensuring that this matter was raised at an appropriate time. When we knew that the security risk that had driven the change from 10 years to 5 years had now been eliminated by other factors, the Hon Phil Goff and the Hon Trevor Mallard both took this up within Labour and then more publicly, and they actually drove the petition that Kyle Lockwood brought to our select committee. So I want to acknowledge both of them. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000430\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002275a05f96-2474-4c90-a6ea-cf7b5798e03e\u0022\u003EI also want to acknowledge what was a very conscientious presentation from the officials to the select committee. These officials were probably the same group of people or were in the same part of the Department of Internal Affairs that gave the original advice to Ministers to move from 10 years to 5 years. So I said to them \u201CRight, what\u2019s changed, other than the view of the Minister?\u201D, and they were very competent in\u2014not justifying; I do not mean that in a derogatory way\u2014explaining very well all the factors that could lead us to confidently proceed with this legislation. It is something that we took seriously, because no committee would want to recommend to the House that any New Zealander holding a passport and travelling around the world was at an increased risk as a result of legislation we passed, or that our country was exposed to an increased risk as a result of this change. I also want to say that the Clerk\u2019s Office and the members of the committee have all worked really diligently on this bill. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000431\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002275a05f96-2474-4c90-a6ea-cf7b5798e03e\u0022\u003EI think it is a good bill. As I said right at the beginning, it is nice to finish on a Thursday with a bill that we all agree on. I look forward to it being passed and implemented in time for New Zealanders who need to renew their passports to be able to do so for a longer period of time. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u002258eae615-ef83-4df5-bace-6749bdd312a8\u0022 data-id=\u0022c7972ddbdacb4b7795f4aafb76f51e8f\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000432\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002258eae615-ef83-4df5-bace-6749bdd312a8\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u0022c7972ddbdacb4b7795f4aafb76f51e8f\u0022\u003EDr PARMJEET PARMAR (National):\u003C/span\u003E Thank you, Mr Assistant Speaker, for the opportunity to speak on the second reading of the Passports Amendment Bill (No 2). Since the validity period of passports for adults was reduced, people have been very keen for it to be changed back, so this bill is in response to that need. This bill is going to extend the validity period of passports from 5 years to 10 years for citizens aged 16 and over. We know that the reason for reducing the validity period of passports was security, and it was not just us; other countries also took such measures, but since then some countries have gone back and increased the validity period of their passports. It is the right thing to do to increase the validity period of our passports from 5 years to 10 years. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000433\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002258eae615-ef83-4df5-bace-6749bdd312a8\u0022\u003EA passport is a travel document, and people travel for various reasons. Those who travel for business reasons travel quite often, and it adds extra work, inconvenience, and expense to renew a passport every 5 years. Given that we are a very multicultural country\u2014one in four people in Auckland is born overseas\u2014people have extended families overseas and they visit them quite often. Sometimes there can be an emergency in the extended family requiring travel. The 5-year period is seen to be too short. I say this taking into consideration that, with technology, we can renew passports online\u2014filling in forms, etc., can be done online\u2014but still this 5-year period for passports is seen to be too short. So I support extending the validity period of passports from 5 to 10 years, and I commend this bill to the House. Thank you.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000434\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002258eae615-ef83-4df5-bace-6749bdd312a8\u0022\u003EBill read a second time.\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=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000435\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsSubjectHeading\u0022 id=\u00220887557eba0440caaea22e726d5f41ec\u0022\u003ETariff (Free Trade Agreement between New Zealand and the Republic of Korea) Amendment Bill\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000436\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsSubproceedingHeading\u0022 id=\u0022754690901c4449658722a986c82686e9\u0022\u003ESecond Reading\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u0022c0f78f60-c2fd-46f4-8138-72f39692fc20\u0022 data-id=\u00221a607b15fa2c486085ef6949dc8f2dbb\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000437\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022c0f78f60-c2fd-46f4-8138-72f39692fc20\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u00221a607b15fa2c486085ef6949dc8f2dbb\u0022\u003EHon TODD McCLAY (Acting Minister of Trade)\u003C/span\u003E: I move, That the Tariff (Free Trade Agreement between New Zealand and the Republic of Korea) Amendment Bill be now read a second time. I would like to thank the Foreign Affairs, Defence and Trade Committee for its consideration of this bill and the good work that it did not only in consulting with the public on the earlier draft of the national impact assessment but also in the detail of this legislation. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000438\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022c0f78f60-c2fd-46f4-8138-72f39692fc20\u0022\u003EThis is an extremely important piece of legislation for the House and for the country because it amends New Zealand law to implement our obligations under this free-trade agreement. It is a free-trade agreement that will help to level the playing field for so many New Zealand producers and exporters to Korea, who work very hard to send goods there and are at a disadvantage because of tariff barriers that are in place when their goods arrive at the border in Korea. But more than that, they are at a disadvantage compared with some of the countries that we compete with for production of these goods that also export to Korea. That is why successive Governments\u2014and I hope the bipartisan approach of good trade policy to help New Zealand business and industry is still shared by parties across the House\u2014have worked so hard in this area: to level the playing field for hard-working, diligent New Zealand companies and, of course, the people who work for them. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000439\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022c0f78f60-c2fd-46f4-8138-72f39692fc20\u0022\u003ESo the bill will particularly amend the Tariff Act 1988 and will add the Republic of Korea to the list of preferential countries that we trade with in note 3 of the Tariff. It also provides transitional safeguard mechanisms contained within the trade remedies chapter of the free-trade agreement, so that they are applied appropriately under the circumstances. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000440\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022c0f78f60-c2fd-46f4-8138-72f39692fc20\u0022\u003EI want to touch on just a few of the issues I think are important in this bill, at least in the agreement, and what the bill will implement. The first is this: why is Korea important for us? Well, it is our sixth-largest export destination for goods and services and our eighth-largest import source of goods and services. Two-way trade between New Zealand and Korea in 2014 stood at $4.5 billion. That is significant for New Zealand and New Zealand businesses. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000441\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022c0f78f60-c2fd-46f4-8138-72f39692fc20\u0022\u003EThe free-trade agreement is a significant development in our bilateral relationship with Korea, and what this does is it means that New Zealand companies are able to sell more produce to Korea and more goods and more services to Korea. They become more productive. These barriers that some around the world have, when we look at the restriction of trade when it comes to tariffs, we would say restrict trade. Traditionally when we look at the evolution of trade around the world that is what they were there for. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000442\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022c0f78f60-c2fd-46f4-8138-72f39692fc20\u0022\u003EMany years ago the significant barriers that were in place with the European Union were to protect local industry, which we know can stifle innovation, and to restrict access for goods from others who produce well, as New Zealand does. Well, this levels that playing field as far as our relationship with Korea goes. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000443\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022c0f78f60-c2fd-46f4-8138-72f39692fc20\u0022\u003ENew Zealand exports currently are constrained by these tariff barriers. Without the agreement, in the Korean market our exporters currently pay approximately $229 million of duties every year\u2014$229 million of duties on our goods that go into Korea. None of that is returned to the New Zealand economy or these New Zealand businesses. So on entry into force of this agreement, duty-free access will be bound in and tariffs eliminated on approximately 48.3 percent of exports. That is a saving of $65 million in duty in the first 12 months alone. In the first 12 months of the entry into force of this agreement, negotiated by Minister Groser with Korea, $65 million of duty will be reduced. That makes our producers more competitive; that makes them more productive; that returns more to them to invest in their businesses and to invest in their workforce. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000444\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022c0f78f60-c2fd-46f4-8138-72f39692fc20\u0022\u003EUnder the agreement, approximately 98 percent of tariffs on New Zealand\u2019s current exports to Korea will be progressively eliminated. That means 98 percent of what we currently export to Korea will go in without a tariff upon it\u2014without any barrier around cost when it arrives there. Extremely important\u2014but that is only what we export at the moment. As you will see with other free-trade agreements, particularly the China agreement\u2014under that agreement our trade with China has grown significantly. Under the economic agreement that has been put in place with Taiwan, we have seen our trade grow significantly\u2014and $4.5 billion of trade with Korea is already significant. I expect with this free-trade agreement entering into force we will see trade from New Zealand to Korea also grow significantly. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000445\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022c0f78f60-c2fd-46f4-8138-72f39692fc20\u0022\u003EThere is one aspect of trade agreements that is not often spoken of, and that is what happens when you do not have one. Let us take the situation with Korea, where others have entered into an agreement with Korea before we have. What this means is we still have the same access and the same relationship, but some of these goods that we compete against actually get in there at a preferential rate compared with New Zealand. What that means is we end up competing on a platform that is less than fair. It means our access is eroded because of the preference of others. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000446\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022c0f78f60-c2fd-46f4-8138-72f39692fc20\u0022\u003EIt is as simple as this: let us take the kiwifruit industry and their trade with Korea. Korea is a very important market for New Zealand kiwifruit. The kiwifruit industry has faced tariffs of about 48 percent, from memory, into that market. Other countries of the world\u2014Chile, for example, from memory, also produces kiwifruit\u2014export there at a much lower rate. From memory, it is around about 10 percent. So those countries have our producers in New Zealand at a disadvantage straight away. The cost of our kiwifruit when they get to the border is competitive, but when the tariff rate is applied that competitiveness is no longer as obvious. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000447\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022c0f78f60-c2fd-46f4-8138-72f39692fc20\u0022\u003EUnder this agreement we will see a significant reduction, over a short period of time, of the tariff rate against New Zealand kiwifruit to zero\u2014right down to zero. At the same time, for countries we compete with that also trade with Korea that will not be the case. So our producers now have an advantage over some of those others, and that is a very good thing. That will be worth, on average, from memory, $12,500 per kiwifruit grower in New Zealand\u2014cash in hand in respect of the erosion or the taking away of this tariff. So that is really important. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000448\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022c0f78f60-c2fd-46f4-8138-72f39692fc20\u0022\u003EBut the main point I am making here is that, actually, without these free-trade agreements, without us entering into them, without us moving forward with them, without us making sure that we remain competitive of two others, when our competitors who are trading into markets that are important to us get a preference that we do not\u2014for instance, if there is an agreement that we do not sign but they do\u2014then over time, and it does not have to be a very long period of time, our companies in New Zealand, our producers, are hampered. They are held back. Their trade is eroded, based upon price. Well, the good news here is that this agreement with Korea does not do that. In fact, it goes in the other direction. It gives us some advantage. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000449\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022c0f78f60-c2fd-46f4-8138-72f39692fc20\u0022\u003EFinally I will speak on some of the substance of the agreement that this bill enacts through changes to legislation\u2014a number of wide-ranging measures to help us to facilitate trade, both in goods and services, and to also assist with investment flows and to encourage cooperation in areas that we must work in together. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000450\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022c0f78f60-c2fd-46f4-8138-72f39692fc20\u0022\u003EInvestment flows in both directions. So the first around this is that there are improved rules of origin\u2014sanitary and phytosanitary rules are very important for agricultural production in New Zealand\u2014our recognition of standards, technical regulations, and customs procedures. Procedures\u2014these are not tariffs but these are all barriers that can have the same effect as a tariff. If it makes access more difficult, it puts cost upon New Zealand businesses. So us moving forward with this is a good thing for New Zealand. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000451\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022c0f78f60-c2fd-46f4-8138-72f39692fc20\u0022\u003EThe agreement includes a modern, high-quality services framework and commitments that will mean greater service opportunities in both countries. I think there are a number of very good New Zealand businesses that can take advantage of that. A most favoured nations provision means that should Korea give better treatment to other similar nations, it must also extend that to us, so that is, in as far as negotiations that others will have in the future, a very large degree of futureproofing. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000452\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022c0f78f60-c2fd-46f4-8138-72f39692fc20\u0022\u003EThe agreement also includes commitments to facilitate the movement of business people between New Zealand and Korea. I think that is another important aspect. It is often overlooked in new, modern, responsive free-trade agreements and their negotiation. It is actually not just about tariff line any longer; it is about facilitating business and giving New Zealanders better treatment when they go into other countries. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000453\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022c0f78f60-c2fd-46f4-8138-72f39692fc20\u0022\u003EI will finish by saying that we are a very fair nation. We do not have that many tariffs in place for goods that come into New Zealand. But we are a country of very able producers. We are a country of traders. As a Government, and with other members of this House, we need to make sure that we look at the very best way to ensure these great producers and traders in New Zealand have at least the best chance at a level playing field in other parts of the world. There are still far too many countries that have significant barriers in place that we view as unreasonable and unfair. That is the reason I commend this bill to the House and this free-trade agreement, which is good for New Zealand. Thank you.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u0022f5d71749-ae91-4af7-b2bd-77260398912a\u0022 data-id=\u0022de9166833abb4b129c479277da683aeb\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000454\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022f5d71749-ae91-4af7-b2bd-77260398912a\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u0022de9166833abb4b129c479277da683aeb\u0022\u003EHon DAVID PARKER (Labour):\u003C/span\u003E This is the only piece of legislation that comes before the House in respect of the New Zealand - Korea free-trade agreement. It is the only opportunity that we as politicians have to talk about the pluses and the minuses in the agreement, and I propose to do so. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000455\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022f5d71749-ae91-4af7-b2bd-77260398912a\u0022\u003ELabour shares the ambition of National to grow our trade, and we think that reducing tariff barriers to the entry of our exports into other countries is an important part of the Government\u2019s agenda to improve trade. Sadly, the need for these tariff reductions and the need for better export performances are laid bare by the current statistics for the New Zealand economy, where exports as a percentage of the economy have dropped from 30 percent of GDP when the Government took over, to 28 percent now, and they are projected to drop further still. That should be contrasted with the Government\u2019s ambition to lift exports. Its target was to lift exports from 30 percent to 40 percent of GDP, which it is plainly failing on because its economic settings are wrong. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000456\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022f5d71749-ae91-4af7-b2bd-77260398912a\u0022\u003EThis legislation is supported by Labour because, for once, National has it just about right\u2014it is not perfect but it has got it just about right\u2014so we can support this piece of legislation. Indeed, as the Acting Minister of Trade correctly records, tariffs that are currently paid by New Zealand exporters that are going to be reduced in the first year alone amount to about $65 million, which will mean that the net proceeds of sale that are received by New Zealand exporters selling into Korea will be higher, because they do not face those tariff bills and, therefore, more of the sale price will end up in their pocket. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000457\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022f5d71749-ae91-4af7-b2bd-77260398912a\u0022\u003EThat is good for the New Zealand economy because it means that more money will come into the New Zealand economy, we will be able to afford to buy more things from overseas as a consequence of the things that we export, and those businesses will be more competitive and will be able to expand and afford higher levels of cost, including, over time, higher salaries and wages. That is how an economy like New Zealand\u2019s grows in value and prospers. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000458\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022f5d71749-ae91-4af7-b2bd-77260398912a\u0022\u003EThat is the reason why the Labour Party is clearly pro-trade, as evidenced by the most important trade agreement that we currently have, which is the New Zealand - China free-trade agreement, which was negotiated by the Hon Phil Goff, who will take a call in this debate. That agreement shows how important trade agreements can be to growing trade. I do not agree with some of the other parties in this House that say that free-trade agreements are irrelevant to our trading prospects. They most certainly are relevant. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000459\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022f5d71749-ae91-4af7-b2bd-77260398912a\u0022\u003EOne of the reasons why we find it easy to agree to this agreement is that, other than this amendment to the Tariff Act, there is no change required to New Zealand\u2019s legislation. There is no change required to our tax legislation, to our environmental legislation, or to our labour laws. All of them remain as they are and can be properly changed in the future. We had good advice from officials in the earlier part of this process that confirmed that we could, for example, properly regulate for public health and safety, for environmental laws, for labour laws, or for tax laws. All of those things are unaffected by this free-trade agreement. So the sovereignty of the New Zealand Parliament to govern in the interests of New Zealanders is not undermined in those ways.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000460\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022f5d71749-ae91-4af7-b2bd-77260398912a\u0022\u003EThere is a problem with this agreement that we have highlighted already\u2014and I was surprised that the Minister did not address it in his second reading speech, just as he did not address it in his first reading speech\u2014which is the mistake that the Government has made in respect of what can be controlled in terms of South Korean investment into New Zealand. At the moment the New Zealand Government is able to change what it screens for. It can say, for example, that it wants to ban the sale of New Zealand\u2019s houses to overseas buyers. This agreement constrains that ability, and Labour says that that is wrong. Labour also points out that this is poor negotiating by the National-led Government, because the Australians were able to protect that same right. Australia does control who can buy its existing houses. It does so including in respect of South Korea and is able to do so under its free-trade agreement that was negotiated in recent years with South Korea\u2014between South Korea and Australia. So I have got no doubt in my mind that if the Government had wanted to retain the right to control who buys New Zealand houses in its agreement with South Korea, it could have done so. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000461\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022f5d71749-ae91-4af7-b2bd-77260398912a\u0022\u003EWhy did the Government not do it? It did not do it because it does not care about that. It does not think that a future Government should be able to ban the sale of New Zealand houses to overseas buyers. That was made clear by both Minister Groser and the Prime Minister, John Key, respectively about a month ago speaking on The Nation and Q\u002BA. They both said: \u201CWell, we don\u2019t want to ban the sale of New Zealand homes to overseas buyers, notwithstanding the fact that other countries like Australia do.\u201D \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000462\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022f5d71749-ae91-4af7-b2bd-77260398912a\u0022\u003EWe in the Labour Party think that we should be able to. It is proper for National members to disagree with our position. It is not proper that they curb the sovereignty of a future Government\u2019s ability to do so, and that is our complaint with this. Our request that we made at the time of the Foreign Affairs, Defence and Trade Committee report was that the Government clarify this by way of a side letter or renegotiation of this aspect of the agreement, and it has, to all appearances, not done anything. It has not responded to the select committee. It has certainly given no signal that it is trying to do that. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000463\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022f5d71749-ae91-4af7-b2bd-77260398912a\u0022\u003EWhat are the consequences of this? The Minister made reference to the most favoured nation clause in this agreement, meaning that if South Korea does something more favourable to another country, New Zealand gets the benefit of it. What he did not say was that most favoured nation agreements do not actually apply to goods, so they could have different tariff rates and that would not flow through, but they do apply to investment protocols. I find that somewhat inconsistent but that is as it is in a number of other agreements. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000464\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022f5d71749-ae91-4af7-b2bd-77260398912a\u0022\u003EWhat is the effect of that? Well, the effect of that is the same as it is under prior agreements. The most favoured nation agreement under the Chinese free-trade agreement applies to things that are given away by the National Government in the South Korean free-trade agreement. So by the action of National not retaining the right to screen for new categories of investment, i.e., to ban the sale of New Zealand homes to South Koreans, the most favoured nation provision in the Chinese free-trade agreement means that that flows through to the Chinese free-trade agreement. The effect of this is that New Zealand could not have a future ban on land sales that exempted South Korea but applied to China, because that would put us in breach of the Chinese free-trade agreement. So the effects of this flow through to other trade agreements. The current Government is putting future Governments in the position that if they wanted to ban the sale of land to foreigners\u2014we have the position that if you have got the right to live here you have got the right to buy here\u2014we would have to renegotiate the South Korean free-trade agreement in order to avoid breaching the Chinese free-trade agreement. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000465\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022f5d71749-ae91-4af7-b2bd-77260398912a\u0022\u003EWe have five bottom lines for free-trade agreements. This is true in respect of the proposed Trans-Pacific Partnership agreement and it is true in respect of this agreement. Those conditions are that Pharmac has got to be protected, and corporations cannot be able to successfully sue Governments for regulating in the public interest\u2014I have talked about that. We would actually prefer in agreements with First World countries not to have investor-State dispute resolution clauses. The officials told us this time that they could not have had an agreement with South Korea because that was a bottom line with the South Koreans; they needed investor-State dispute resolution clauses from their perspective. We think that New Zealand has to have the ability to control who buys our farmland and our houses, the Treaty of Waitangi must be upheld, and we have got to have meaningful gains in tariff reductions for our exporters. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000466\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022f5d71749-ae91-4af7-b2bd-77260398912a\u0022\u003EAll of those conditions were met in the Chinese free-trade agreement. All but one, the land one that I talked about, are met in respect of the South Korean one. We do not yet know what is happening in respect of the Trans-Pacific Partnership agreement, but we know that at the start of the process Minister Groser, Prime Minister Key, and Bill English all said that they were going to be huge reductions in tariffs such as those that have been achieved in the Chinese free-trade agreement and, to a similar extent, in the South Korean free-trade agreement, but we do not yet know. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000467\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022f5d71749-ae91-4af7-b2bd-77260398912a\u0022\u003EWith those comments I reiterate that the Labour Party recognises that we are a trading nation. We have got a proud record in favour of free and fair trade, and for those reasons we are supporting this bill.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u0022861a1798-a396-4a6c-b9e2-7d2f15d4a001\u0022 data-id=\u00229113efc4f02c406b87d178ab69cb8e96\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000468\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022861a1798-a396-4a6c-b9e2-7d2f15d4a001\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u00229113efc4f02c406b87d178ab69cb8e96\u0022\u003EDr SHANE RETI (National\u2014Whangarei):\u003C/span\u003E It is a pleasure to stand and talk to the Tariff (Free Trade Agreement between New Zealand and the Republic of Korea) Amendment Bill. I would like to start by acknowledging the Foreign Affairs, Defence and Trade Committee, and the chairmanship of Mark Mitchell, and other colleagues. I would also especially like to commend Labour members for their support of this bill. I think this bill is better with the additions and the support that has come from, clearly, very strong trade people: the member David Shearer, the member Phil Goff, and we had the observer, the member David Parker as well. I would like to commend them and thank them for their contributions to this. Indeed, there was a sort of bipartisan murmur of \u201Cthe sooner we do this, the sooner our exporters will benefit\u201D. I think that was a rule of thumb that was well applied. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000469\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022861a1798-a396-4a6c-b9e2-7d2f15d4a001\u0022\u003EI will crystallise some of the key points of this bill. New Zealand receives import tariff revenue of around $4.2 million, and that is from Korea from where we import refined oil, cars, electronic equipment, and machinery. Officials tell us that lower import costs on these factors of production will actually lower many New Zealand firms\u2019 costs and improve their international competitiveness. Consumers may also benefit directly from cheaper products. On the other side of the equation we actually pay export tariffs of $229 million to Korea. We export industrial goods, forestry products, dairy, beef, lamb, kiwifruit, and squash. On entry into force we get immediate benefit. On entry into force nearly 50 percent of New Zealand export tariffs will be eliminated immediately. Those are export tariffs on $793.7 million, which will become duty-free. If we look at 5-yearly increments\u2014this roughly changes every 5 years\u2014immediately there is a 50 percent reduction in export tariffs. By year 5 that reduction is approximately two-thirds, by year 10 it moves to three-quarters, and by year 15 there is nearly a 100 percent reduction in export tariffs, which become duty-free.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000470\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022861a1798-a396-4a6c-b9e2-7d2f15d4a001\u0022\u003EThe obvious immediate benefactors from this agreement includes the kiwifruit industry. We had Zespri people present to us, and they told us that they have $1.4 billion of sales worldwide and that they are projecting to double the volume, particularly of gold kiwifruit, in the next few years. The South Korean market is well-suited to New Zealand gold kiwifruit because they appreciate quality and they are actually prepared to pay for quality. As has been mentioned, we have an incumbent competitor in Chile kiwifruit. They actually have a tariff of close to zero percent and we are paying close to 45 percent. So here is our immediate benefit to the kiwifruit industry. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000471\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022861a1798-a396-4a6c-b9e2-7d2f15d4a001\u0022\u003EI think we are paying a lot of attention, as we must, to the fiscal and economic benefits of the free-trade agreement, but I would like to focus on some of the indirect benefits that come to us as well. These are the strategic benefits of having good relationships with a significant regional country, which will also carry through to all our international dealings with South Korea. If we have a look at some of those indirect benefits, a large part of them are relationship benefits. Let me talk about some of them. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000472\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022861a1798-a396-4a6c-b9e2-7d2f15d4a001\u0022\u003EThe indirect benefits from enhanced trade with Korea\u2014as well as offering direct economic benefits the free-trade agreement advances a number of New Zealand\u2019s broader strategic interests. New Zealand and Korea are both members of the World Trade Organization. Trade reform and liberalisation through negotiations at the World Trade Organization remains New Zealand\u2019s primary trade policy objective. Entering into a comprehensive free-trade agreement with Korea, which has relatively high tariff barriers, particularly in agriculture, contributes towards New Zealand\u2019s wider goal of multilateral trade liberalisation. New Zealand and Korea also work together on trade and economic issues\u2014\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000473\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002279db8b64-1f9b-4416-9b81-a12963db9cbf\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u00221baab615ab744177a0919b27bb62daeb\u0022\u003EThe ASSISTANT SPEAKER (Hon Trevor Mallard)\u003C/span\u003E: Order! [Interruption] Order! When I stand up, the member sits down. Thank you. The member is now reading something very directly. Is he quoting to the House? I did not hear at the beginning whether he gave the source of the quote. I think if he is going to read out a report like that, he had better give the source of the quote. Otherwise it will look like it is just part of his speech and then he would be reading it.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000474\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022861a1798-a396-4a6c-b9e2-7d2f15d4a001\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022ce8e7e7ea56f450b8eb925a2450f3332\u0022\u003EDr SHANE RETI\u003C/span\u003E: I would like to quote from the national interest analysis that was presented\u2014\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000475\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002279db8b64-1f9b-4416-9b81-a12963db9cbf\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u002236fe259dd72546b797a10027d44163a1\u0022\u003EThe ASSISTANT SPEAKER (Hon Trevor Mallard)\u003C/span\u003E: Well, can I say that reading out the national interest analysis, which is available to all members of the House, I think does not actually\u2014having an odd quote from it would be all right, but reading out paragraphs of it is not an appropriate use of a member\u2019s time. Otherwise members could just totally waste the time of the House and read the whole thing out and pretend it was their own words.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000476\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022861a1798-a396-4a6c-b9e2-7d2f15d4a001\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u00228428bc0bf8394317acaefb232f7db1df\u0022\u003EDr SHANE RETI\u003C/span\u003E: Thank you. I was anticipating three sentences and I am coming to the last line, if I may. The last sentence here is: \u201CA government-to-government agreement of this nature has further value beyond the rights and obligations negotiated under the FTA.\u201D This is the point I was making\u2014that there is a strategic benefit here that is hard to give tangible dollar value to on top of all the economic benefits that we are talking about. So I just wanted to comment on those indirect benefits. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000477\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022861a1798-a396-4a6c-b9e2-7d2f15d4a001\u0022\u003EWe received a few submissions on the amendment bill, having previously received 3,582 submissions on the free-trade agreement itself. Most of the submissions on this amendment were positive and supportive. One made the case that it was not a good bill because it would lower New Zealand\u2019s standard of living to that of Korea\u2019s. We challenged that quite vigorously, and department officials reported back to us saying that that was not correct\u2014that, roughly, we have the same standard of living as South Korea\u2014so we could put that to rest. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000478\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022861a1798-a396-4a6c-b9e2-7d2f15d4a001\u0022\u003EI think there are many protections in this free-trade agreement\u2014protections around sovereign authorities\u2014so I take some issue with what the member Mr Parker is saying. There is a disputes resolution to tribunals of three people\u2014one whom we select, one whom the others select, and one whom we agree on. There would seem to be some intrinsic fairness in that. Let us remember that we also, through an agreement like this, get reciprocal protection for our investors in South Korea. So against this background is New Zealand\u2019s strong history of fairness and success in any World Trade Organization disputes process that we have been involved with. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000479\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022861a1798-a396-4a6c-b9e2-7d2f15d4a001\u0022\u003EI would like to congratulate our negotiators on this body of work and I would like to commend this bill to the House.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u0022c699e7c6-53b9-470c-a14a-378cb6fc8a04\u0022 data-id=\u002291e23d50cde04432987294939096083b\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000480\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022c699e7c6-53b9-470c-a14a-378cb6fc8a04\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u002291e23d50cde04432987294939096083b\u0022\u003EHon PHIL GOFF (Labour\u2014Mt Roskill):\u003C/span\u003E I would like to support the Tariff (Free Trade Agreement between New Zealand and the Republic of Korea) Amendment Bill. The bill is necessary in order to bring into effect the free-trade agreement negotiated between New Zealand and Korea. I want to set out the reasons why I think it is important. It is not a perfect free-trade agreement by any extent. There are some major omissions in this free-trade agreement, but the conclusion that I come to is that New Zealand is better off for having it than not having it\u2014and by a significant margin.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000481\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022c699e7c6-53b9-470c-a14a-378cb6fc8a04\u0022\u003EWe did not spend a lot of time in the Foreign Affairs, Defence and Trade Committee looking at this particular bill because we had previously examined the national interest analysis on the free-trade agreement when we reported to the House on the free-trade agreement. What interested me was that every party represented in the select committee agreed that, on balance, we need to have this free-trade agreement, which is why I do not understand why two parties in the House are going to oppose it. I hope that when New Zealand First and the Greens get to their feet they will explain why they would vote against this agreement when there are clear and worthwhile benefits for New Zealand in supporting it, which they acknowledged, I think quite fairly, because they were conscientious in the work that they did looking at the national interest analysis. I think that when it comes to trade, we try to make sure that we do what is right for the country first and foremost. Over a long period of time there has been an endeavour to have a bipartisan policy in this House on trade agreements.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000482\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022c699e7c6-53b9-470c-a14a-378cb6fc8a04\u0022\u003EWhy does Labour support this agreement? Well, first of all, we have a long track record of being a free-trade party. I remember that under my predecessor Jim Sutton, we negotiated the P5 agreement, which is a high-quality and comprehensive agreement. I was the Minister responsible for the New Zealand - China Free Trade Agreement and the ASEAN free-trade agreement. Both of those agreements met the highest standards in terms of eliminating tariff barriers on all of our major products and of being comprehensive. I am proud of both of them. I am particularly proud of the China free-trade agreement, which helped alleviate what would have been a much more severe recession for New Zealand if we had not had that free entry into China and if we had not had the track record that we had in building up that relationship.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000483\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022c699e7c6-53b9-470c-a14a-378cb6fc8a04\u0022\u003EI also take some responsibility for the initiation of the New Zealand - Korea free-trade agreement, and I say that on the basis of a study that we initiated between the New Zealand Institute of International Research and the Korea Institute for International Economic Policy. In 2007 we got a report from that study group, and that report said that New Zealand and Korea had a strong and complementary relationship, that a free-trade agreement was feasible, and that there were mutual benefits for both countries in negotiating a deal. That was in 2007. Well, we are now in 2015. So the negotiation took some time. I am not casting aspersions on the Minister of Trade. I think that Tim Groser did the very best he could. He has worked on it conscientiously, and the agreement that we have got is worthwhile. But it is also fair to say, as Russell McVeagh has said in its analysis of the free-trade agreement, that those expecting similar results to China are going to be disappointed. There were some disappointing results in that analysis.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000484\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022c699e7c6-53b9-470c-a14a-378cb6fc8a04\u0022\u003EFirst, let us talk about why this agreement is important. It is important because we were not first in line. We were first in line with China; we were not first in line with Korea. Korea already had free-trade agreements with the United States, Australia, Canada, China, the European Union, India, ASEAN, Chile, and some others. What that meant for us was that our inability to get the agreement meant that our exporters were disadvantaged. The clearest example of that was with our kiwifruit exporters. We were paying a 45 percent tariff to get into the Korean market, while Chile, our major competitor in this area, had tariff-free entry. Our people were placed in an impossible position. So this free-trade agreement was a catch-up, in many respects. It does not give us advantages over those who have already negotiated free-trade agreements, but it removes the competitive disadvantage that we could not possibly have tolerated our exporters continuing to face. For those who oppose this agreement, explain to the beef industry how it could have competed with the United States when the United States was going in tariff-free, or to the Zespri people who are having to pay the 45 percent tariff.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000485\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022c699e7c6-53b9-470c-a14a-378cb6fc8a04\u0022\u003EObviously, there are some good aspects to this agreement. Wine\u201415 percent tariffs gone overnight. We have kiwifruit, which I have mentioned already. Those tariffs will be phased out over 6 years. We will still have a disadvantage for the next 6 years, but if we get this bill in, we will get the first cut by the end of this year. Butter\u201489 percent tariffs; they will go over 10 years. Cheese\u201436 percent tariffs; they will go over 12 years. Wood\u201410 percent tariffs; they will go over 10 years. And salmon\u201420 percent tariffs; they will go over 4 years. There are some winners. Let us acknowledge the good things in this bill. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000486\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022c699e7c6-53b9-470c-a14a-378cb6fc8a04\u0022\u003EThere are also losers. Milk powder is one of our critical exports. The 176 percent\u2014176 percent\u2014tariff on milk powder remains. We get an expanding tariff-free quota, but we are still faced indefinitely with that huge tariff on milk powder. Seventy-five percent of our deer velvet exports are frozen. They will have an ongoing 15 percent tariff barrier. For p\u0101ua and frozen squid, there is a 22 percent barrier. So we did not get comprehensive tariff reductions, and I am disappointed in that. I know that the Government will be disappointed in that. I still say that what we did get is worth having, and we should not walk away from it.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000487\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022c699e7c6-53b9-470c-a14a-378cb6fc8a04\u0022\u003EWhy is it important to have the deal? Well, Korea is our fifth-biggest export market. Up to the point of the free-trade agreement, it has been growing by about 10 percent a year. The purchasing power of 51 million Koreans has been going up. They are the thirteenth-biggest economy in the world. They are the eighth-largest trading nation in the world. We needed a free-trade agreement with Korea, and, again, I say to my colleagues who share the Opposition benches with us: with such an important trading partner, you cannot walk away from having a free-trade agreement that is so important. The trade agreement eventually eliminates $229 million worth of tariffs. It helps not only in the agricultural areas but also in areas like medical devices, like aviation, like marine, and like precision engineering. There are benefits for us in those areas and in services like education, legal, and professional. My key point is that the benefits outweigh the disappointments in this agreement, and we should do it.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000488\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022c699e7c6-53b9-470c-a14a-378cb6fc8a04\u0022\u003ESo why were people opposed to it? Well, most of the submissions came on the national interest analysis of the free-trade agreement, and they were using Korea as a surrogate for the Trans-Pacific Partnership agreement. In particular, they were opposed to investor-State dispute settlement. Personally, I would not have cared if we had not had the investor-State dispute settlement with Korea. Korea is a country with the rule of law. We did not need an outside disputes procedure if there was a fight over some investment deal. But the fact was, as officials advised us, the Koreans insisted on it. We would not have had the deal, the officials said, without the investor-State dispute settlement, and we were not going to walk away from this deal. The fact is that the wording in the investor-State disputes procedure is pretty much the same as what I put into the China deal, and it protects our sovereign right to legislate for the public good. So I am not blaming the Government for having it there, except for one thing. I will make excuses for the Government for the things that it could not get in to it, but one thing that the Government could have kept out of it was the automatic right for Korean investors to invest in our residential property.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000489\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022c699e7c6-53b9-470c-a14a-378cb6fc8a04\u0022\u003EI want to talk about the dishonesty of the Prime Minister. He said: \u201CWe\u2019ve put this in there, and because Labour has the most favoured nation clause in its free-trade agreement with China, China will get it too.\u201D John Key knew that. He knew it at the start. He knew that the most favoured nation clause goes into every trade agreement, which is why you do not set a precedent, like this Government has set a precedent on the sale of residential property. In Auckland, we know that foreign investment is driving up house prices. We know that it is making it impossible for Kiwi first-home buyers of whatever ethnicity to get their own homes. So my question to the next National speaker is: did you allow that to go through deliberately, instead of carving it out like the Aussies did, or was it incompetence? Those are the only two explanations that you can have. Was it deliberate to allow that in, which would extend to everybody that we have ever had a free-trade agreement with the right to buy residential property, or were you incompetent and just not noticing it when it went through?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000490\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022c699e7c6-53b9-470c-a14a-378cb6fc8a04\u0022\u003EBy and large, this is a good deal. I give credit to the Minister of Trade for working hard on it. It is not perfect, but it is as good as he could have got. But he should have dealt with maintaining our sovereign right to protect residential housing against overseas investors, who are pushing prices up.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u0022eaf79431-1033-44f1-a633-22633da52c0d\u0022 data-id=\u0022153630c7a9fb4fd99db8e15676db472d\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000491\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022eaf79431-1033-44f1-a633-22633da52c0d\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u0022153630c7a9fb4fd99db8e15676db472d\u0022\u003EDAVID BENNETT (National\u2014Hamilton East):\u003C/span\u003E From the first Labour speech there you would think the Labour Party was actually a party in favour of trade. From the second speaker from the Labour Party, Phil Goff, you actually would have thought for the first 8 minutes that he also was in favour of trade. I respect the past history of Mr Goff, but the last 2 minutes of his speech were just rubbish. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000492\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022eaf79431-1033-44f1-a633-22633da52c0d\u0022\u003EMr Goff negotiated the free-trade agreement with China. When that member negotiated the free-trade agreement with China, did he put in a rule saying that Chinese cannot buy property in New Zealand? Did he put that in there? Did he do that? Is there a rule stopping Chinese purchases in New Zealand? Chinese purchasers can purchase in New Zealand, can they not, Mr Goff? A Chinese national can purchase in New Zealand, can they not? That is the truth of the matter. That is allowed under the New Zealand - China free-trade agreement. There is the ability for a Chinese resident to purchase in New Zealand. And yet, when we do a South Korean agreement the Labour Party wants to have a different rule. It wants to make sure\u2014\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000493\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022c699e7c6-53b9-470c-a14a-378cb6fc8a04\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022bfdeb7e965cc46a8a343a046ec5a8bc9\u0022\u003EHon Phil Goff\u003C/span\u003E: No, it\u2019s the same rule.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000494\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022eaf79431-1033-44f1-a633-22633da52c0d\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022ae2a9b2a0519457a99e55b58e15627bf\u0022\u003EDAVID BENNETT\u003C/span\u003E: No, no, no, no, it is not. It is not, actually.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000495\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022c699e7c6-53b9-470c-a14a-378cb6fc8a04\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022f8d8a7b7e622427fa39eaf522ef4da4f\u0022\u003EHon Phil Goff\u003C/span\u003E: It\u2019s your fault.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000496\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022eaf79431-1033-44f1-a633-22633da52c0d\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u00222ca79331f6ce4cfe8148ca6b48729b7e\u0022\u003EDAVID BENNETT\u003C/span\u003E: The reality is\u2014no, no, no, no, Mr Goff. A Chinese resident can purchase in New Zealand, and you are saying that South Korean residents should not be able to purchase in New Zealand. That is what he is saying in this House tonight. That is what Mr Goff is saying here, and it goes back to the Labour Party around free trade. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000497\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022eaf79431-1033-44f1-a633-22633da52c0d\u0022\u003EThe Labour Party does not know where it stands on free trade. Its members are coming into this House and supporting this free-trade agreement, voting for this free-trade agreement, and looking at the Opposition parties that are against it and tearing strips off them. But the reality is, does Labour support the Trans-Pacific Partnership? No, it does not. The Labour Party does not support the Trans-Pacific Partnership\u2014\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000498\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002279db8b64-1f9b-4416-9b81-a12963db9cbf\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022811c96fac8d54fd480b4061de1a247f1\u0022\u003EThe ASSISTANT SPEAKER (Hon Trevor Mallard)\u003C/span\u003E: All right, order! We are now 2 minutes into the member\u2019s speech. I think it is fair to say that he has been attacking members in a way that if they had taken a point of order they would have had some support. The member will, first of all, stop shaking his head like that, and, secondly, he will address the bill.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000499\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022eaf79431-1033-44f1-a633-22633da52c0d\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u00222398608a6a8b47ef8b595225835be5a1\u0022\u003EDAVID BENNETT\u003C/span\u003E: Well, the bill is the trade agreement with Korea, and a big part of that trade agreement is looking at where the political parties stand. Labour members have said that they are voting for this bill. They have mentioned in their speeches the Trans-Pacific Partnership agreement as well, and they are speeches that have come from the Labour Party. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000500\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022eaf79431-1033-44f1-a633-22633da52c0d\u0022\u003EBut the Labour Party will not support free trade in general. It will not support it. That is the problem in the Labour Party at the moment. On one side of the Labour Party we have people like Mr Goff and Mr Parker, who came here and spoke about free trade. They said that it was a good thing. But then you have got Mr Little, who is there only because of the unions. He was not voted in by his members\u2014\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000501\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002279db8b64-1f9b-4416-9b81-a12963db9cbf\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022c224429ec88440f49c4e164a5eed4461\u0022\u003EThe ASSISTANT SPEAKER (Hon Trevor Mallard)\u003C/span\u003E: Order! The member will resume his seat. The member will now address the bill. There is nothing in this bill on the area that he is currently speaking on. If I have to interrupt him again, his speech will be terminated.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000502\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022eaf79431-1033-44f1-a633-22633da52c0d\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022db5d7223821142048f4926bd61dcc1d7\u0022\u003EDAVID BENNETT\u003C/span\u003E: The members over there want to know what the bill is about. Well, it is about free trade. Look at New Zealand First and the Green Party. They are against this bill. The most bigoted party in this House is against this bill because it does not believe that New Zealanders should have free-trade agreements. The New Zealand First Party does not believe in free trade\u2014\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000503\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00221dbd2811-8e58-4ffb-848d-31c0eaa9690a\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u002270d9e657af1941c69f366b083aa6d315\u0022\u003EChris Hipkins\u003C/span\u003E: I raise a point of order, Mr Speaker. I appreciate the comments were not directed at this particular party, but I am pretty sure it is unparliamentary to refer to a member or parties or a collective group of members as bigoted.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000504\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00229dc203b3-21b0-4d4a-a530-746504e05f20\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022b815ff4bca514528ae2dd2022cc054b7\u0022\u003ERichard Prosser\u003C/span\u003E: I raise a point of order, Mr Speaker. I appreciate the comments from the Labour senior whip. I did hear the term, and if it is necessary to note an offence on behalf of the House we will do that, but, in actual fact, my colleague and I did not regard the member\u2019s opinion as being worthy of taking offence to.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000505\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002279db8b64-1f9b-4416-9b81-a12963db9cbf\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u002277c5a922f11b4cee8a779102636fe13c\u0022\u003EThe ASSISTANT SPEAKER (Hon Trevor Mallard)\u003C/span\u003E: Well, I think the first thing we will have is that Mr Prosser will withdraw his last comment.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000506\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00229dc203b3-21b0-4d4a-a530-746504e05f20\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022364ac7e269bb4f13a013ad505858a571\u0022\u003ERichard Prosser\u003C/span\u003E: I withdraw.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000507\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002279db8b64-1f9b-4416-9b81-a12963db9cbf\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u00220e26f5b39ac24f8688b492afa86e13c4\u0022\u003EThe ASSISTANT SPEAKER (Hon Trevor Mallard)\u003C/span\u003E: Mr Bennett will withdraw and apologise.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000508\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022eaf79431-1033-44f1-a633-22633da52c0d\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u00221fcf91537324491e8b5b7c087841b441\u0022\u003EDAVID BENNETT\u003C/span\u003E: I also withdraw and apologise, but the New Zealand First Party goes\u2014\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000509\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002279db8b64-1f9b-4416-9b81-a12963db9cbf\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u00221e83cb59a1d945069a3b1c094c0b61ae\u0022\u003EThe ASSISTANT SPEAKER (Hon Trevor Mallard)\u003C/span\u003E: Right, order! The member will now resume his seat. The member\u2019s speech is terminated. The member knows that he does not say \u201Cbut\u201D after withdrawing and apologising. Dr Russel Norman.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000510\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022eaf79431-1033-44f1-a633-22633da52c0d\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u002274719b26dc0c41b88f01193607285ed2\u0022\u003EDavid Bennett\u003C/span\u003E: I raise a point of order, Mr Speaker. I never used the words \u201Cbut after\u201D. I started with the next part of my speech, so I request the Assistant Speaker\u2014\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000511\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002279db8b64-1f9b-4416-9b81-a12963db9cbf\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u002217935560997a4760a621ba9e7d606139\u0022\u003EThe ASSISTANT SPEAKER (Hon Trevor Mallard)\u003C/span\u003E: The member will now resume his seat. Dr Russel Norman.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000512\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022eaf79431-1033-44f1-a633-22633da52c0d\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022b38d69bc52a64154b48631f299e6b57c\u0022\u003EDavid Bennett\u003C/span\u003E: I raise a point of order, Mr Speaker. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000513\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002279db8b64-1f9b-4416-9b81-a12963db9cbf\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022f3656aa0af2e4976ac70f59ed920b79b\u0022\u003EThe ASSISTANT SPEAKER (Hon Trevor Mallard)\u003C/span\u003E: I am warning the member. If he is going to dispute the ruling that I have made terminating his speech after two warnings and, I think, a deliberate contravention and continuation of something that I had indicated he was to stop\u2014if he does it again then his speech will not only be terminated, but so will his presence.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u0022eb49ee66-7ca7-472d-a4a1-b099fd594dfa\u0022 data-id=\u0022ea748c03aa0f42d8937f7569bae52343\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000514\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022eb49ee66-7ca7-472d-a4a1-b099fd594dfa\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u0022ea748c03aa0f42d8937f7569bae52343\u0022\u003EDr RUSSEL NORMAN (Green):\u003C/span\u003E I rise on behalf of the Green Party to speak to this bill, which implements a very small part of the New Zealand - Korea free-trade agreement. Of course, these free-trade agreements have very large-reaching consequences, but only very small elements of them actually require legislative change. This bill implements those small elements.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000515\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022eb49ee66-7ca7-472d-a4a1-b099fd594dfa\u0022\u003EWhat these trade agreements are really about is what kind of global governance we want to have. The Green Party supports global governance. We want global rules around climate change emissions, for example. We want global rules around protecting people from cluster munitions, for example. The question is, when we implement these kinds of trade agreements\u2014the New Zealand \u2013 Korea free-trade agreement in this case\u2014we are implementing a series of global rules, in this case bilateral, but in some cases multilateral and in some cases plurilateral. These kinds of rules determine the way that the global order is to be rolled out.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000516\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022eb49ee66-7ca7-472d-a4a1-b099fd594dfa\u0022\u003EIn these kinds of agreements, and in this agreement in particular, there are the investor-State dispute settlement elements. It is part of this trade agreement that this bill is implementing a part thereof. These trade agreements and these investor-State dispute settlement clauses, what they do is that they restrict the ability of Governments to regulate, and of parliaments to pass laws. They restrict the scope of action of democratically elected parliaments.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000517\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022eb49ee66-7ca7-472d-a4a1-b099fd594dfa\u0022\u003EIf you were to think \u201CWell, what are the kinds of rules for global governance we\u2019d like to have in place?\u201D\u2014should, for example, Governments be allowed to eliminate nuclear power if they decide it is unsafe? I think that is a legitimate question of global governance. Should Governments and parliaments be allowed to decide that they no longer want to have nuclear power? I think that is a legitimate question, and, in my view, we should have a set of rules of global governance that enables and allows parliaments to decide to eliminate nuclear power. I just think that that is what the global rules should allow.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000518\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022eb49ee66-7ca7-472d-a4a1-b099fd594dfa\u0022\u003EThe problem with investor-State dispute settlement clauses, which are part of the New Zealand - Korea free trade agreement, is that if you try to do that you will be sued literally for billions of dollars. The reason why I can state that so confidently is that right now, at this very moment, the German Government is being sued for billions of euros because it passed a law in its Parliament to phase out nuclear power. It is being sued under exactly these clauses, the investor-State dispute settlement clauses, that are in this trade agreement. The German Government is currently being sued by Vattenfall, which is a nuclear power company, because the German Parliament dared to pass a law to phase out nuclear power.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000519\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022eb49ee66-7ca7-472d-a4a1-b099fd594dfa\u0022\u003ESo the question is this: should the global governance rules that we establish enable democratically elected parliaments to phase out nuclear power? My answer is yes. This bill\u2019s answer is no. And that is what it comes down to. Let us have another question. Should Governments, democratically elected parliaments, be allowed to restrict tobacco advertising by legislating for, for example, the use of plain packaging for tobacco? Should you be allowed to do that? Should the rules of global governance allow parliaments to pass those rules? I say yes; this bill says no.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000520\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022eb49ee66-7ca7-472d-a4a1-b099fd594dfa\u0022\u003EThis bill implements the New Zealand - Korea free trade agreement, which includes investor-State dispute settlement clauses. What those clauses say is that if I remove the right of Philip Morris, a tobacco company, to use its intellectual property, which is its brand, it can sue me under the investor-State dispute settlement clauses. The reason we know this is because Australia is currently being sued by Philip Morris under one of these clauses in a Hong Kong - Australia bilateral investment treaty that has one of these clauses in it. So why would we support clauses that implement global governance rules that restrict our right to protect human health from tobacco companies? Why would we do that? I do not support that.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000521\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022eb49ee66-7ca7-472d-a4a1-b099fd594dfa\u0022\u003ELet us take another example. What about if you wanted to restrict the sale of land to offshore buyers? I would say that a democratically elected parliament should be allowed to pass a law to restrict the sale of land to people from offshore. It is not xenophobic; it is simply saying we want to control the price of land in our country so that the people who live here can afford to buy it. This bill before us right now is part of a trade deal that will prevent this Parliament from passing a law that restricts the sale of land to offshore buyers.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000522\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022eb49ee66-7ca7-472d-a4a1-b099fd594dfa\u0022\u003EThat is what this bill does right now. That is exactly what this bill does, not only in respect of Korea but China as well, because, unfortunately, the previous Labour Government stupidly signed a free-trade agreement that had a most favoured nation clause in it, which meant that any following Government, like the one we have at the moment, that implemented really stupid trade agreements, like this one, would have all of the impact of that pushed backwards on to the New Zealand - China free-trade agreement. And that is, in fact, what this bill does.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000523\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022eb49ee66-7ca7-472d-a4a1-b099fd594dfa\u0022\u003EI am shocked that the Labour Party is voting for this bill. I am shocked that the Labour Party is voting for a bill that it knows will mean that we cannot place restrictions on\u2014\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000524\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022f5d71749-ae91-4af7-b2bd-77260398912a\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u00226fbb866d4bc847b1b98c2eb676a8f3ea\u0022\u003EHon David Parker\u003C/span\u003E: The member should listen to the debate.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000525\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022eb49ee66-7ca7-472d-a4a1-b099fd594dfa\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u00220bf5ef6d40c84770805a51ce28d4d97a\u0022\u003EDr RUSSEL NORMAN\u003C/span\u003E: \u2014the sale of land in New Zealand to offshore buyers. I listened to the debate, Mr Parker, very closely. It was because the Labour Government put a most favoured nation clause in the New Zealand - China free-trade agreement, and then this Government introduced clauses that remove our right to stop offshore buyers of land\u2014right? That right, in this agreement, the one right before us, gets taken back into the New Zealand - China one because the Labour Government put a most favoured nation clause into that agreement.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000526\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022eb49ee66-7ca7-472d-a4a1-b099fd594dfa\u0022\u003ESo anyone who votes for this bill in Labour and National is voting to prevent this Parliament from passing a law that says that New Zealand land has to stay in the ownership of New Zealand residents and citizens. That is what it means. In my opinion, good global governance leaves the space for democratically elected parliaments to say that the land in this country will be sold only to New Zealand residents and New Zealand citizens. I believe that they are good rules. Good global governance rules say that if a parliament wants to do that, it should be allowed to do that. What this treaty does, and what this bill, which implements it, does is it removes that right. I think that is bad global governance. That is why we are not going to be voting for it.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000527\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022eb49ee66-7ca7-472d-a4a1-b099fd594dfa\u0022\u003EI want to address\u2014there are so many elements to this thing. Let me just talk about that particular part of it. There is a lot more to it. But that is all about restricting the ability of Parliament to prevent sales of land to offshore owners. If you wanted to eliminate nuclear power, if we had it, we would be prevented from doing that. If we wanted to restrict tobacco advertising, we would face big problems if we tried to do that\u2014because of this agreement, which those parties, Labour and National, are going to vote for tonight in this bill. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000528\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022eb49ee66-7ca7-472d-a4a1-b099fd594dfa\u0022\u003ELet us talk about the China deal, because that has been brought up as an example of a great success. There is an old saying in statistics, that correlation is not causation. It is true that after the passage of the New Zealand - China free-trade agreement, the sale of dairy milk and logs to China increased very significantly. There is no question about that. The question is: was that caused by the New Zealand - China free-trade agreement? Is there a causal connection, or is it just a correlation?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000529\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022eb49ee66-7ca7-472d-a4a1-b099fd594dfa\u0022\u003EOne way to examine this would be to say: \u201CWell, let\u2019s look at other countries who were also selling products, particularly commodities, into China over that period that did not have free-trade agreements.\u201D What about Australia, Brazil, and South Africa\u2014also big commodity exporters? What happened to the commodity exports from New Zealand, Australia, Brazil, and South Africa after the passage of the New Zealand - China free-trade agreement? None of those other countries had free-trade agreements during that period. If you look at the exports from those other countries, they also dramatically increased after 2007-08. They did not have free-trade agreements. So if the cause of the big increase in New Zealand\u2019s exports to China was the free-trade agreement, why is it that those other commodity exporters also had dramatically larger increases in exports? New Zealand had roughly a $4 billion increase. Australia had a $50 billion increase, in terms of its exports into China. Brazil had a $10 billion increase. South Africa had a $30 billion increase.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000530\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022f5d71749-ae91-4af7-b2bd-77260398912a\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u002283d42a741f94496bbe148343cbc9ff90\u0022\u003EHon David Parker\u003C/span\u003E: A lower percentage, though.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000531\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022eb49ee66-7ca7-472d-a4a1-b099fd594dfa\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u00229eeb9b50e8fb4dfcaa954b13b2cb2156\u0022\u003EDr RUSSEL NORMAN\u003C/span\u003E: However you measure it, as a percentage or just in basic numbers, all of those commodity exporters had a dramatic increase in their exports of simple commodities into China, and it had nothing to do with the free-trade agreement.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000532\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022eb49ee66-7ca7-472d-a4a1-b099fd594dfa\u0022\u003EChina needed commodities because it had a booming economy. It is really simple. That is why our exports of simple commodities into China increased. That is why all countries like us who exported simple commodities to China over that period had a huge growth. All of us had exactly the same experience. So yes, free-trade agreements matter. Do not get me wrong. Tariffs are a problem, right? I agree with that. But we should not have to sign up to removing all of our democratic rights to implement bad global governance in order to reduce tariff barriers. I do not agree with that.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000533\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022eb49ee66-7ca7-472d-a4a1-b099fd594dfa\u0022\u003EI think that that is a real problem because it restricts our democratic rights in the future, and it creates real obstacles at a time when we need to take really coordinated action\u2014to reduce greenhouse emissions, clean up our waterways, a whole bunch of environmental problems that we face, not to mention what is going on with the Auckland house prices\u2014and when we need Parliament and Government to have the tools in order to take that action. This Parliament, if it votes for this, is voting to take away those tools, and that is why the Green Party is not going to support it.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u0022e11a5f05-1940-41b2-8f1e-911dba7a43a5\u0022 data-id=\u00227c0745e70e7e4e82b83b706888d8958f\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000534\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e11a5f05-1940-41b2-8f1e-911dba7a43a5\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u00227c0745e70e7e4e82b83b706888d8958f\u0022\u003EFLETCHER TABUTEAU (NZ First):\u003C/span\u003E I would first like to address a comment from Dr Reti, whom I respect as a fellow member on the Foreign Affairs, Defence and Trade Committee. He talked about this bill as a relationship builder, and it is the first time that that argument has been raised in relation to this bill. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000535\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e11a5f05-1940-41b2-8f1e-911dba7a43a5\u0022\u003EWhat I would like to point out is that Dr Reti and I actually had dinner with the South Korean Government contingent when they came to New Zealand. I told them very openly that New Zealand First could not support the trade deal, and I told them it was because of the investor-State dispute settlement. I said, actually, that it was a bad trade deal and that they had got the better of the bargain. They nodded and they acknowledged, and they agreed\u2014the point I am making is that you can disagree with friends, and you can carry on and build relationships. This opposition does not compromise our relationship with the rest of the world. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000536\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e11a5f05-1940-41b2-8f1e-911dba7a43a5\u0022\u003EBut what I really want to point out to this House, especially after the attack from Mr Bennett and some of the rhetoric from the National Party, is that New Zealand First is a party that in its founding document, in its policies, and in its manifesto\u2014our principles have not changed for 22 years\u2014we absolutely endorse trade. We say that the export of New Zealand products and goods overseas is an absolutely essential necessity to our small regional economy\u2014it is absolutely essential. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000537\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e11a5f05-1940-41b2-8f1e-911dba7a43a5\u0022\u003EBut New Zealand First opposes this trade agreement, and the alteration to the legislation in support of it, for two main reasons. The first one is the investor-State dispute settlement that I have mentioned. The second is that it is actually a bad trade deal. New Zealand First agreed completely with the Minister when he spoke about New Zealanders being fine exporters, and about how important the work of our primary industry is in the main in terms of the growth of this country. What he did not acknowledge, and what he should have acknowledged, is that most of that comes from our regions. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000538\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e11a5f05-1940-41b2-8f1e-911dba7a43a5\u0022\u003ENew Zealand First adamantly debates and contests that this Government has a policy that results in, essentially, absolute apathy with regard to\u2014well, actually, the whole economy, but specifically to our regions. The Northland by-election result and the resulting uproar from other regions around New Zealand saying \u201CYou\u2019re not taking notice, you\u2019re not taking us seriously, and you have no policy.\u201D, created a real uproar, and the Government took notice. As I have said already today, what we are seeing from this Government is a beautifully written song sheet with wonderful lyrics, but its actions belie its true intent, and in this case there is no substance. We are not seeing anything meaningful from this Government. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000539\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e11a5f05-1940-41b2-8f1e-911dba7a43a5\u0022\u003EWe are told by our trade negotiators that the investor-State dispute settlement provision was actually the only part of the Koreans\u2019 counterargument to the trade agreement. We have such an open economy already\u2014we already have pretty much open borders for the rest of the world\u2014so what could the Koreans ask of us? The only thing that they asked of us was for the investor-State dispute settlement tribunal process to be included in this trade agreement, and this is perhaps the main reason that New Zealand First cannot support this legislation. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000540\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e11a5f05-1940-41b2-8f1e-911dba7a43a5\u0022\u003EIt is imperative that I remind the House why. I say to the Government: what price sovereignty? We are told about the tangible benefits of the trade of tangible goods, but I say it again: what price sovereignty? There are no calculations done on that. There are no estimates done on the compromise that we give away\u2014the undermining of this nation\u2019s right to rule our own nation. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000541\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e11a5f05-1940-41b2-8f1e-911dba7a43a5\u0022\u003ENew Zealand First abhors the investor-State dispute settlement provision because it enables an international foreign corporate to sue a Government, not in a court, but in a\u2014deliberately named\u2014tribunal. It is not a court; it is a tribunal. That tribunal is closed, usually, at the request of the international corporate, so we do not know what has gone on in the proceedings. It costs millions of dollars whether we win or lose in those proceedings. It is run by three corporate lawyers\u2014no judge, but three corporate lawyers\u2014and because its results are in secret, we do not know how it came to the decision that it has made. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000542\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e11a5f05-1940-41b2-8f1e-911dba7a43a5\u0022\u003EWhat is really important here for the other side of the House to note is that because it is a tribunal and not a court, there is no right of appeal. If New Zealand were to be sued under the investor-State dispute settlement by a foreign corporate, it could not look at the text of the proceedings and it could not go back and contest it and ask: \u201CBy what right did you make this decision? Under what terms did you consider the actual provisions in our trade agreement?\u201D. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000543\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e11a5f05-1940-41b2-8f1e-911dba7a43a5\u0022\u003EI will point out for the members opposite that there are far too many examples now of trade agreements with investor-State dispute settlement provisions in them where it has been proven that the investor-State dispute settlement tribunal has ignored the very provisions of the trade agreement and has decided in favour of a corporate, despite robust and comprehensive clauses in these agreements.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000544\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e11a5f05-1940-41b2-8f1e-911dba7a43a5\u0022\u003EDebate interrupted.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000545\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e11a5f05-1940-41b2-8f1e-911dba7a43a5\u0022\u003EThe House adjourned at 6 p.m.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id2015091020a4e421a42d46549c19549cc847fd49000546\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e11a5f05-1940-41b2-8f1e-911dba7a43a5\u0022\u003E\u003Cbr\u003E\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n    \u003C/div\u003E\n  \u003C/body\u003E\n\u003C/html\u003E"