"\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=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000001\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsProceedingHeading\u0022 id=\u0022b75fd28b378249ab9767e92873475d67\u0022\u003ETUESDAY, 19 JUNE 2018\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000003\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsSubjectHeading\u0022 id=\u0022a27758348cbe4664836996aa91c4e7f2\u0022\u003ETUESDAY, 19 JUNE 2018\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000002\u0022\u003EThe Speaker took the Chair at 2 p.m.\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000004\u0022\u003EPrayers.\u003C/p\u003E\n    \u003C/div\u003E\n    \u003Cdiv class=\u0022HpsHansard\u0022\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000005\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsProceedingHeading\u0022 id=\u0022d1efb05a7185457f9fe2543b166a6cc8\u0022\u003ESpeaker\u2019s Rulings\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000006\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsSubjectHeading\u0022 id=\u002279ab965c574847cbbdf759403d05654a\u0022\u003EOverseas Investment Amendment Bill\u2014Inadmissible Amendment\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u002279db8b64-1f9b-4416-9b81-a12963db9cbf\u0022 data-id=\u002292a1f9efe79649d48a29f79c924e1dd8\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000007\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002279db8b64-1f9b-4416-9b81-a12963db9cbf\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u002292a1f9efe79649d48a29f79c924e1dd8\u0022\u003ESPEAKER\u003C/span\u003E: The Overseas Investment Amendment Bill has just been reported to the House by the Finance and Expenditure Committee. The bill contains an amendment at clause 5 of schedule 1AA that exempts a specified property development from the consent provisions of the bill. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000008\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002279db8b64-1f9b-4416-9b81-a12963db9cbf\u0022\u003EBills that come before the House are one of three kinds: public bills, which include Government and members\u2019 bills; private bills; or local bills. A bill may not be a hybrid of two types, as is permitted in the UK House of Commons. Accordingly, matters that should be in one kind of bill cannot be introduced to another kind of bill by way of amendment.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000009\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002279db8b64-1f9b-4416-9b81-a12963db9cbf\u0022\u003EOn rare occasions, Speakers have ruled out such clauses. Speaker Hunt did so when proposed amendments to a public bill were found to belong, more properly, in a private bill\u2014Speaker\u2019s ruling 118/1. Speaker Burke ruled out a clause from the Taxation Reform Bill (No 7). That clause belonged in a local bill. I recall it well because the bill was in my name. A future Speaker, Robin Gray, objected to my attempts to seek leave to retain the clause in the bill\u2014New Zealand Parliamentary Debates, Volume 504, page 14723. Speaker Barnard ruled out four clauses from the Finance Bill (No 2) because they belonged in a private bill\u2014New Zealand Parliamentary Debates, Volume 257, pages 1024 to 1025.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000010\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002279db8b64-1f9b-4416-9b81-a12963db9cbf\u0022\u003EThe distinctions between types of bills matter to this House. Private and local bills affect only a select group of people, rather than the general public. They have specific public notification requirements as a result, to enable others to be aware of proposed bills and to comment on them. Public bills have no such notification requirements. The classification of a bill also changes how the House deals with it and the permitted scope of amendments. If any question arises as to the classification of a bill, the Speaker decides the matter, under Standing Order 253(2).\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000011\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002279db8b64-1f9b-4416-9b81-a12963db9cbf\u0022\u003EIn the case of the Overseas Investment Amendment Bill the amendment in clause 5 of schedule 1AA would exempt a specified property development from the general application of the law. I appreciate that the amendment was made by the Finance and Expenditure Committee at the request of the landowner in order to preserve the value of the land purchased as commercial redress following Treaty of Waitangi settlements. The committee was motivated by a desire to assist and be fair to the landowner. It received a submission and the majority felt it made a good case and was presented as being unique. The project is advanced with a significant reserve established, one world-class golf course open, another planned, and various high-yield tourism and recreation activities. What the committee failed to establish was whether there may have been any other developments similarly advanced and whether significant actual losses could occur.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000012\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002279db8b64-1f9b-4416-9b81-a12963db9cbf\u0022\u003EThe bill currently contains regulation-making powers in new section 61B, which gives the power to grant exemptions from the Act. These powers may be wide enough to grant the exemptions in the clause in question, but if not, the House could consider a more general time-limited amendment.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000013\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002279db8b64-1f9b-4416-9b81-a12963db9cbf\u0022\u003EI would caution committees to be mindful with the nature of amendments they recommend and to carefully consider the advice they receive from the Clerk\u2019s Office on the admissibility of amendments, or to call the Clerk, or in extreme cases myself, if there is still doubt. The amendment is ruled out of order as belonging in a private, not a public, bill. The bill will be reprinted with the amendment struck out.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n    \u003C/div\u003E\n    \u003Cdiv class=\u0022HpsHansard\u0022\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000014\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsProceedingHeading\u0022 id=\u0022c2302d9c4bda4309a138a28f496fb14e\u0022\u003EOral Questions\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000015\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsSubjectHeading\u0022 id=\u002292c46ecf56c14c688f54fc0a4d5aa444\u0022\u003EQuestions to Ministers\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000016\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsSubjectHeading\u0022 id=\u0022aac6b9da6d3b41659ec9013dc14575bc\u0022\u003EFamilies Package\u2014Impact and Reaction\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u0022a8cab3e3-b023-4ce7-9f4b-2c4137029057\u0022 data-id=\u0022025c4f4c96104922a40ed8efe8a77e19\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000017\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022a8cab3e3-b023-4ce7-9f4b-2c4137029057\u0022\u003E1. \u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u0022025c4f4c96104922a40ed8efe8a77e19\u0022\u003EKIRITAPU ALLAN (Labour)\u003C/span\u003E to the Minister of Finance: What feedback has the Government received on the Families Package?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u00226007dc96-f459-4cdd-9972-4fde2c994088\u0022 data-id=\u00222dc5213a78a946d0b96818d4b1720107\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000018\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00226007dc96-f459-4cdd-9972-4fde2c994088\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u00222dc5213a78a946d0b96818d4b1720107\u0022\u003EHon GRANT ROBERTSON (Minister of Finance):\u003C/span\u003E The Government is already receiving supportive feedback from New Zealanders in anticipation of the full impact of the Families Package coming into effect on 1 July. Writing to the Prime Minister, one mother said, \u201CSeeing the Families Package and everything else that you have done and my family actually benefiting from it, I feel so much lighter. We both work hard, but we felt like we were just working to pay the bills, with no money left for other necessities\u2014e.g., clothing and medical.\u201D The correspondent goes on: \u201CI no longer feel like a failure, although in my kids\u2019 eyes I know I\u2019m not. So thank you, again, for making it better for us parents to help keep our children healthy, safe, fed, warm, and happy. With a tear in my eye, I just can\u2019t thank you enough.\u201D I\u2019m proud of this Government for assisting Kiwi families who found it tough just to get on for far too long.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000019\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002279db8b64-1f9b-4416-9b81-a12963db9cbf\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022f65779d1c0c24801875a23c208d944b6\u0022\u003ESPEAKER\u003C/span\u003E: I\u2019m just going to warn the Minister that supplementary replies are going to be succinct, given the extreme length of the initial answer.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000020\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022a8cab3e3-b023-4ce7-9f4b-2c4137029057\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022636eaf6635224b87bf66f85642e1779f\u0022\u003EKiritapu Allan\u003C/span\u003E: What feedback has the Government received on the winter energy payment?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000021\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00226007dc96-f459-4cdd-9972-4fde2c994088\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u002220d208eff1504f758ff607ea700e8f7b\u0022\u003EHon GRANT ROBERTSON\u003C/span\u003E: We\u2019ve heard from Kiwis who have found themselves in tough circumstances as a result of not being able to pay the power bills. As one correspondent said, \u201CThank you so much for the extra money for power. What an amazing surprise and relief that is. As a sickness beneficiary trying to balance unwellness, finances, and life on the bare minimum, which can be challenging, the extra money will make such a difference.\u201D\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000022\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022a8cab3e3-b023-4ce7-9f4b-2c4137029057\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022efad2ad052b345149c2abf8e2cf574f2\u0022\u003EKiritapu Allan\u003C/span\u003E: In what other ways could New Zealanders such as these be better off through the Families Package?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000023\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00226007dc96-f459-4cdd-9972-4fde2c994088\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022a35f47b23cc949178784bc6a402e80d9\u0022\u003EHon GRANT ROBERTSON\u003C/span\u003E: The Families Package will assist middle and low income New Zealanders in a number of ways beyond the winter energy payment: the accommodation supplement increases that are already in place, increasing Working For Families tax credits and raising the abatement threshold, introducing the Best Start payment to assist families during the critical early years of a child\u2019s life, increasing paid parental leave to 26 weeks, and reinstating the independent earner tax credit. I am proud to be part of a Government that is willing to tackle issues such as child poverty head on, and, with our Families Package, we\u2019re doing exactly that.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000024\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022dc6c0f88-e781-476d-bca1-d1bf9b69302b\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u00228319a97fe4fa416bbed470b88190de6a\u0022\u003EHon Amy Adams\u003C/span\u003E: How many New Zealand families, either by number or proportion, will in fact be worse off as a consequence of the decisions in the mini-Budget and the imposition of new and additional petrol taxes?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000025\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00226007dc96-f459-4cdd-9972-4fde2c994088\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u00225e277faa0537456382ea8e3cbd90511f\u0022\u003EHon GRANT ROBERTSON\u003C/span\u003E: I don\u2019t have all of that information with me, but what I can say is that 384,000 families will be better off by $75 per week, on average, when this package is fully rolled out.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000026\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsSubjectHeading\u0022 id=\u0022ccd0702fc5e04e5f857a0fb018cb18b1\u0022\u003EEconomic Programme\u2014Cost of Living, Regional Fuel Tax, and Rental Costs\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u0022badb0a39-849c-462a-b32f-77fc017c9fc2\u0022 data-id=\u0022a5f992996868449784a79317ec0c45f8\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000027\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022badb0a39-849c-462a-b32f-77fc017c9fc2\u0022\u003E2. \u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u0022a5f992996868449784a79317ec0c45f8\u0022\u003EHon SIMON BRIDGES (Leader of the Opposition)\u003C/span\u003E to the Prime Minister: Does she stand by all her statements and policies?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u00223d49aeac-8adf-497b-9400-ab7bb077bb8d\u0022 data-id=\u0022ad5840a8d67c4b73a41da1431b675534\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000028\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00223d49aeac-8adf-497b-9400-ab7bb077bb8d\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u0022ad5840a8d67c4b73a41da1431b675534\u0022\u003ERt Hon WINSTON PETERS (Deputy Prime Minister)\u003C/span\u003E on behalf of the Prime Minister: Yes.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000029\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022badb0a39-849c-462a-b32f-77fc017c9fc2\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u00229a53c2aa154a4ca696be443c6d62969d\u0022\u003EHon Simon Bridges\u003C/span\u003E: Is she concerned that her Government has implemented and proposed policies that will significantly increase the cost of living for hard-working New Zealanders and their families?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000030\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00223d49aeac-8adf-497b-9400-ab7bb077bb8d\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022f817aef788d142429b9748f0a50ad052\u0022\u003ERt Hon WINSTON PETERS\u003C/span\u003E: The basis of that question is unadulterated nonsense.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000031\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022badb0a39-849c-462a-b32f-77fc017c9fc2\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022fc8b40d137aa447ea113f9065f9bd31d\u0022\u003EHon Simon Bridges\u003C/span\u003E: Well, in light of that kind of answer, is she aware that her Government\u2019s decision to increase fuel excise tax and create a new Auckland regional fuel tax will increase costs for an average family by up to $700 a year?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000032\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00223d49aeac-8adf-497b-9400-ab7bb077bb8d\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u002271da327e08b145b88f23ef5405cafeae\u0022\u003ERt Hon WINSTON PETERS\u003C/span\u003E: Again, that is unadulterated rubbish. But, more importantly, in the read-out from the Speaker, that was the Minister that was talking about extra roads all the way to Whangarei, all the way from Hamilton, from the Waikato. Mr Bridges, if you\u2019re going to ask questions, back it up with some consistency. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000033\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022badb0a39-849c-462a-b32f-77fc017c9fc2\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022a054f99a44c64e0f8aad4d07ef05ee2d\u0022\u003EHon Simon Bridges\u003C/span\u003E: Is she really contesting that the regional fuel tax and the excise tax will increase costs in Auckland for families by hundreds and hundreds of dollars from 1 July?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000034\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00223d49aeac-8adf-497b-9400-ab7bb077bb8d\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u00225a2b6c2cc8b24a358da9b178148b8478\u0022\u003ERt Hon WINSTON PETERS\u003C/span\u003E: I don\u2019t know about the Prime Minister, but every sound economist is contesting what that member just said.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000035\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002279db8b64-1f9b-4416-9b81-a12963db9cbf\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022fcc3d45231cd420aae6f5f290df74d0a\u0022\u003ESPEAKER\u003C/span\u003E: Order! I am going to ask the Deputy Prime Minister, in answering for the Prime Minister, to answer the question again in the Prime Minister\u2019s voice.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000036\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00223d49aeac-8adf-497b-9400-ab7bb077bb8d\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022c8a8a0ed40fb40a1b0ef53f127daeb4d\u0022\u003ERt Hon WINSTON PETERS\u003C/span\u003E: On behalf of the Prime Minister, not only am I contesting that but so is every sane sound economist. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000037\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022badb0a39-849c-462a-b32f-77fc017c9fc2\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u002255159c6d621c4f97b0d6191bd6246948\u0022\u003EHon Simon Bridges\u003C/span\u003E: How many more councils are now lining up for the regional fuel tax?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000038\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00223d49aeac-8adf-497b-9400-ab7bb077bb8d\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u00229605e6857ed1428795dd6bb57fa8036c\u0022\u003ERt Hon WINSTON PETERS\u003C/span\u003E: This regional fuel tax from the Minister of Finance was for Auckland specifically\u2014\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000039\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022dc6c0f88-e781-476d-bca1-d1bf9b69302b\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022e91c278318dd42a1a3b8f07514e91863\u0022\u003EHon Amy Adams\u003C/span\u003E: No, no.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000040\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00223d49aeac-8adf-497b-9400-ab7bb077bb8d\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u00222991473eb7424bc08eafba6031c9d80e\u0022\u003ERt Hon WINSTON PETERS\u003C/span\u003E: No, no\u2014hang on. It was for Auckland specifically, and we are waiting to see that unfold.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000041\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00226007dc96-f459-4cdd-9972-4fde2c994088\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u002281db008ef4e84322829dccec8d50a54b\u0022\u003EHon Grant Robertson\u003C/span\u003E: Can I ask the Prime Minister which would have the greatest effect: a regional fuel tax on Auckland, or increasing GST across the board when you said you wouldn\u2019t do it? \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000042\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002279db8b64-1f9b-4416-9b81-a12963db9cbf\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u002226e1c320fc924e72b77791441c1c3772\u0022\u003ESPEAKER\u003C/span\u003E: Order! There\u2019s no responsibility for the second part of that question, and it was also an invitation to the Prime Minister to make an out-of-order reply and I won\u2019t allow it. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000043\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022badb0a39-849c-462a-b32f-77fc017c9fc2\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022ac6df91710854848b28c85c8da0062fd\u0022\u003EHon Simon Bridges\u003C/span\u003E: Well, in light of her answer to my very last supplementary question, why then is her Government actually today legislating for the regional fuel tax to be able to be applied throughout any region in New Zealand\u2014all regions in this country?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000044\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00223d49aeac-8adf-497b-9400-ab7bb077bb8d\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022f8ce9301c1714d49b69f5caae3986063\u0022\u003ERt Hon WINSTON PETERS\u003C/span\u003E: First of all, there is sound polling evidence that suggests that the people of Auckland understand that they need to pay for extra development. They\u2019re happy to pay for a fuel tax, and those same people would prefer that immensely over whacking GST up, having not promised it in the first place.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000045\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e6b4dc55-3561-49a8-a871-ae005354ef90\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u002225fc6637ba9b4363a42a6fb73d139e0c\u0022\u003EHon Gerry Brownlee\u003C/span\u003E: I raise a point of order, Mr Speaker. Perhaps the Deputy Prime Minister, answering for the Prime Minister, can\u2019t hear the question, but it was around a clarification of his comment and a question about why there was now legislation that would enable the regional fuel tax across New Zealand, not just Auckland. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000046\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002279db8b64-1f9b-4416-9b81-a12963db9cbf\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u002276bfbf840152456e941ab722cef67d29\u0022\u003ESPEAKER\u003C/span\u003E: I am going to ask the Prime Minister to answer it again, but he was clarifying her comments\u2014just to make it clear.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000047\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00223d49aeac-8adf-497b-9400-ab7bb077bb8d\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u002270d9fd4de3a048429b465546f961d790\u0022\u003ERt Hon WINSTON PETERS\u003C/span\u003E: The members of the Opposition should full well know, and their leaders should know, that other councils cannot do this until 2021, so any statement of the kind that the Leader of the Opposition is making is demonstrably false. And I see Mr Ross telling him right now that he was wrong, so get up and apologise. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000048\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022badb0a39-849c-462a-b32f-77fc017c9fc2\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022b46ddd0ddfb1444889d69374d130f846\u0022\u003EHon Simon Bridges\u003C/span\u003E: Does she think her Government\u2019s policies such as banning foreign investment, increasing compliance costs, red tape, and putting additional taxes on landlords will increase or decrease the cost of rents for New Zealanders?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000049\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00223d49aeac-8adf-497b-9400-ab7bb077bb8d\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022ed44333b46b142cd8b2938996abcb448\u0022\u003ERt Hon WINSTON PETERS\u003C/span\u003E: The Prime Minister\u2019s concern and Cabinet\u2019s concern is the dysfunctionalism between supply and demand, which grew massive under the former Government of the last nine years, and we are setting out to correct it, which will result in lower rents and lower house prices, and, indeed, lower personal indebtedness.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000050\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022badb0a39-849c-462a-b32f-77fc017c9fc2\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022ee8a81346b1a4a5ca2a7b42eb5a2e1af\u0022\u003EHon Simon Bridges\u003C/span\u003E: So, to confirm, does the Prime Minister think rents are decreasing and will continue to decrease\u2014is that what she\u2019s just told me?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000051\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00223d49aeac-8adf-497b-9400-ab7bb077bb8d\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u00229438cf77696b4a2f96636f6d2c337078\u0022\u003ERt Hon WINSTON PETERS\u003C/span\u003E: The rate of rapid increase that was a past experience of New Zealanders, is going to change, and the affordability\u2014the gap between people\u2019s annualised wages and the cost of housing\u2014will get far closer than the 12 to 13 times that that member and his colleagues had left in this country. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000052\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022badb0a39-849c-462a-b32f-77fc017c9fc2\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022ea3aaf7ea75c42d3a46a0dfde23b6194\u0022\u003EHon Simon Bridges\u003C/span\u003E: Well, has she seen reports by the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment that show rent has increased by $23 a week since she\u2019s taken office?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000053\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00223d49aeac-8adf-497b-9400-ab7bb077bb8d\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u002234081fcd15da4847b3d073451273ffcc\u0022\u003ERt Hon WINSTON PETERS\u003C/span\u003E: No.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000054\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022badb0a39-849c-462a-b32f-77fc017c9fc2\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u00220d896e4592ed4ec4b95e0122018e4c77\u0022\u003EHon Simon Bridges\u003C/span\u003E: Well, is she concerned by such reports of an increased cost for renters?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000055\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00223d49aeac-8adf-497b-9400-ab7bb077bb8d\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u00221de73f59ae00444ea0031666b9e450ed\u0022\u003ERt Hon WINSTON PETERS\u003C/span\u003E: Again, the Prime Minister has been\u2014and so are all her colleagues\u2014concerned about the appalling house price escalations in this country caused by the previous Government doing nothing about it and claiming that there was no crisis at all, until the day after they failed to be in Government. Then all of a sudden, a bit like Columbus discovered America, they discovered it by accident.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000056\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022badb0a39-849c-462a-b32f-77fc017c9fc2\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022afc8bb387afe4006a72a7b99f9b00c34\u0022\u003EHon Simon Bridges\u003C/span\u003E: Well, will the brightline test, ring-fencing losses, the foreign investment ban, and healthy homes legislation not have an effect on rents the way the pundits and the commentators all predict?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000057\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00223d49aeac-8adf-497b-9400-ab7bb077bb8d\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u00221d764af848194960b06173dd00c05eec\u0022\u003ERt Hon WINSTON PETERS\u003C/span\u003E: These are marvellous policies designed to see decent construction in this country and designed to see the prices come down, to make housing and rentals far more affordable. We do not want whole generations on the scrap heap where aspirational homeownership is concerned.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000058\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022badb0a39-849c-462a-b32f-77fc017c9fc2\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u00223666d667a903479d9f21e5b5f2618c5e\u0022\u003EHon Simon Bridges\u003C/span\u003E: Has she seen reports by Otago University that the cost of a weekly supermarket shop has gone up by $21 a week under her Government?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000059\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00223d49aeac-8adf-497b-9400-ab7bb077bb8d\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022fb92564a02ea40089196d2c6cbf4fcbe\u0022\u003ERt Hon WINSTON PETERS\u003C/span\u003E: No.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000060\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022badb0a39-849c-462a-b32f-77fc017c9fc2\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022bbfebb5809534733babb8a0cdcc47923\u0022\u003EHon Simon Bridges\u003C/span\u003E: Has she seen reports in the New Zealand Herald this week that the cost of fruit and vegetables is set to rise because of higher fuel prices, increases to the minimum wage, and the increased cost of rent?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000061\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00223d49aeac-8adf-497b-9400-ab7bb077bb8d\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u002292be048ba89f44d790f41217ce7ff174\u0022\u003ERt Hon WINSTON PETERS\u003C/span\u003E: Yes, but some of those forecasts are not correct. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000062\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022badb0a39-849c-462a-b32f-77fc017c9fc2\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022aa28c11f75a94e2e92d521eacd900318\u0022\u003EHon Simon Bridges\u003C/span\u003E: Is she concerned that GDP forecasts in Budget 2018 were revised down by an average of 0.5 percent per year over the next two years, meaning $500 less in the back pocket of every single New Zealander?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000063\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00223d49aeac-8adf-497b-9400-ab7bb077bb8d\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u00228f2bd48378424e388e2bacd549c52b9e\u0022\u003ERt Hon WINSTON PETERS\u003C/span\u003E: No, I\u2019m just confirming that he would agree with me that it\u2019s poppycock.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000064\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022badb0a39-849c-462a-b32f-77fc017c9fc2\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u00227856869bcc3b4e6898a93c063a620219\u0022\u003EHon Simon Bridges\u003C/span\u003E: Well, what impact would lower GDP growth have on the ability of the average New Zealander to meet their daily living costs?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000065\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00223d49aeac-8adf-497b-9400-ab7bb077bb8d\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022fbbe9dd023424833b45aab455dca18c6\u0022\u003ERt Hon WINSTON PETERS\u003C/span\u003E: Could I just say we don\u2019t deal in hypotheticals; we deal in facts. And this Government is constructing a very sound growth plan for this country. It is a growth plan that sees a series of surpluses, because we are a responsible Government. We believe in fiscal rectitude. We know that there may in the future come a rainy day, and we won\u2019t be doing what that former Government did: borrow six times the debt that they inherited.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000066\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022badb0a39-849c-462a-b32f-77fc017c9fc2\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022dead173056a0434d861643d77cba4984\u0022\u003EHon Simon Bridges\u003C/span\u003E: Does she expect GDP to be higher or lower than the already revised-down forecasts when the numbers are released this Thursday?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000067\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00223d49aeac-8adf-497b-9400-ab7bb077bb8d\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u00222f8b9dfaa8a74a1eb41228bd9cfc9c4f\u0022\u003ERt Hon WINSTON PETERS\u003C/span\u003E: Could I just say it\u2019s axiomatic that GDP will be higher, regardless of how he assembled that question.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000068\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022badb0a39-849c-462a-b32f-77fc017c9fc2\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u002209bd7e5491b948cf9c1010db7e35bd72\u0022\u003EHon Simon Bridges\u003C/span\u003E: Is it correct that her Government has cancelled $40 a week in tax cuts, overseen $15 per week in extra fuel taxes, $23 per week\u2014\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000069\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002279db8b64-1f9b-4416-9b81-a12963db9cbf\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u00228b10886aee174fd79218b2d88a6bdba6\u0022\u003ESPEAKER\u003C/span\u003E: Order! That\u2019s about three questions now.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000070\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e6b4dc55-3561-49a8-a871-ae005354ef90\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022baf2c1bf890e4635a0ab4a09be91c84d\u0022\u003EHon Gerry Brownlee\u003C/span\u003E: What about the list we got from Grant Robertson?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000071\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002279db8b64-1f9b-4416-9b81-a12963db9cbf\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u00228ecd42f02bfd457dad0b1c4690e67099\u0022\u003ESPEAKER\u003C/span\u003E: He\u2019s answering the question, Mr Brownlee. There\u2019s a difference.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000072\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00223d49aeac-8adf-497b-9400-ab7bb077bb8d\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u00220c56df4557104411828e3931db7b3100\u0022\u003ERt Hon WINSTON PETERS\u003C/span\u003E: I\u2019ll answer the first question by making it very clear, on behalf of the Prime Minister, that the so-called tax cuts which the Government inherited came with a massive infrastructural and social neglect cost.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000073\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022badb0a39-849c-462a-b32f-77fc017c9fc2\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u00222ed7dd31439f4e928279da81ee22e520\u0022\u003EHon Simon Bridges\u003C/span\u003E: Will the Prime Minister confirm in light of all of the questions she\u2019s answered today that, in fact, New Zealanders are around $108 a week worse off since her Government took office?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000074\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00223d49aeac-8adf-497b-9400-ab7bb077bb8d\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u002217ea3ad4c1ae4a439a36d7247c27e9bd\u0022\u003ERt Hon WINSTON PETERS\u003C/span\u003E: Definitely no, and, more importantly, in a recent trust survey this Government went up dramatically from the lousy 48 percent we inherited to now 65 percent, and possibly rising. That demonstrates that the public out there simply does not believe the Leader of the Opposition.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000075\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsSubjectHeading\u0022 id=\u00221a9206e4e2e44b33998b882657dbde05\u0022\u003EEconomy\u2014Reports\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u0022dc6c0f88-e781-476d-bca1-d1bf9b69302b\u0022 data-id=\u0022ade929f72c314bc6b403a0296acf4521\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000076\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022dc6c0f88-e781-476d-bca1-d1bf9b69302b\u0022\u003E3. \u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u0022ade929f72c314bc6b403a0296acf4521\u0022\u003EHon AMY ADAMS (National\u2014Selwyn)\u003C/span\u003E to the Minister of Finance: Does he stand by the statements and policies of this Government regarding New Zealand\u2019s economy?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u00226007dc96-f459-4cdd-9972-4fde2c994088\u0022 data-id=\u0022c9cca1090f7e4d40a305e14b27c37641\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000077\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00226007dc96-f459-4cdd-9972-4fde2c994088\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u0022c9cca1090f7e4d40a305e14b27c37641\u0022\u003EHon GRANT ROBERTSON (Minister of Finance):\u003C/span\u003E Yes, in their appropriate context. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000078\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022dc6c0f88-e781-476d-bca1-d1bf9b69302b\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022b51439581cf9415e90ff29d977cabce1\u0022\u003EHon Amy Adams\u003C/span\u003E: If he stands by his commitment to grow prosperity in New Zealand, then how is an economy that is losing momentum, business confidence that is still falling, and a Government that is loading more costs and taxes on to New Zealanders going to help grow our prosperity?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000079\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00226007dc96-f459-4cdd-9972-4fde2c994088\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022304caca0d13043589d4c67ffc40be985\u0022\u003EHon GRANT ROBERTSON\u003C/span\u003E: The Government is not doing virtually any of the things that the member has suggested. I point her to yesterday\u2019s New Zealand Institute of Economic Research (NZIER) consensus forecasts, which show growth in the economy averaging around 3 percent\u2014exactly what\u2019s forecast in the Budget. This Government is actually making progress in shifting us from an economy based on housing speculation and population growth to one that\u2019s based on productivity and sustainability. It might take a bit of time to undo what the previous Government did, but we\u2019re getting on with the job.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000080\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022dc6c0f88-e781-476d-bca1-d1bf9b69302b\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u00222e710b66f6cc4b8fa904fa233210abf0\u0022\u003EHon Amy Adams\u003C/span\u003E: Does he agree with Westpac\u2019s analysis last week that the New Zealand economy will continue to underperform its peers for the next few years, or ASB\u2019s analysis this week that the post-election slump in business confidence has lasted longer than we initially expected\u2014in particular, measures of businesses\u2019 expectations for their own activity\u2014and that New Zealand could be entering a danger zone due to uncertainty and low business confidence?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000081\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00226007dc96-f459-4cdd-9972-4fde2c994088\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022bf1c0ceae47d45e3b2ba8882d606bb7e\u0022\u003EHon GRANT ROBERTSON\u003C/span\u003E: No, I don\u2019t. What I look to is what\u2019s actually happening in the economy. For instance, yesterday we saw the services index, which shows that it\u2019s growing. We\u2019ve seen the BNZ - BusinessNZ Performance of Manufacturing Index staying positive. We saw the Truckometer last week. What the member needs to appreciate is that it will take some time to shift the economy to a more productive, more sustainable basis, away from the previous Government\u2019s speculative approach, but we\u2019re getting on with doing the job.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000082\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022dc6c0f88-e781-476d-bca1-d1bf9b69302b\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022570959d1da384e21a5d935db5360fcef\u0022\u003EHon Amy Adams\u003C/span\u003E: Why are virtually all independent commentators pointing to his Government\u2019s new policies as major contributors to the coming economic slowdown, and yet he stands here denying and deflecting any accountability at all?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000083\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00226007dc96-f459-4cdd-9972-4fde2c994088\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022d6c26a0fc15f41cfab7668db83de0efd\u0022\u003EHon GRANT ROBERTSON\u003C/span\u003E: I reject the assertions in that member\u2019s question, and I point her to yesterday\u2019s consensus forecast brought together by NZIER, which shows that the economy\u2019s growth continues to be solid. We have a big job to do to rebuild infrastructure and make sure that our social services are in a decent state. We\u2019re getting on with the job, but we can\u2019t correct nine years of failure in nine months.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000084\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022dc6c0f88-e781-476d-bca1-d1bf9b69302b\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022d30185207bdf4c7abef6d2d06a12b7c8\u0022\u003EHon Amy Adams\u003C/span\u003E: Does he agree with his colleague David Parker\u2019s assessment that the ANZ business confidence survey is junk, or is this just another example of this Government\u2019s arrogant and dismissive attitude to any advice it doesn\u2019t like?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000085\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00226007dc96-f459-4cdd-9972-4fde2c994088\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u002240c571e3620c49c4a85e89606e7d4c36\u0022\u003EHon GRANT ROBERTSON\u003C/span\u003E: What I would say is that I agree with Cameron Bagrie, who said \u201Cthose surveys are very poor barometers\u201D and that they should be thrown out. We have to look at a range of measures to assess the success of the New Zealand economy.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000086\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsSubjectHeading\u0022 id=\u0022a1074a2d80134d6a95ccf128c47008b7\u0022\u003EKiwiBuild\u2014Supply\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u0022217f4585-f6ef-408d-9318-8a6b8506920b\u0022 data-id=\u00223470894e18cf4d4c90256304df6cc4a9\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000087\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022217f4585-f6ef-408d-9318-8a6b8506920b\u0022\u003E4. \u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u00223470894e18cf4d4c90256304df6cc4a9\u0022\u003EPAUL EAGLE (Labour\u2014Rongotai)\u003C/span\u003E to the Minister of Housing and Urban Development: Is the Government progressing work towards the targets of 1,000 KiwiBuild homes built in 2018/19, 5,000 in 2019/20, and 10,000 in 2020/21; if so, how?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u0022cbc37df2-57ae-4536-94ed-a2e39eecd585\u0022 data-id=\u0022c2bd68df9d064e1fba831915f462da53\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000088\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022cbc37df2-57ae-4536-94ed-a2e39eecd585\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u0022c2bd68df9d064e1fba831915f462da53\u0022\u003EHon PHIL TWYFORD (Minister of Housing and Urban Development):\u003C/span\u003E Yes. In the first years, houses will be built on Housing New Zealand land that has been left vacant for years, such as the first KiwiBuild homes in Papakura, through the Land for Housing programme and through Buying off the Plans in private developments that otherwise would not progress or would be built more slowly. Large-scale developments like that at the Unitec block will take longer to get under way, but will add large numbers of KiwiBuild homes over time. We have set ambitious targets because we are a Government that wants families to have a fair shot at owning a place of their own. We\u2019re going to do our best to meet those targets.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000089\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022217f4585-f6ef-408d-9318-8a6b8506920b\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022c1d4301ea34d4a6390f061387c8a82fe\u0022\u003EPaul Eagle\u003C/span\u003E: What will be the mix of Buying off the Plans, Housing New Zealand, and the Land for Housing programme?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000090\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022cbc37df2-57ae-4536-94ed-a2e39eecd585\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u00223b8f3c86c7534796a38feef6a69e9222\u0022\u003EHon PHIL TWYFORD\u003C/span\u003E: I\u2019m advised that a large number of stalled developments are ready to go. This Government will back them to build homes for Kiwi families. We expect that Buying off the Plans will build 700 to 800 homes in the first year. Housing New Zealand and Land for Housing will build at least 200 to 300 homes this coming year. This mix of sources for KiwiBuild homes means we can build them on both Crown land and privately owned land, and get more homes\u2014\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000091\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e978865e-57e5-41d6-a7f6-b49daae78630\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u002208d6f164a0404402af2aa459f9b9dafa\u0022\u003EHon Dr Nick Smith\u003C/span\u003E: You promised 10,000 a year.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000092\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022cbc37df2-57ae-4536-94ed-a2e39eecd585\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u002206ee99ee00be4389a9df16e344a94436\u0022\u003EHon PHIL TWYFORD\u003C/span\u003E: \u2014built faster.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000093\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002279db8b64-1f9b-4416-9b81-a12963db9cbf\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022da37baab2c0341eb987c5daac9702d20\u0022\u003ESPEAKER\u003C/span\u003E: Order! Dr Smith\u2014\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000094\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022217f4585-f6ef-408d-9318-8a6b8506920b\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u002271d7eb97aae94137a2935705e037c71b\u0022\u003EPaul Eagle\u003C/span\u003E: Supplementary\u2014\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000095\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002279db8b64-1f9b-4416-9b81-a12963db9cbf\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u002213543b694e5e46f582eeb9fdead555aa\u0022\u003ESPEAKER\u003C/span\u003E: No, sorry. Before you go, Mr Eagle, Dr Smith, can you at least get your interjections accurate.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000096\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e978865e-57e5-41d6-a7f6-b49daae78630\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022ef1dabd5965445c7844f45804b03eabd\u0022\u003EHon Dr Nick Smith\u003C/span\u003E: They promised 10,000 a year.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000097\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002279db8b64-1f9b-4416-9b81-a12963db9cbf\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022507a056b4af74a0ba458332e844dd298\u0022\u003ESPEAKER\u003C/span\u003E: That\u2019s much better.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000098\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022217f4585-f6ef-408d-9318-8a6b8506920b\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u00228ee2199d2b444ed8858a11a54e527aa2\u0022\u003EPaul Eagle\u003C/span\u003E: Who will be eligible to buy a KiwiBuild home?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000099\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022cbc37df2-57ae-4536-94ed-a2e39eecd585\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022fbbf514b087d4c1981974d9ddccdc4e3\u0022\u003EHon PHIL TWYFORD\u003C/span\u003E: Well, even people who have good jobs\u2014for example, teachers, tradies, office workers\u2014have found themselves locked out of buying their first home by the national housing crisis. KiwiBuild has always been about restoring the Kiwi Dream for our families. Cabinet will soon consider the final details of the eligibility criteria, and I look forward to announcing them soon after.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000100\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsSubjectHeading\u0022 id=\u002293d0442f45a34e6f9463db44b887b1ed\u0022\u003EHealth Services\u2014Nurses\u2019 Collective Agreement Negotiations\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u0022c83012b4-3939-4753-80fc-1956a3e2bd1e\u0022 data-id=\u0022fe04b005d6da4930a04f095d0cd847f6\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000101\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022c83012b4-3939-4753-80fc-1956a3e2bd1e\u0022\u003E5. \u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u0022fe04b005d6da4930a04f095d0cd847f6\u0022\u003EHon MICHAEL WOODHOUSE (National)\u003C/span\u003E to the Minister of Health: Does he stand by his statements after the revised DHB Multi-Employer Collective Agreement offer was strongly rejected by the New Zealand Nurses Organisation members yesterday that \u201CWe have gone as far as we can in terms of extra Government money\u201D and \u201CI hope cool heads will prevail and industrial action can be avoided\u201D?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u00225bbd9f26-fdb0-4b85-a836-0fc46e1bba3c\u0022 data-id=\u0022c6d854f4e7734c08bd9da3f551e18730\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000102\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00225bbd9f26-fdb0-4b85-a836-0fc46e1bba3c\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u0022c6d854f4e7734c08bd9da3f551e18730\u0022\u003EHon Dr DAVID CLARK (Minister of Health):\u003C/span\u003E Yes. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000103\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022c83012b4-3939-4753-80fc-1956a3e2bd1e\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022f205ecc31fb044b7bdc74d662972afe2\u0022\u003EHon Michael Woodhouse\u003C/span\u003E: Does he agree with the Deputy Prime Minister that \u201CIt\u2019s no good fighting with a megaphone and negotiating through the media.\u201D, and if so, why did he do just that yesterday by stating through the media that there was nothing more to offer? \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000104\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00225bbd9f26-fdb0-4b85-a836-0fc46e1bba3c\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022acf9f565f044448684552be4ef705742\u0022\u003EHon Dr DAVID CLARK\u003C/span\u003E: As the member knows, these negotiations are between the district health boards (DHBs) and the New Zealand Nurses Organisation. The Minister of Health is not party to the negotiations. I am, however, encouraged that both sides are still committed to trying to avoid industrial action and are talking about urgent mediation and facilitation. What I would note, though, is that the Government has already put an extra quarter of a billion dollars into the package to double the initial package offered to nurses, but, sadly, we can\u2019t turn around nine years of neglect in one pay round. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000105\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022c83012b4-3939-4753-80fc-1956a3e2bd1e\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u002272c43cf17fe04f7fa3875619f8d915f5\u0022\u003EHon Michael Woodhouse\u003C/span\u003E: Does he accept that a material cause of the situation the Government faces is down to the massively inflated wage expectations raised by him and his Government that\u2014despite his involvement in November and the Prime Minister\u2019s in February\u2014were not met by the latest offer? \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000106\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00225bbd9f26-fdb0-4b85-a836-0fc46e1bba3c\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022e356edfa0cee46e7879de4681c4ea7a0\u0022\u003EHon Dr DAVID CLARK\u003C/span\u003E: No. The demand from nurses for better pay and conditions was not created in the last eight months. It was created over the last nine years of underfunding and neglect under that Government. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000107\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002295945ace-51e8-4dbc-a0e3-c19f4ed99ed9\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022a44d308bf0ab4889aa70dc317b1f4464\u0022\u003EAnahila Kanongata\u2019a-Suisuiki\u003C/span\u003E: T\u0113n\u0101 koe e Te Mana Whakaw\u0101. What is the Minister\u2019s response to nurses\u2019 concerns that DHBs have failed to properly implement safe staffing measures? \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000108\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00225bbd9f26-fdb0-4b85-a836-0fc46e1bba3c\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u00228a5f127dde42485ba3dce00069f816d9\u0022\u003EHon Dr DAVID CLARK\u003C/span\u003E: The Government shares those concerns, and that\u2019s why we\u2019re committed to funding an extra 500 nurses and the proper implementation of safe staffing measures. That is something that the previous Government spectacularly failed to do, despite having nine years to do so. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000109\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022c83012b4-3939-4753-80fc-1956a3e2bd1e\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022eac53d167f2e4bbe95a6b0c19793506a\u0022\u003EHon Michael Woodhouse\u003C/span\u003E: In light of his answer to my previous supplementary, is he disagreeing with the Deputy Prime Minister, who stated this morning, \u201Cperhaps the expectations \u2026 we\u2019ve given them are too high.\u201D? \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000110\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00225bbd9f26-fdb0-4b85-a836-0fc46e1bba3c\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u00228dfe7cd0c6574c49a351b543f7e358bb\u0022\u003EHon Dr DAVID CLARK\u003C/span\u003E: Expectations, as I said, have not been created in the last eight months. Those expectations were created over the last nine years of underfunding and neglect by that former Government. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000111\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00223d49aeac-8adf-497b-9400-ab7bb077bb8d\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022e4e84a8dc3cc4f7cb59a151e6cfa1894\u0022\u003ERt Hon Winston Peters\u003C/span\u003E: Would the Minister be surprised to learn that at the end of that comment this morning was the added statement that we can\u2019t fix up all these problems in just one Budget?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000112\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00225bbd9f26-fdb0-4b85-a836-0fc46e1bba3c\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u00229695e662291243adb355222b128a8eef\u0022\u003EHon Dr DAVID CLARK\u003C/span\u003E: I wouldn\u2019t be surprised to learn that. That is wise indeed. We cannot fix nine years of underfunding in one pay round.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000113\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022c83012b4-3939-4753-80fc-1956a3e2bd1e\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u002238aa2152f6e1467986c0536d4a55746d\u0022\u003EHon Michael Woodhouse\u003C/span\u003E: On how many occasions between November 2008 and October 2017 did nurses take strike action?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000114\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00225bbd9f26-fdb0-4b85-a836-0fc46e1bba3c\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022db08f5f933c447568b004fd5c2e1659f\u0022\u003EHon Dr DAVID CLARK\u003C/span\u003E: I don\u2019t have responsibility for that period of Government, but I do know, of course, that the nurses became incredibly frustrated with the fact that the health system was underfunded, that they were increasingly stretched, and that frustration has now come to the surface.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000115\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsSubjectHeading\u0022 id=\u00226a854481e08d4cc695bb5328a573bffb\u0022\u003EHealth, Minister\u2014Counties Manukau District Health Board\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u0022163d0b68-eb0e-4094-9bed-99e184f063e1\u0022 data-id=\u00220e61d0a931214ada8ad7d2b0a1b9f47c\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000116\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022163d0b68-eb0e-4094-9bed-99e184f063e1\u0022\u003E6. \u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u00220e61d0a931214ada8ad7d2b0a1b9f47c\u0022\u003EJAMI-LEE ROSS (National\u2014Botany)\u003C/span\u003E to the Minister of Health: Does he stand by all his statements, actions, and voicemails in relation to the Counties Manukau DHB?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u00225bbd9f26-fdb0-4b85-a836-0fc46e1bba3c\u0022 data-id=\u0022500fa2114c05423eaec118cd26a19f9b\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000117\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00225bbd9f26-fdb0-4b85-a836-0fc46e1bba3c\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u0022500fa2114c05423eaec118cd26a19f9b\u0022\u003EHon Dr DAVID CLARK (Minister of Health):\u003C/span\u003E Yes, in the context they were made and taken. [Minister remains standing]\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000118\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002279db8b64-1f9b-4416-9b81-a12963db9cbf\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u002205cc4281555b48f2a92c87a03e06419c\u0022\u003ESPEAKER\u003C/span\u003E: One of you sit down.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000119\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022163d0b68-eb0e-4094-9bed-99e184f063e1\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u002207c8610299624fbc90ce1c8c6abb2703\u0022\u003EJami-Lee Ross\u003C/span\u003E: Why did he ignore pleas from Counties Manukau District Health Board (DHB) acting Chair Rabin Rabindran, who, in phone calls and text messages, repeatedly asked him to stop making statements that were false and damaging to Mr Rabindran\u2019s reputation?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000120\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00225bbd9f26-fdb0-4b85-a836-0fc46e1bba3c\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022ae29445b3c5a42b789a107b9a19ecdf9\u0022\u003EHon Dr DAVID CLARK\u003C/span\u003E: I reject the assertion. What I will say is that Mr Rabindran did indicate to me that he was concerned about his reputation, and that is why I was keen to offer him the potential for other roles in order to give him a gracious exit.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000121\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022163d0b68-eb0e-4094-9bed-99e184f063e1\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u002270e60bd1141543789d76f959bdd82049\u0022\u003EJami-Lee Ross\u003C/span\u003E: If he rejects the assertion of my previous question, did he read the text message to him on 24 April where Mr Rabindran said\u2014and I quote\u2014\u201CI need to draw your attention to your comment to the media, that is being continuously quoted, that I apologised for not telling you about the state of the other buildings, which is not correct.\u201D?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000122\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00225bbd9f26-fdb0-4b85-a836-0fc46e1bba3c\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u002291578b3275f7457ab8c2d4006631cafd\u0022\u003EHon Dr DAVID CLARK\u003C/span\u003E: My concern that I expressed to the media was that the state of other buildings was not raised with me when we met face to face. There are across New Zealand more than a hundred buildings that are not up to scratch, but when I visit DHBs, as they did with the Scott building, I expect those issues to be brought my attention face to face, not buried in a report.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000123\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022163d0b68-eb0e-4094-9bed-99e184f063e1\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u002276bc8455e4b34b8dab53a52f20aef7f3\u0022\u003EJami-Lee Ross\u003C/span\u003E: Why did he allow his office to put pressure on the CEO of the Counties Manukau DHB not to release documents that would\u2019ve contradicted his own public statements that he wasn\u2019t briefed on the visit on 13 March\u2014a situation the CEO describes as expecting her to \u201Csuck it up\u201D?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000124\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00225bbd9f26-fdb0-4b85-a836-0fc46e1bba3c\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022c0e275fdcadc4c3287902f6c1b21be5a\u0022\u003EHon Dr DAVID CLARK\u003C/span\u003E: I reject the premise of that question.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000125\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022163d0b68-eb0e-4094-9bed-99e184f063e1\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022e98e2dbdc607482ea8699250fb1d0471\u0022\u003EJami-Lee Ross\u003C/span\u003E: Has he seen or received a copy of the chief executive\u2019s email to district health board members, which is now public and which says \u201CUnfortunately we are under some pressure from the Minister\u2019s office about what we can and can\u2019t say.\u201D and also says\u2014I quote\u2014\u201C[they] want us esp me to \u2018suck it up\u2019.\u201D?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000126\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00225bbd9f26-fdb0-4b85-a836-0fc46e1bba3c\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u002256f2dcc78e3f4aecb4667422bc38da73\u0022\u003EHon Dr DAVID CLARK\u003C/span\u003E: I have subsequently seen a copy of the email. I would note that the DHB commented frequently in the media on all of these issues.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000127\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022163d0b68-eb0e-4094-9bed-99e184f063e1\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022b46aca87be1c432cab49db43ab56ce23\u0022\u003EJami-Lee Ross\u003C/span\u003E: Did he meet the Cabinet Manual standard of acting lawfully and to the highest ethical standards when his voicemail message on 18 April tried to stop Mr Rabindran from speaking publicly by offering to appoint him to future positions?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000128\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00225bbd9f26-fdb0-4b85-a836-0fc46e1bba3c\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022148c95f62ce546aca943dab00d18f05c\u0022\u003EHon Dr DAVID CLARK\u003C/span\u003E: I reject the member\u2019s assertion.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000129\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsSubjectHeading\u0022 id=\u0022fdc47f2c1dcf448fb690234d4289b40e\u0022\u003EState Services\u2014Wages\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u0022c21f4beb-20c4-4b12-bc6f-fdc931e2dc96\u0022 data-id=\u00229ae838a799d545e0affbb8eb5255f152\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000130\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022c21f4beb-20c4-4b12-bc6f-fdc931e2dc96\u0022\u003E7. \u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u00229ae838a799d545e0affbb8eb5255f152\u0022\u003EVIRGINIA ANDERSEN (Labour)\u003C/span\u003E to the Minister of State Services: What action is he taking to lift the wages for the lowest-paid workers in our public services?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u00221dbd2811-8e58-4ffb-848d-31c0eaa9690a\u0022 data-id=\u0022289b0fef260d43f6a338d8437b1f793b\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000131\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00221dbd2811-8e58-4ffb-848d-31c0eaa9690a\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u0022289b0fef260d43f6a338d8437b1f793b\u0022\u003EHon CHRIS HIPKINS (Minister of State Services):\u003C/span\u003E Last week, I announced that the lowest-paid workers in the core Public Service will receive at least the 2018 living wage of $20.55 an hour from 1 September. This will lift the wages of 2,000 workers across 13 Government departments, including some clerical workers, administration workers, welfare workers, and contact centre workers.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000132\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022c21f4beb-20c4-4b12-bc6f-fdc931e2dc96\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022bbe580ea9ee84d3e9c887c09af0eddef\u0022\u003EVirginia Andersen\u003C/span\u003E: What else is the Government doing to lift wages and conditions for workers on low incomes?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000133\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00221dbd2811-8e58-4ffb-848d-31c0eaa9690a\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u002203e3a6431ca84ee3bdfe82aa5f891c47\u0022\u003EHon CHRIS HIPKINS\u003C/span\u003E: The Government has also set new, clear expectations for employment relations in the State sector that employers will work to narrow the gap between the highest and lowest earners in their organisations. We\u2019re also progressing pay equity claims and initiatives to close the gender pay gap. Of note, of those who will benefit from the living wage announcement, 70 percent are women. For the lowest-paid workers in New Zealand, this Government is raising the minimum wage to $20 an hour by 1 April 2021, and 384,000 families and children will be better off by an average of $75 per week from the Families Package when it\u2019s fully rolled out.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000134\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsSubjectHeading\u0022 id=\u0022eeb1969356ac41c097d2f80801efb54b\u0022\u003EPrisons\u2014Definition of Low-level Offenders\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u002248a02a21-c1ac-4159-8789-485ad614bd01\u0022 data-id=\u0022ff53dc1964164cc588f93c47c47a7c00\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000135\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002248a02a21-c1ac-4159-8789-485ad614bd01\u0022\u003E8. \u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u0022ff53dc1964164cc588f93c47c47a7c00\u0022\u003EHon MARK MITCHELL (National\u2014Rodney)\u003C/span\u003E to the Minister of Justice: Does he stand by all his statements and actions regarding his Government\u2019s justice policies?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u0022106966ef-8cc3-434a-9dbe-dd76b708c2a1\u0022 data-id=\u00228b134e9abdb54518be9f9ca0c9851990\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000136\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022106966ef-8cc3-434a-9dbe-dd76b708c2a1\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u00228b134e9abdb54518be9f9ca0c9851990\u0022\u003EHon ANDREW LITTLE (Minister of Justice):\u003C/span\u003E Yes, in the context in which they were made or conducted. I particularly stand by my statement regarding the Judith Collins 2014 Family Court changes that \u201CWhat we are seeing now is incredible delays in the Family Court and particularly where children are concerned, that\u2019s not fair.\u201D\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000137\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002248a02a21-c1ac-4159-8789-485ad614bd01\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u002232d1debcc3c543f0a73d87abb524a143\u0022\u003EHon Mark Mitchell\u003C/span\u003E: In light of his statements on the weekend regarding low-level offenders in prison, what is a low-level offender?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000138\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022106966ef-8cc3-434a-9dbe-dd76b708c2a1\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022e9eefdb261a34ac6a1885b7a38cf0bbf\u0022\u003EHon ANDREW LITTLE\u003C/span\u003E: There are offenders going through our criminal justice system who, according to the sentences available to courts to impose on those offenders, are regarded as at the low-level offending end of the spectrum. Some of those offenders are repeat offenders and some wind up in prison. The challenge that we all face is whether we continue the previous Government\u2019s promotion of an American-style criminal justice system or whether we actually do something to fix the problem.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000139\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002248a02a21-c1ac-4159-8789-485ad614bd01\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u002278610b1492c04571a059698aa3f3888a\u0022\u003EHon Mark Mitchell\u003C/span\u003E: Are non-violent class A drug dealers low-level offenders?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000140\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022106966ef-8cc3-434a-9dbe-dd76b708c2a1\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u00228ec011909dd241fd96f8d54f16104f28\u0022\u003EHon ANDREW LITTLE\u003C/span\u003E: As I said in the interview which I think the member was alluding to previously, it is simply not possible to make a generalisation about such a statement. Where the class A drug offending entails stand-over tactics and violence, then prison is the right place for that offender.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000141\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002248a02a21-c1ac-4159-8789-485ad614bd01\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u00220ba2eea6c61b4d8f9936c632ccd2ac45\u0022\u003EHon Mark Mitchell\u003C/span\u003E: Are prisoners who commit indecent assault low-level offenders?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000142\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022106966ef-8cc3-434a-9dbe-dd76b708c2a1\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u00223ed9d97c9e994a30ac0944aba84aa36e\u0022\u003EHon ANDREW LITTLE\u003C/span\u003E: The member is alluding to the offender I referred to in a question last week, relating to the pinching of a prison officer\u2019s bottom. The issue there is that however insidious, unwelcome, and unacceptable that nature of offending is, seven years in prison without parole is not the right sanction for it.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000143\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002248a02a21-c1ac-4159-8789-485ad614bd01\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u002287496a8ed63c4995a3a2738ff4ed417f\u0022\u003EHon Mark Mitchell\u003C/span\u003E: Are prisoners who commit indecent assault low-level offenders?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000144\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022106966ef-8cc3-434a-9dbe-dd76b708c2a1\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022b14e32f17fee44379512d111a6f7ee4d\u0022\u003EHon ANDREW LITTLE\u003C/span\u003E: I think I\u2019ve answered that question previously.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000145\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsSubjectHeading\u0022 id=\u0022400faf13d84744cbad4e8b380dcb0441\u0022\u003ETourism\u2014International Visitor Levy\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u00224a25943b-cb3b-49c3-bd10-74316fae17f1\u0022 data-id=\u002269b576bcc5ee4d69b832d3d0a1c8321b\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000146\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00224a25943b-cb3b-49c3-bd10-74316fae17f1\u0022\u003E9. \u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u002269b576bcc5ee4d69b832d3d0a1c8321b\u0022\u003EHon JACQUI DEAN (National\u2014Waitaki)\u003C/span\u003E to the Minister of Tourism: Does he stand by all his statements and actions in relation to the Tourism portfolio?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u0022802874a3-deca-48b7-9d33-9087058892f5\u0022 data-id=\u00228afad08f4d85440b8dbbb390ad406607\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000147\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022802874a3-deca-48b7-9d33-9087058892f5\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u00228afad08f4d85440b8dbbb390ad406607\u0022\u003EHon KELVIN DAVIS (Minister of Tourism):\u003C/span\u003E Yes, in the context they were given.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000148\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00224a25943b-cb3b-49c3-bd10-74316fae17f1\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u002263188487bb1b4dbb8416c3841807b607\u0022\u003EHon Jacqui Dean\u003C/span\u003E: What percentage of the $57 million to $80 million raised from the international visitor levy will be used up in collection, administration, and distribution?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000149\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022802874a3-deca-48b7-9d33-9087058892f5\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022c8c871b152944422b4932056a475aff3\u0022\u003EHon KELVIN DAVIS\u003C/span\u003E: The money that\u2019s going to be collected through the international visitor levy will be divided between tourism and conservation. We\u2019ve got a consultation document out, and we are expecting to hear from the sector as to what they think the split should be.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000150\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00224a25943b-cb3b-49c3-bd10-74316fae17f1\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u002214021c844e69458aa0b5f93c42acc65c\u0022\u003EHon Jacqui Dean\u003C/span\u003E: Is he really saying that he doesn\u2019t know how much the Government is proposing to spend on collection, administration, and distribution costs?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000151\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022802874a3-deca-48b7-9d33-9087058892f5\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022a5303713df874855bc9e30971d1e845b\u0022\u003EHon KELVIN DAVIS\u003C/span\u003E: No. What I said is that we\u2019re consulting with the sector on what the split should be.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000152\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002279db8b64-1f9b-4416-9b81-a12963db9cbf\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u00229946d4f1c1d74f5390a6ca7b9dd10067\u0022\u003ESPEAKER\u003C/span\u003E: Order! It is now the fourth time that the Leader of the Opposition has improperly interjected. He is the senior member of the Opposition, and I think he should show a bit of leadership around obeying the rules.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000153\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00224a25943b-cb3b-49c3-bd10-74316fae17f1\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022b0141b120039498e938a6d46cd21bf48\u0022\u003EHon Jacqui Dean\u003C/span\u003E: Does he agree with the recent report from Deloitte that says international visitors contributed $3.2 billion, or 3 percent, of the general tax taken in 2017 and which concludes that tourism visitors are already making a proportionate tax contribution to New Zealand?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000154\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022802874a3-deca-48b7-9d33-9087058892f5\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022b1d7ee027f8245368c14099067537e80\u0022\u003EHon KELVIN DAVIS\u003C/span\u003E: Tourists are making a decent contribution, but also, just in terms of the international visitor levy, I believe that the impact on it is going to be 0.84 percent. In other words, the international visitor levy isn\u2019t going to make any difference, and GST is just one way that tourists contribute.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000155\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00226590faa0-f76b-4386-84f3-9b06296cc772\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u00226dd410d986814b5c811d3b07234c9d06\u0022\u003ETamati Coffey\u003C/span\u003E: What support has the Minister received on the implementation of an international tourist and conservation levy?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000156\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022802874a3-deca-48b7-9d33-9087058892f5\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u002282d0c044ad2546fc856e2c989af0d557\u0022\u003EHon KELVIN DAVIS\u003C/span\u003E: I have received reports from businesses, local government, and industry supporting the levy\u2014comments like: \u201CIt is clear that people living in a booming place with infrastructure challenges need some sort of tourism tax.\u201D, \u201CIt\u2019s very hard to believe small charges would have any great impact on visitor numbers.\u201D, and \u201CDoing nothing is not an option.\u201D Those comments were from the Leader of the Opposition, Simon Bridges, and the former Minister of Tourism John Key. I thank them for their support.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000157\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsSubjectHeading\u0022 id=\u0022a25413876a304ccd977450e6b1aa91de\u0022\u003ERegional Economic Development\u2014Announcements, Provincial Growth Fund, and Reports\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u0022676b0bc5-331b-4818-b261-ecf892d0bf23\u0022 data-id=\u0022a8a43e1fd4674e759f0b0d8913702ce1\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000158\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022676b0bc5-331b-4818-b261-ecf892d0bf23\u0022\u003E10. \u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u0022a8a43e1fd4674e759f0b0d8913702ce1\u0022\u003EJENNY MARCROFT (NZ First)\u003C/span\u003E to the Minister for Regional Economic Development: What recent announcements has he made regarding regional economic development?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u0022f44431ef-b505-4e94-9f57-a60b0a569bf7\u0022 data-id=\u0022c5e352e63ec94153b417e7ae0e8c7f44\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000159\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022f44431ef-b505-4e94-9f57-a60b0a569bf7\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u0022c5e352e63ec94153b417e7ae0e8c7f44\u0022\u003EHon SHANE JONES (Minister for Regional Economic Development):\u003C/span\u003E A bountiful supply of good news. Last week, on behalf of the Government, I announced a $10 million loan for the high-speed gondola on the Whakapapa ski field. This will enable people whose ambulance isn\u2019t what it should be to enjoy that vista. It is very friendly towards senior citizens, who also will have the opportunity to go up the mountain and enjoy that part of New Zealand\u2019s natural landscape. The development of the gondola will create up to 150 jobs, and it is speculated that nigh on 400 jobs, additionally, will be created.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000160\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022676b0bc5-331b-4818-b261-ecf892d0bf23\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022a91c4eb928ce4b6dbf62dcd9d72942a2\u0022\u003EJenny Marcroft\u003C/span\u003E: What recent reports has he seen regarding regional development?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000161\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022f44431ef-b505-4e94-9f57-a60b0a569bf7\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022469951b3658346c68debc54115d471d3\u0022\u003EHon SHANE JONES\u003C/span\u003E: Today I have received a report from Te Tai Poutini - the West Coast. They are confident that now they have been identified as a surge region, they are no longer lost with a small, paltry promise of less than $11 million, which was never delivered over the last nine years. I have encouraged them to bring an expansive, broad set of proposals forward, and I am sure that that report will turn into genuine economic growth to diversify the revenue bases of the West Coast.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000162\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022676b0bc5-331b-4818-b261-ecf892d0bf23\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u002246d69f44d9204c7d9613c57c23367e12\u0022\u003EJenny Marcroft\u003C/span\u003E: How is the Provincial Growth Fund structured to ensure all regions benefit from it?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000163\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022f44431ef-b505-4e94-9f57-a60b0a569bf7\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u00224de440f752164cff86c04ec1727753d5\u0022\u003EHon SHANE JONES\u003C/span\u003E: There have been some tawdry and unkind things said about the breadth of the fund. The fund has the services of a highly respected New Zealand businessman, Mr Rodger Finlay. That particular panel is ensuring that the opportunities that are originated and promoted come from the four winds, and that we are disposed of these unkind, cruel things said about Northland and those former National MPs who had to turn to Matua Shane Jones in order for their dreams to be achieved.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000164\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00223d49aeac-8adf-497b-9400-ab7bb077bb8d\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022e1e8130998ce40aaa95cff30ecf715df\u0022\u003ERt Hon Winston Peters\u003C/span\u003E: Can I ask the Minister as to whether it\u2019s a fact that this regional development fund is, per capita, the biggest in the OECD by far?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000165\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022f44431ef-b505-4e94-9f57-a60b0a569bf7\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u00227bad3052863c40958555e47161d137ee\u0022\u003EHon SHANE JONES\u003C/span\u003E: Yes, I have been informed by a whole host of economic development experts that nowhere in the OECD per capita, based on our regional population, is there a fund that approaches anywhere near the strength, the reach, and the power of this fund. And it\u2019s with great humility that my hand is on the tiller.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000166\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsSubjectHeading\u0022 id=\u002223cef405a0e2440fac117fcf05d6b74f\u0022\u003EOverseas Investment\u2014Creswell NZ Ltd\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u0022eaf79431-1033-44f1-a633-22633da52c0d\u0022 data-id=\u002293bd286631b84a05bb35a0f51e68d190\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000167\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022eaf79431-1033-44f1-a633-22633da52c0d\u0022\u003E11. \u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u002293bd286631b84a05bb35a0f51e68d190\u0022\u003EHon DAVID BENNETT (National\u2014Hamilton East)\u003C/span\u003E to the Minister for Land Information: Does she stand by all her actions and statements in regard to the Creswell NZ Ltd application?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u0022e122e0e6-61c6-4d17-9a79-6ad2ac7d127e\u0022 data-id=\u00223c6442bc357948b49a984e360990f69d\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000168\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e122e0e6-61c6-4d17-9a79-6ad2ac7d127e\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u00223c6442bc357948b49a984e360990f69d\u0022\u003EHon EUGENIE SAGE (Minister for Land Information):\u003C/span\u003E Yes, in their appropriate context.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000169\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022eaf79431-1033-44f1-a633-22633da52c0d\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u00222996c1e595304ed4a2d48db7e0a501de\u0022\u003EHon David Bennett\u003C/span\u003E: Will the Overseas Investment Amendment Bill make any changes to the tests that were applied to determine the Creswell NZ application?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000170\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002279db8b64-1f9b-4416-9b81-a12963db9cbf\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u00225f77b2fbe4b04136b41b70b81ddb40cf\u0022\u003ESPEAKER\u003C/span\u003E: Order! I first of all want to receive an assurance that the introduction of that bill is the responsibility of this Minister. [Interruption] No. David Bennett\u2014further supplementary.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000171\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022eaf79431-1033-44f1-a633-22633da52c0d\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u00223902eb8ba6a049e9920ad481f8173575\u0022\u003EHon David Bennett\u003C/span\u003E: What independent economic advice did the Minister receive to determine that there was a substantial and identifiable benefit to New Zealand from the Creswell NZ application?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000172\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e122e0e6-61c6-4d17-9a79-6ad2ac7d127e\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022125a8b9c651a4e50b5ad4c6dfa871f27\u0022\u003EHon EUGENIE SAGE\u003C/span\u003E: I and the Associate Minister of Finance, the Hon David Clark, received advice from the Overseas Investment Office, as we do with other applications. There was information about the increased number of jobs, 60; the increased investment, $42.5 million; the increased export receipts.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000173\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022eaf79431-1033-44f1-a633-22633da52c0d\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u002214b01aa7658b41959b268942141616cb\u0022\u003EHon David Bennett\u003C/span\u003E: Why didn\u2019t she follow the precedent of other Ministers, such as in the Lochinver Station and Auckland Airport decisions, in declining those applications where the Overseas Investment Office had recommended approving the decision?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000174\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e122e0e6-61c6-4d17-9a79-6ad2ac7d127e\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u00228c83a88fa7f04e20ab37ea6c85db77de\u0022\u003EHon EUGENIE SAGE\u003C/span\u003E: Because the criteria in sections 16 and 17 of the Overseas Investment Act refer to \u201Csubstantial and identifiable\u201D benefits, and the information provided showed that the application satisfied those criteria. So I made the decision under the law.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000175\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e6b4dc55-3561-49a8-a871-ae005354ef90\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022cb602b15d8db4ae6b560755eedd3d3de\u0022\u003EHon Gerry Brownlee\u003C/span\u003E: I raise a point of order, Mr Speaker. Just with regard to your ruling out that first supplementary, the Minister may not be responsible for the bill that\u2019s currently before the House, but is surely responsible for advice that would have been provided in the formation of that bill. The question was about the advice that would have been provided by way of asking: \u201CIs it a provision?\u201D\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000176\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00223d49aeac-8adf-497b-9400-ab7bb077bb8d\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022608cb551ace6487faefd3f38fc5e4cbb\u0022\u003ERt Hon Winston Peters\u003C/span\u003E: With respect, Mr Brownlee can\u2019t belatedly raise that issue. He has to raise his point of order at the time. He didn\u2019t.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000177\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002279db8b64-1f9b-4416-9b81-a12963db9cbf\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022666d7c324e3a49b7b3f3c628e28a87a9\u0022\u003ESPEAKER\u003C/span\u003E: That is accurate.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000178\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e6b4dc55-3561-49a8-a871-ae005354ef90\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u00221fa23015a62248fb988f9bdb6c2fd01e\u0022\u003EHon Gerry Brownlee\u003C/span\u003E: Speaking to the point of order, that is accurate, but we\u2019re still on that question, and while\u2014I\u2019m only working at a slightly faster pace than the Deputy Prime Minister, Mr Speaker. [Interruption] \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000179\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002279db8b64-1f9b-4416-9b81-a12963db9cbf\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u00220ce3de6523074354a902b435c5b5ec96\u0022\u003ESPEAKER\u003C/span\u003E: Order! We now have, I think, four Ministers who have interjected while Mr Brownlee has been on his feet for a point of order. I think it\u2019s fair to say that there is some basis for the reply to the point of order on the part of the Deputy Prime Minister. I think it\u2019s around Speakers\u2019 ruling 20/3, which is the immediacy\u2014it is important to raise things immediately. It is also a question of remedy. We\u2019re now well past that supplementary question. I asked whether the member had responsibility for the area she was being asked questions about. She indicated that she did not, and I just accepted that.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000180\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e6b4dc55-3561-49a8-a871-ae005354ef90\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022bc10027b8c3b4d78b8aeca21e3ddb658\u0022\u003EHon Gerry Brownlee\u003C/span\u003E: I raise a point of order, Mr Speaker. Well, just to clear this up, because I thought\u2014I have viewed the House today running in a fairly smooth sort of way, which you\u2019ve desired, and I thought it was inappropriate to interrupt the flow of the questions until we got to the end of it. But I think it\u2019s a really interesting point that if there is a bill before the House which a Minister clearly should have an input into, on the basis that their name is not on the bill, they don\u2019t have to answer any questions about that input. I think that would be very bad for the House\u2019s scrutiny of the executive. And\u2014\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000181\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002279db8b64-1f9b-4416-9b81-a12963db9cbf\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u00229832e01a54b04d87976cece7f7c61ebd\u0022\u003ESPEAKER\u003C/span\u003E: Can\u2014\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000182\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e6b4dc55-3561-49a8-a871-ae005354ef90\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022500deb27c73141dd8c02effb81431f34\u0022\u003EHon Gerry Brownlee\u003C/span\u003E: If I may, while I\u2019m on my feet?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000183\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002279db8b64-1f9b-4416-9b81-a12963db9cbf\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u00223b7ff12b7d1248d78338320a5fdec74d\u0022\u003ESPEAKER\u003C/span\u003E: Sure.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000184\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e6b4dc55-3561-49a8-a871-ae005354ef90\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u00229e98a72188634322955ff46e8833c248\u0022\u003EHon Gerry Brownlee\u003C/span\u003E: Given that there were four interjections and we\u2019re slightly short of supplementaries for the next question, how do you feel about that?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000185\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002279db8b64-1f9b-4416-9b81-a12963db9cbf\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022087dffce575b4b0db22a51602d7a549f\u0022\u003ESPEAKER\u003C/span\u003E: Well, on the fact that the side\u2019s a couple up and, unfortunately, some of the members who were supporting him also were involved in the exercise, I think we\u2019ll leave that there. What I am going to do is ask David Bennett to ask the question exactly as he did ask it. It gives me the opportunity to review my decision, because we\u2019re going quite well on time and I\u2019m feeling generous.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000186\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022eaf79431-1033-44f1-a633-22633da52c0d\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u002241b3394a629140beb8fc0b4e9e62d8a6\u0022\u003EHon David Bennett\u003C/span\u003E: Will the Overseas Investment Amendment Bill make any changes to the tests that were applied to determine the Creswell NZ application?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000187\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002279db8b64-1f9b-4416-9b81-a12963db9cbf\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u00220e5e2ddf30284606b49725cb96f4e138\u0022\u003ESPEAKER\u003C/span\u003E: Sorry\u2014as I ruled earlier\u2014unlike, as was indicated to me, it being a question of advice, there was no suggestion of advice in there. It was a factual question around a bill for which the Minister has no responsibility, and I reiterate my decision to rule it out. Any further supplementaries, Mr Bennett?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000188\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022eaf79431-1033-44f1-a633-22633da52c0d\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022b86da9d3c66c4582bbfb3b66ae5b47aa\u0022\u003EHon David Bennett\u003C/span\u003E: Did we get an extra supp or\u2014\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000189\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002279db8b64-1f9b-4416-9b81-a12963db9cbf\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u002240a33d5cadb340998a51abe03c48c5e4\u0022\u003ESPEAKER\u003C/span\u003E: Well, you\u2019re not getting that one. Having it again doesn\u2019t count, but you\u2019re not getting an extra one for getting it wrong.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000190\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022eaf79431-1033-44f1-a633-22633da52c0d\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022694269feaeea4ba5a177598ae8707d6b\u0022\u003EHon David Bennett\u003C/span\u003E: No, no\u2014for the others.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000191\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002279db8b64-1f9b-4416-9b81-a12963db9cbf\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022f1dc80165bf8492d9535f790a664c66c\u0022\u003ESPEAKER\u003C/span\u003E: Right.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000192\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsSubjectHeading\u0022 id=\u0022b894e3ef19d84befb877e91662939df2\u0022\u003ELocal Government\u2014Auckland Council\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u0022943fd636-21ec-4442-9a72-68c49464776f\u0022 data-id=\u002239ddde51455c4692a4e7fd5d0360d00e\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000193\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022943fd636-21ec-4442-9a72-68c49464776f\u0022\u003E12. \u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u002239ddde51455c4692a4e7fd5d0360d00e\u0022\u003EDENISE LEE (National\u2014Maungakiekie)\u003C/span\u003E to the Minister of Local Government: Is she satisfied with the current Local Government Official Information and Meetings Act 1987?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u00220e7e8da2-a6a1-41bb-aeb0-a49be255a293\u0022 data-id=\u00223dce6950b975492ea593950c66e026bd\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000194\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00220e7e8da2-a6a1-41bb-aeb0-a49be255a293\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u00223dce6950b975492ea593950c66e026bd\u0022\u003EHon NANAIA MAHUTA (Minister of Local Government):\u003C/span\u003E It\u2019s not a matter of whether or not I\u2019m satisfied; the Act sets out the basis on which the availability of local government information can be accessed by the public. While I\u2019m aware some issues arise from time to time, there is a process for councils to address concerns internally or through the Office of the Ombudsmen.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000195\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022943fd636-21ec-4442-9a72-68c49464776f\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u002201f197ffd16d455d8a21a1e4232aaa1e\u0022\u003EDenise Lee\u003C/span\u003E: Do the current tensions at Auckland Council, with nine councillors signing a letter of complaint to the mayor for the withholding of official information, not highlight that there is an urgent need for reform of the Local Government Official Information and Meetings Act (LGOIMA) 1987?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000196\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00220e7e8da2-a6a1-41bb-aeb0-a49be255a293\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u00226709b10675a9488d964d50f1cb8cb38a\u0022\u003EHon NANAIA MAHUTA\u003C/span\u003E: I expect local authorities to meet their obligations under core legislation such as LGOIMA and the Local Government Act 2002. Local authorities are required to release requested information unless they consider there is a good reason for not doing so in accordance with the grounds specified in the LGOIMA. If a person is not satisfied with the outcome, they can seek a review\u2014\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000197\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022943fd636-21ec-4442-9a72-68c49464776f\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u00221954453f511c4ff6b3b91c6ad8e94f7e\u0022\u003EDenise Lee\u003C/span\u003E: I raise a point of order, Mr Speaker. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000198\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002279db8b64-1f9b-4416-9b81-a12963db9cbf\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022173bc6944c984cd082bcd4fdb1583ef8\u0022\u003ESPEAKER\u003C/span\u003E: The member can\u2019t\u2014the member\u2019s answering.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000199\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00220e7e8da2-a6a1-41bb-aeb0-a49be255a293\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u002233ef45f852d24507b392091545a872f1\u0022\u003EHon NANAIA MAHUTA\u003C/span\u003E: \u2014through the Ombudsman, and this is the case in the matter that that member\u2019s referring to.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000200\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002279db8b64-1f9b-4416-9b81-a12963db9cbf\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022f61dc763250e47e8a4490d35221b0859\u0022\u003ESPEAKER\u003C/span\u003E: All right. A point of order, Denise Lee.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000201\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022943fd636-21ec-4442-9a72-68c49464776f\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u00229dab01439eaa44e39855bb085fe794bd\u0022\u003EDenise Lee\u003C/span\u003E: The Minister was not answering my question in regards to: do the current tensions not highlight an urgent need for a review of the LGOIMA?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000202\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002279db8b64-1f9b-4416-9b81-a12963db9cbf\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022dc62b191aef2492aa98ad1b411fe8ee6\u0022\u003ESPEAKER\u003C/span\u003E: Well, I took from the Minister\u2019s answer that, in fact, that\u2019s exactly what she was saying\u2014that it did not.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000203\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022943fd636-21ec-4442-9a72-68c49464776f\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022f4e232c02e2e405eb6a9ea44b34a477c\u0022\u003EDenise Lee\u003C/span\u003E: Supplementary.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000204\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002279db8b64-1f9b-4416-9b81-a12963db9cbf\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022cd968da9249547719437638bdda4a186\u0022\u003ESPEAKER\u003C/span\u003E: No, the member\u2019s had all her supplementaries.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000205\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002279db8b64-1f9b-4416-9b81-a12963db9cbf\u0022\u003E\u003Cbr\u003E\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n    \u003C/div\u003E\n    \u003Cdiv class=\u0022HpsHansard\u0022\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000206\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsProceedingHeading\u0022 id=\u0022184363cddf8a43df878310bf99fae1db\u0022\u003EUrgent Debates Declined\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000207\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsSubjectHeading\u0022 id=\u0022558f500f67444a8c8c850d49001418f3\u0022\u003ECounties Manukau District Health Board\u2014Board Appointments and Removals\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u002279db8b64-1f9b-4416-9b81-a12963db9cbf\u0022 data-id=\u0022c8c30f1ba9f34e778144326a369c9afa\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000208\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002279db8b64-1f9b-4416-9b81-a12963db9cbf\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u0022c8c30f1ba9f34e778144326a369c9afa\u0022\u003ESPEAKER\u003C/span\u003E: I have received a letter from Jami-Lee Ross seeking to debate under Standing Order 389 the actions of the Minister of Health in relation to the appointment and removal of members of the Counties Manukau District Health Board. This is a case of particular recent occurrence\u2014in fact, it\u2019s a particular case of recent occurrence that involves ministerial responsibility. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000209\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002279db8b64-1f9b-4416-9b81-a12963db9cbf\u0022\u003EUrgent debates are held on matters that require the immediate attention of the House. On the information presented to me, I am not persuaded that the matter requires the urgent attention of the House. A better opportunity to examine it will arise in the Health Committee\u2019s Estimates hearing for Vote Health, which is being held tomorrow, and in the subsequent Estimates debate. The application is, therefore, declined.\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=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000210\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsSubjectHeading\u0022 id=\u00228142ad82b6844a11b776abbf2c837c0c\u0022\u003ELand Transport Management (Regional Fuel Tax) Amendment Bill\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000211\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsSubproceedingHeading\u0022 id=\u0022907e3d3adcdb474d8baf01851a8bfbb0\u0022\u003EIn Committee\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000212\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsSubproceedingHeading\u0022 id=\u00224fbba1894ebe4750b8ecb6ae42a741ab\u0022\u003EPart 1  Amendment to Land Transport Management Act 2003\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u0022977cccaf-581d-4f48-924e-32bf6c54a93d\u0022 data-id=\u0022b0f70a5734f6454f8e0a22ef383b51de\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000213\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022977cccaf-581d-4f48-924e-32bf6c54a93d\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u0022b0f70a5734f6454f8e0a22ef383b51de\u0022\u003ECHAIRPERSON (Hon Anne Tolley)\u003C/span\u003E: The debate on this part includes the schedule.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u0022163d0b68-eb0e-4094-9bed-99e184f063e1\u0022 data-id=\u0022ac46fd00bec843c2b181a2cc35797555\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000214\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022163d0b68-eb0e-4094-9bed-99e184f063e1\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u0022ac46fd00bec843c2b181a2cc35797555\u0022\u003EJAMI-LEE ROSS (National\u2014Botany):\u003C/span\u003E Madam Chair, thank you for the opportunity to speak on the bill in Part 1. Can I highlight at the outset that this side of the committee will be taking a lot of opportunity\u2014if granted by you, of course, Madam Chair\u2014to examine this bill. The reason why I want to highlight at the outset that we\u2019ll be taking a lot of opportunity is because I think it needs to be put on record that this bill has not been through a particularly normal or lengthy parliamentary select committee process. This bill is a bill which would give a council the power of taxation and it also is a bill that gives the Minister some very considerable powers to put in place greater taxes than were otherwise expected or debated earlier last year. This bill gives the Minister quite a lot of powers in that regard and needs to be examined quite closely.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000215\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022163d0b68-eb0e-4094-9bed-99e184f063e1\u0022\u003EI think it\u2019s also important to highlight that when this bill went through the select committee process it was a truncated process, the select committee had a shortened report-back time, the select committee was in quite a hurry, and because of that shortened report-back time it did not have the opportunity fully to examine issues that it otherwise would. The reason why we\u2019re in this position where we have had a bill which has had a shortened report-back time and has not had the normal, thorough select committee scrutiny is because this Government wants to put in place a regional fuel tax by 1 July.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000216\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022163d0b68-eb0e-4094-9bed-99e184f063e1\u0022\u003EAnother reason why I think this House needs to examine this bill very closely is because the regulation-making powers in the bill are extensive. And the reason why it needs thorough examination is because, in many of the comments that the Minister Phil Twyford has made publicly and leading to last year\u2019s election and leading up to the introduction of this bill, the Minister has made comments which make it sound as though this bill is only limited to Auckland and that make it sound as though this bill limits and restricts regional fuel taxes to 10c a litre.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000217\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022163d0b68-eb0e-4094-9bed-99e184f063e1\u0022\u003EIn fact, the regulation-making powers in this particular bill give extensive opportunity for the Minister to both have regional fuel taxes outside of Auckland\u2014and I do note that much of the commentary and much of the explanatory note around the bill says it\u2019s only an Auckland issue. But, in fact, the bill does allow regional fuel taxes on a nationwide basis, and it\u2019s only buried within the bill as their one line restricting it to Auckland\u2014but only initially. In future years, there\u2019s the opportunity for regional fuel taxes around the country. This isn\u2019t an Auckland regional fuel tax bill; it\u2019s a nationwide fuel tax bill. And this bill, whilst having been sold by the Minister as solving an Auckland issue is actually a detailed \u201CHow this can be applied across the whole country?\u201D\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000218\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022163d0b68-eb0e-4094-9bed-99e184f063e1\u0022\u003EI also think it\u2019s important to note that whilst this bill says regional fuel taxes would only be 10c a litre, the Minister, through Order in Council, could put in place regional fuel taxes at any point he wants. There is no legislative restriction in this bill to restrict it to 10c a litre, because by Order in Council, using a \u201CHenry VIII\u201D clause, the Minister can extend regional fuel taxes to 12c, 15c, or 20c a litre by the stroke of a pen. That would not take place with normal parliamentary scrutiny. Taxation-making powers through Order in Council\u2014granted, if this bill is passed\u2014are extensive. And that means the committee should not just have a perfunctory consideration of this bill; it should, in fact, go through in much detail how this bill would operate. My side of the committee have got some Supplementary Order Papers\u2014and more will be coming\u2014because we are so aggrieved by the way in which this bill is written that we\u2019re going to be submitting a number of Supplementary Order Papers which attempt to mitigate the great damage that this bill would have.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000219\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022163d0b68-eb0e-4094-9bed-99e184f063e1\u0022\u003ERegional fuel taxes are one way in which transport infrastructure could be funded, but we also have not had an extensive opportunity\u2014also because the Minister struggles to answer questions in the House\u2014to consider alternative mechanisms for funding transport infrastructure. The Minister in the chair, right here, at the first opportunity to tax Aucklanders and put in place a bill that would tax the rest of the country through regional fuel taxes, has not given thorough consideration to the alternatives out there. He\u2019s confirmed in the House that he hasn\u2019t actually thoroughly considered whether the Auckland Council could find the savings that his former colleague, now the Mayor of Auckland, promised he would have. He\u2019s not giving consideration to whether the desires for light rail and the desires for many transport projects that that side of the House wants are actually going to bring\u2014[Time expired]\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u00225e6b7aaa-8157-4d5e-9940-1bdbcd61ae95\u0022 data-id=\u0022db71039f963e46cfab975075021302fa\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000220\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00225e6b7aaa-8157-4d5e-9940-1bdbcd61ae95\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u0022db71039f963e46cfab975075021302fa\u0022\u003EALASTAIR SCOTT (National\u2014Wairarapa):\u003C/span\u003E Thank you for the opportunity to speak at the committee stage on this bill. It\u2019s not clear\u2014to me, at least\u2014the purpose of the bill: what this Government is trying to achieve by introducing this regional tax bill. Is it just to reduce and tax those who use fuel? Is it to reduce congestion on Auckland\u2019s roads? Is it to reduce the congestion that exists in other cities, because we\u2019ve already heard that this will be rolled out into regions? Is it to incentivise electric vehicles? Is it to incentivise those people who use CNG or LPG in their vehicles? As we know, CNG and LPG are exempt from this fuel tax, and, of course, electric vehicles simply don\u2019t use carbon-based fuel and so, therefore, are also exempt.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000221\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00225e6b7aaa-8157-4d5e-9940-1bdbcd61ae95\u0022\u003EAnd so then the question arises: how do we capture and how do we tax or how do we ensure that those users of electric vehicles and those users of CNG and LPG vehicles do get charged for their use of the roading network? If that\u2019s the purpose of the tax\u2014because, as I say, it\u2019s unclear exactly what the mission statement is, what the purpose is of this tax other than to simply collect tax, to simply tax those who are using fuel. If that is the case, why tax them at the point of distribution? Why not, as submitters submitted, tax them as it leaves Marsden Point? Why not tax it at one spot for all the fuel that leaves Marsden Point? That way all the road users will be\u2014\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000222\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022f7fc7ac3-5ce1-43ca-8cd6-dbb0941bf3ae\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022854fca0c791c448e8ffe7d015c529ef0\u0022\u003EDr Duncan Webb\u003C/span\u003E: Paying for Auckland\u2019s roads.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000223\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00225e6b7aaa-8157-4d5e-9940-1bdbcd61ae95\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u00229d4d45e31a7f4100a1ca3e5569bb9dbe\u0022\u003EALASTAIR SCOTT\u003C/span\u003E: But that\u2019s my purpose. The member asked the question, and that\u2019s the question: what is the purpose? So if it is to tax fuel, then just tax fuel and put it at the point of source. If it is only to tax Auckland road-users\u2014and that might be the purpose\u2014why allow other regions, at a future date, in January 2021 I think it is, to introduce the tax if it is just to deal with Auckland congestion and Auckland roading?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000224\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00225e6b7aaa-8157-4d5e-9940-1bdbcd61ae95\u0022\u003EThen, if it is to do with Auckland congestion and Auckland roading, why not take on a congestion charge? It\u2019s a much more sensible, much more efficient, and much more effective use, and it\u2019s less costly and much more targeted, because, of course, those who pay the congestion tax at the higher rate would be those who are using it at a peak time and so, therefore, should be charged more. So why has the Government not thought of a congestion tax? They haven\u2019t. They are too lazy. They haven\u2019t given any intellectual power to the debate around a congestion tax. Instead, they\u2019ve gone after the regions. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000225\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00225e6b7aaa-8157-4d5e-9940-1bdbcd61ae95\u0022\u003EI represent the large electorate of the Wairarapa. Those people, the people of the Wairarapa and other regions, will be paying a regional tax because, believe me, Wellington Regional Council will introduce this tax. They will be paying a road tax for the purposes of Wellington CBD, Wellington light rail equivalent through to the airport. So the guys in Pongaroa who have to drive more kilometres to take their kids to school, more kilometres to take their kids to the doctor, more kilometres to drive to the supermarket, and more kilometres to go to their workplace\u2014for example, the cattle-yards or sheep-yards\u2014will be paying the regional fuel tax for the purposes of the CBD of Wellington, and that is just unfair. That is just unfair.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000226\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00225e6b7aaa-8157-4d5e-9940-1bdbcd61ae95\u0022\u003EThe other people that this tax is burdensome on are those who can least afford it. That side say they support those who can least afford, but people who are at the lower end of the socio-economic ladder have less efficient cars. They don\u2019t have electric vehicles (EVs). Those people who do not have so much money in their pockets, those people who are driving old cars and who live in cheaper parts of town, further away from their workplace\u2014and I\u2019m not talking just about the city-dwellers; I\u2019m talking about those who live outside of Masterton, several kilometres outside of Masterton\u2014will have to travel a long way to get to their place of work, which might be a shearing shed 25 or 35 kilometres up the road. They are driving in vehicles, and I\u2019ll tell you what: they\u2019re not EVs and they\u2019re not hybrids and they\u2019re not expensive and they\u2019re not fuel-efficient. They will be paying this fuel tax, and for what? Are they going to see better roads on their way to and from work, on their way to and from the supermarket? They are not.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000227\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00225e6b7aaa-8157-4d5e-9940-1bdbcd61ae95\u0022\u003EIf the Government had spent 10 seconds thinking about it\u2014have they considered, instead of a regional tax, talking about a district tax? Has there been any thought about a district council being able to collect this tax? We know, and particularly in the Wairarapa, it is low-density populations with many, many kilometres per capita which need extra roadworks, basically. There\u2019s a huge amount of mileage that is required in low-density, large electorate populations. So has the Government thought about dedicating this tax\u2014and it will be coming to the Wellington region\u2014to the local councils so that the local council can determine which roads need the most repair? So there\u2019s a lot of unfairness in this bill. There\u2019s a lot of inequity in this bill. There\u2019s little thought that has gone into this bill.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000228\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00225e6b7aaa-8157-4d5e-9940-1bdbcd61ae95\u0022\u003EThere are other issues that\u2014well, I\u2019ll give you another example. In the Wairarapa, we have a wave of wood\u2014they call it the \u201Cwave of wood\u201D\u2014that is about to be harvested. Now, the fuel tax will not be applied to those operators on the farm, just as fuel excise does not apply to on-farm places of business. So we\u2019re going to have a lot of fuel burnt in-forest, which will be exempt, of course, but then the logging trucks will be punching away through these on the way to the ports, on the way to Napier Port or on the way to the port of Wellington, and little consideration for those district councils, and particularly the district ratepayers who end up footing the bill for these huge vehicles. Of course, forestry is a fantastic industry, but we need to think about who is going to pay for what as far as road repairs. So we\u2019re going to have a situation where logs are harvested, trucks are brought across these gravel roads, ripped up, and they will only pay road-user charges, only use road-user charges.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000229\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00225e6b7aaa-8157-4d5e-9940-1bdbcd61ae95\u0022\u003ESo there\u2019s a lot of inequities in this bill, but I do ask the Government to think about those people, particularly in the Wellington region, who will be asked to pay for this fuel tax and who can least afford it\u2014those who are travelling long distances to get to work, get to school, get to the football field, or get to rugby practice. And I also ask\u2014the fact that not only the distance but the quality of vehicle is not as good as the townies who can walk to work, who can cycle to work far more easily. And I do ask for the Government to really think about what they are trying to achieve by putting this legislation through. Is it to dissuade people from using fuel or is it simply to raise tax for some black hole to fund the light rail system from Auckland CBD through to the airport? If that\u2019s the case, well, my point is, target it. Target the tax to incentivise or disincentivise the behaviour that the Government is wishing to stimulate or to deter, but don\u2019t just blanket swab a regional fuel tax across all people in all regions, in all places, for all conditions, because that type of attitude, that type of tax, is simply unfair.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u0022098b8334-57f8-4062-bac6-bfbc3474e88e\u0022 data-id=\u0022d84b6bd4adf54d8e86ea4b86ea295876\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000230\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022098b8334-57f8-4062-bac6-bfbc3474e88e\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u0022d84b6bd4adf54d8e86ea4b86ea295876\u0022\u003EMICHAEL WOOD (Labour\u2014Mt Roskill):\u003C/span\u003E Thank you, Madam Chair. I want to begin my comments, in what I think will be a reasonably brief call, by thanking the National Party for its support in the second reading of this bill. That was a little bit surprising, but it was very gratifying to see that perhaps over the select committee process we\u2019d built up some cross-partisan support. However, what we have learnt in the course of this debate is that the National Party are very good at changing their minds in respect of this issue. I do just want to acknowledge the voluminous petition for billions of dollars\u2019 worth of roads that was tabled in this House earlier on today, yet here we have the National Party opposing any revenue-raising measure to actually get on and build the transport networks that our cities and our regions may need.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000231\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022098b8334-57f8-4062-bac6-bfbc3474e88e\u0022\u003EI also want to note the calls we\u2019ve heard and some of the speeches so far about consideration of other means to raise revenue to support our transport systems. Of course, that\u2019s something that the previous Government had nine years to consider and simply didn\u2019t do the work on. What they did was raise fuel tax by 17c over six years. So, once again, we have a pretty significant shift of position.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000232\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022098b8334-57f8-4062-bac6-bfbc3474e88e\u0022\u003EI want to come to a couple of the specific provisions that came out of the Finance and Expenditure Committee, and might I note it was a very pleasing select committee process, in spite of some of the comments we heard earlier from the member from Botany. We, in fact, received 520 submissions from people, so the suggestion that it was a truncated process, without ability for people to input, simply does not bear scrutiny.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000233\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022098b8334-57f8-4062-bac6-bfbc3474e88e\u0022\u003EOne of the suggestions we heard is, \u201CWhy don\u2019t we just slap on a tax at Marsden?\u201D Curiously, we heard that from the member for Wairarapa, who seems to entirely miss the point of the bill\u2014that at this point it is about regions such as Auckland funding their own infrastructure. If that member wants to go back to Wairarapa and argue that his constituents should fund Auckland\u2019s transport needs, then I invite him to do so. But, of course, we haven\u2019t heard that from him.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000234\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022098b8334-57f8-4062-bac6-bfbc3474e88e\u0022\u003EWhat he\u2019ll be very, very pleased to hear indeed\u2014and I want to just note his concern about the prospect of possibly the Wellington region maybe some years in the future, after 2020, considering whether it might want to have a regional fuel tax to fund its transport needs. I want to note new section 65D, inserted by clause 5 of the bill, which was a change made at select committee which does enable regions to make exclusions if it is inappropriate for a part of a region to pay the regional fuel tax when the main benefit is going to occur in another part of the region. That was a request which specifically came through from the Auckland Council on the select committee process and could be applied, for example, in that region to somewhere like Great Barrier Island. So, hopefully, that gives that member some comfort.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000235\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022098b8334-57f8-4062-bac6-bfbc3474e88e\u0022\u003EI also want to reflect on the somewhat grandiose statements made by Jami-Lee Ross earlier on in the debate, about the Minister\u2019s ability to review the rate of the regional fuel tax. This is addressed in new section 65ZD, inserted by clause 5, of the reported-back bill from the Finance and Expenditure Committee, in which the select committee has included provisions in the bill which will make sure that there are reasons provided for any changes to the rate of regional fuel tax. Of course, what Mr Jami-Lee Ross forgets to mention is that any such change has to come back to this very House, just as changes to other rates of excise tax have to come back to this House. I haven\u2019t noticed Mr Ross or any of his other colleagues opposing changes to general rates of fuel excise tax, which are made by Order in Council in exactly the same way, subject to confirmation by the House.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000236\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022098b8334-57f8-4062-bac6-bfbc3474e88e\u0022\u003EThe previous speaker, Alastair Scott, asked \u201CWhat does this bill achieve?\u201D and sort of made the suggestion that it throws money into a pot somewhere, never to be seen again. Of course that is absolutely nonsense, because what this bill very specifically does achieve\u2014and further changes were made at select committee to new section 65E, inserted by clause 5\u2014is it achieves the transport objectives of particular regions. The particular region that is applying for the regional fuel tax has to put forward a very specific proposal, down to the level of particular projects and the benefits that those projects will achieve for the transport needs of that region. And that, in fact, has been strengthened at select committee in new section 65E, and really, that\u2019s the nub of this bill. It\u2019s about recognising that Auckland has a very specific set of transport needs after nine years of utter neglect and increasing gridlock on the roads of our city. Finally, thank goodness, we have a Government with a plan to fix that and with the gumption to front up and to fund it as well, and that is what this very good bill does. Thank you, Madam Chair.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u002203fd985b-4fb8-4111-ba38-5033a254d962\u0022 data-id=\u0022ed84eb8920e34160b80a913b0d9ae168\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000237\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002203fd985b-4fb8-4111-ba38-5033a254d962\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u0022ed84eb8920e34160b80a913b0d9ae168\u0022\u003EBRETT HUDSON (National):\u003C/span\u003E Thank you, Madam Chair. There are a couple of points I want to raise on the bill. I\u2019ll just answer a couple of points that Michael Wood, the member who\u2019s just resumed his seat, made. One of the points he said was that, for nine years, the National Government hadn\u2019t concerned itself with funding all of the transport initiatives that it wanted, and did, in fact, put in place. Well, actually, it was the National-led Government that came up with genuinely innovative solutions for funding infrastructure projects that didn\u2019t require taxing hard-working New Zealanders more\u2014\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000238\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022f44431ef-b505-4e94-9f57-a60b0a569bf7\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022b14393fcd67a4e41b381ab026d5e8cdb\u0022\u003EHon Shane Jones\u003C/span\u003E: Like what? Name one.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000239\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002203fd985b-4fb8-4111-ba38-5033a254d962\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u002277629f2f6873426b8e9130c40a2930c6\u0022\u003EBRETT HUDSON\u003C/span\u003E: Such as unlocking the potential of State assets to reutilise the cash in infrastructure projects such as our roading projects. I\u2019d also remind the members opposite that those mixed-ownership - model assets have returned more in dividends since they\u2019ve been mixed ownership, with lower State ownership, than they did before. Not only has it freed up cash for infrastructure investments\u2014hospitals, schools, and, particularly, roading and other transport\u2014it\u2019s actually returned better dividends to the Government at the same time. Perhaps if Mr Wood had more commercial acumen, he would have realised that was a far better option for funding our needs than worrying about taxing hard-working New Zealanders more, hitting them in their back pockets\u2014particularly the people in his electorate and in South Auckland, who will get hurt harder by this because of the regressive nature of a regional fuel tax.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000240\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002203fd985b-4fb8-4111-ba38-5033a254d962\u0022\u003EI want to talk to a couple of areas of the bill, and the applicable clauses. The first one follows on from a very articulate contribution from my colleague Mr Scott. All of the narrative we\u2019ve heard around this bill and the need for it has talked about freeing up funding for Auckland transport projects, to break congestion, to unlock the potential in Auckland, and yet, for some reason, the Minister has decided that cars that are more likely to be owned by wealthy people should be exempt\u2014those are electric vehicles.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000241\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002203fd985b-4fb8-4111-ba38-5033a254d962\u0022\u003EThere\u2019s a fuel tax if you\u2019re using petrol or diesel, but there\u2019s no charge on a kilowatt of electricity. If you happen to own a Tesla or, maybe a little bit cheaper, a Leaf or a BMW i3, if you are wealthy enough to own an electric car, you get a free run in Auckland\u2014because I\u2019m using the definition of \u201Cfuel\u201D here; because, under the definition of \u201Cfuel\u201D, which references the Local Government Act, of course a kilowatt of electricity is not included. It\u2019s not excluded either, explicitly, but it certainly isn\u2019t included. So, by using that definition, the Government has chosen to exclude electric vehicles.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000242\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002203fd985b-4fb8-4111-ba38-5033a254d962\u0022\u003EElectric vehicles are going to cause the same amount of congestion on the road as other vehicles, as other cars. But, no, they get a free ride under the Minister\u2019s plans, because, I don\u2019t know, perhaps they just want to help the wealthy out. I\u2019m not quite sure. But if we go to the intent that the Government has articulated, about why we even have this measure, they\u2019ve excluded vehicles which should be captured. They are vehicles traversing the current roading system in Auckland and, therefore, contributing to the congestion which the Minister seems to want to address.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000243\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002203fd985b-4fb8-4111-ba38-5033a254d962\u0022\u003EThe other part I\u2019d like to just touch on, which, hopefully, he might actually want to comment on, is the element which, in the commentary, is referred to as \u201Cprice spreading\u201D and which the Finance and Expenditure Committee recommended a clause change to allow monitoring of. I\u2019m very interested to know how the Minister thinks that will, in practice, help to prevent what has been termed price spreading. If he is thinking, for instance, that it is clause 65ZC, \u201COffences and penalties\u201D, particularly paragraphs (e) and (f) under subclause (1), which talk about failing to pay regional fuel tax in accordance or evading the payment, I\u2019d actually suggest that perhaps the Minister hasn\u2019t got the mechanics of how what has been termed \u201Cprice spreading\u201D will actually work.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000244\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002203fd985b-4fb8-4111-ba38-5033a254d962\u0022\u003EHaving spoken to some fuel companies, and I hope he did also, it\u2019s not actually going to be an intentional act by a fuel company to take the tax and have it paid somewhere else. What is likely to happen is competitive forces in the Auckland market\u2014because it\u2019s the first market to get these\u2014are going to see discounting take place after the tax has been applied in the first place at the pump, which will compete the price down. Now, that means the fuel companies will get a lower return from each litre of fuel in Auckland and, in order to make up their overall margins\u2014because the cost of product will have gone up\u2014they will end up charging more in some other part of New Zealand. That\u2019s not refusing to pay the fuel tax, and it\u2019s not evading the fuel tax; it is simply adjusting to competitive pressures. So, Minister, perhaps you might like to tell us how your monitoring regime is actually going to stop that practice. Thank you.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u0022f96cdca1-b63c-4602-b2b3-276f58ebb518\u0022 data-id=\u0022860a3c251f30434285348d58f2acda6f\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000245\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022f96cdca1-b63c-4602-b2b3-276f58ebb518\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u0022860a3c251f30434285348d58f2acda6f\u0022\u003ECHRIS PENK (National\u2014Helensville):\u003C/span\u003E Thank you, Madam Chair\u2014a pleasure to speak to the Land Transport Management (Regional Fuel Tax) Amendment Bill. I say it\u2019s a pleasure, but, in fact, it\u2019s with mixed emotions, as you will soon see. It was, famously, the character King Lear, in the play of the same name\u2014\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000246\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022f44431ef-b505-4e94-9f57-a60b0a569bf7\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u00220dd9ea29032442879ae64545d23c321b\u0022\u003EHon Shane Jones\u003C/span\u003E: Crocodile tears\u2014crocodile, crocodile!\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000247\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022f96cdca1-b63c-4602-b2b3-276f58ebb518\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022b110d443abf64de9bf07bd18a9ebff87\u0022\u003ECHRIS PENK\u003C/span\u003E: The rebuke was given to his errant daughter, I think Cordelia, but Mr Shane Jones will no doubt know, \u201CNothing will come of nothing\u201D. If only that were the case in regards to this bill, that would be so much better than the present situation, because nothing is going to come from something in this bill. Specifically, no good outcomes will come directly as a result of this bill, but something is being introduced by it\u2014namely, extra taxes at the petrol pumps of Aucklanders. So we\u2019ve got a cost-benefit analysis that results in a finding, by me here today, that there is all cost and no benefit\u2014no tangible benefit, no concrete benefit, if you\u2019ll excuse the pun, almost, in the case of roads. Aucklanders, therefore, as I say\u2014and certainly the rest of the country\u2014will be getting something for nothing, but not in a good way.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000248\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022f96cdca1-b63c-4602-b2b3-276f58ebb518\u0022\u003EMadam Chair, I want to seek your indulgence to speak about the effect of this bill on a particular electorate, and I\u2019ll choose one at random\u2014Helensville. It seems to me that some of the themes that have been mentioned by my colleagues in relation to the unfairness of the mechanism whereby, in effect, as a result presumably of unintended consequences of the bill, taxpayers and road users or petrol pump payments throughout the country will be used to benefit infrastructure in Auckland. Well, if only that were so within all the boundaries of Auckland Council, then the good people of the Helensville electorate might be somewhat happier than they are now about this bill, because there\u2019s nothing specific in this bill to guarantee that certain works will be done in various parts of Auckland. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000249\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022f96cdca1-b63c-4602-b2b3-276f58ebb518\u0022\u003ENow, I do acknowledge the points made by Mr Michael Wood in his discussion of the bill in relation to \u201CProviding the ability to exclude parts of a region\u201D\u2014I quote from the commentary on the bill. But this much is unclear in terms of its application, and certainly what the implications would be going forward, because there is no guarantee that such a proposal would be met favourably under this bill. So in the example of the Helensville electorate, not only would the rural parts of that electorate, which I remind the House, for any who might have known but have forgotten, or perhaps indeed not known at all, are rural but none the less within the Auckland Council jurisdiction, and therefore paying, under the Auckland region, these regional fuel taxes\u2014there is no guarantee that they will be gaining anything concrete in terms of improvements to their roading network, whether that\u2019s State highways or local roads or, indeed, the specific projects that the current Government has recently announced.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000250\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022f96cdca1-b63c-4602-b2b3-276f58ebb518\u0022\u003ESo, for example, light rail. Well, there\u2019s a certain amount that can be said in favour, and also against, the proposal of light rail to the north-west of Auckland, but one thing that can very definitely be said against it, as proposed by the current Government, is that it\u2019s not the only light rail project that\u2019s been proposed. It seems to me, unfortunately, obvious that if history is any guide, the light rail project in the north-west of Auckland will likely take a back seat on the trains that will travel on this hypothetical light rail transport mechanism to the light rail projects elsewhere in the city\u2014for example, the one that begins in the Prime Minister\u2019s own electorate. There are very cynical people, who have every right to be cynical about the likelihood of that happening any time soon. We note that there are no time frames for such a project, such a benefit, in that electorate, despite numerous positive noises having been made by various members of the now Government when campaigning in the electorate, including, but not limited to, the leader of the New Zealand First Party.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000251\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022f96cdca1-b63c-4602-b2b3-276f58ebb518\u0022\u003EThere\u2019s no guarantee that these things will happen any time soon or, indeed, at all, given failures to deliver by this Government elsewhere, as characterised not by broken promises so much as promises that are not yet fulfilled. Well, the promises that will not yet be fulfilled under this bill seem, to me, pretty clear. The promise only is that you\u2019ll have to pay more, but you\u2019ll get nothing out of it concrete any time soon\u2014that\u2019s the message in relation to this bill from the good people of Helensville.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u00227940e9f2-9cea-43d5-8f16-3b470e34f47f\u0022 data-id=\u002261d40b4cea3c444bb7f9f2eaa92c2479\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000252\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00227940e9f2-9cea-43d5-8f16-3b470e34f47f\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u002261d40b4cea3c444bb7f9f2eaa92c2479\u0022\u003EMATT KING (National\u2014Northland):\u003C/span\u003E It\u2019s a pleasure to speak on the Land Transport Management (Regional Fuel Tax) Amendment Bill. We oppose it strongly because they don\u2019t work. Yet another tax by this Government\u2014let\u2019s be honest: this Government loves tax, and they love taxing us. Look out: there\u2019re more coming\u2014rest assured, there\u2019s more coming.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000253\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00227940e9f2-9cea-43d5-8f16-3b470e34f47f\u0022\u003E\u201CNo taxes.\u201D, they said, but they\u2019ve given us four. It\u2019s available only in the Auckland region\u2014until January 2021, and then all hell breaks loose: Hamilton, Waikato, Tauranga, Wellington, and Christchurch\u2014even Northland might want one. Local Government New Zealand chair Dave Cull wants it available to all councils. Can you imagine any council not wanting one? And it\u2019s going to be subject to GST\u2014tax on tax. They can review the regional fuel tax at any time. Now, that\u2019s scary.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000254\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00227940e9f2-9cea-43d5-8f16-3b470e34f47f\u0022\u003EThere were 520 submissions from interested groups and individuals at the Finance and Expenditure Committee, and 89 percent were opposed. Public opinion is dead against this form of taxation, and I\u2019ll quote: A One News Colmar Brunton poll in May: 58 percent opposed; 36 percent in favour. In May, Auckland Council\u2019s final consultation on the draft proposal: 51 percent opposed; 42 percent in support. Auckland Council Facebook poll: 74 percent against\u2014\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000255\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u002236dc8b0fbc1149ccb65036f9fcf921a5\u0022\u003EHon Member\u003C/span\u003E: How many? \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000256\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00227940e9f2-9cea-43d5-8f16-3b470e34f47f\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u00220e12c3c247dd45a28478f58caf6b14ed\u0022\u003EMATT KING\u003C/span\u003E: \u201474 percent against, 26 percent in favour, and 10,600 people voted in it\u2014that\u2019s a fair few. In April, the 10-year budget plan consultation: 48 percent opposed and 46 percent for, and 21,000 people voted in that one. In the April Colmar Brunton poll for Auckland Council the poll shows that 52 percent supported it and 43 percent opposed it, but that was prior to the announcement. When they announced the actual fuel tax, opposition rose to 58 percent.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000257\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00227940e9f2-9cea-43d5-8f16-3b470e34f47f\u0022\u003ESo this bill imposes steep costs on New Zealanders, especially in Auckland. It is an unnecessary burden on motorists and taxpayers. The impact of this should not be understated. It will cost households hundreds of dollars a year in order to project this $150 million. Businesses will, simply, pass that cost on to consumers in higher prices. Anyone that runs businesses knows that. On this side of the Chamber, we\u2019ve run a few.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000258\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00227940e9f2-9cea-43d5-8f16-3b470e34f47f\u0022\u003ERegional fuel taxes must be viewed in the wider context of national fuel tax increases. This Government has proposed increases in fuel tax of 12c a litre, which, taken with this increase, means a 25.3 percent a litre tax increase for motorists and businesses. This will drive up living costs of many of those in the region, but the burden of this new tax will disproportionately fall upon the lower-income New Zealanders. It\u2019s a higher percentage of their income\u2014a larger percentage of their income. Lower-income families generally have older, more less fuel-efficient cars\u2014that\u2019s a fact\u2014and they usually live further away from the CBD, so they\u2019ll be affected more.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000259\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00227940e9f2-9cea-43d5-8f16-3b470e34f47f\u0022\u003EBut we\u2019ve got to talk about price spreading. Like it\u2019s occurred in the past, fuel companies will likely spread the cost across their national network. It happened in the 1990s, and it\u2019s the reason why we repealed this legislation in 2009. There is evidence that price spreading is already occurring in anticipation of this regional fuel tax. Fuel prices are rising in the South Island much faster than in Auckland. For example, fuel companies could charge 3c a litre nationally to cover a 10c per litre regional fuel tax in Auckland. Auckland Council only needs to find around 4 percent savings in its budget to fund this tax. That\u2019s not a difficult task.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000260\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00227940e9f2-9cea-43d5-8f16-3b470e34f47f\u0022\u003EWe also would not have gutted $5 billion out of the State highway budget, which could have been used to fund the likes of the East-West Link and the Mill Road corridor and my beloved Northland motorway. I\u2019m very sad to see that bite the dust. National remains opposed to the use of regional fuel taxes in any instance, so we oppose this. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u0022ed2d10c1-43b7-41d9-9f5c-0c313f70e625\u0022 data-id=\u00224577917098434e738978bc37818b861a\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000261\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022ed2d10c1-43b7-41d9-9f5c-0c313f70e625\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u00224577917098434e738978bc37818b861a\u0022\u003EHon NIKKI KAYE (National\u2014Auckland Central):\u003C/span\u003E Look, I am, with a heavy heart, here to speak on this piece of legislation. I\u2019ve been a member of Parliament for nine years, and one of the biggest things that people talk to me about\u2014this is all Aucklanders but also all New Zealanders\u2014is the cost of living. So let\u2019s be very clear to those people listening at home about what we are talking about with this bill: we are not only talking about the Government raising national fuel taxes but we are talking about, in this bill, an extra tax, in the first instance, for Aucklanders but then also, potentially, for other New Zealanders.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000262\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022ed2d10c1-43b7-41d9-9f5c-0c313f70e625\u0022\u003EWhen I get around New Zealand, it\u2019s amazing the number of people that are not aware that this piece of legislation could enable in the future other regions to come in. So there is a bit of \u201COh well, if it happens in Auckland, then I won\u2019t\u201D\u2014you know, \u201CNot in my back yard.\u201D But the reality is that people are struggling, and they are not going to be able to afford not only the cost in terms of fuel but also around the cost of food.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000263\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022ed2d10c1-43b7-41d9-9f5c-0c313f70e625\u0022\u003ESo it is ironic that we have a Labour Government promoting this piece of legislation and pushing it through the Parliament, because of the impact on some of our most disadvantaged New Zealanders. So we know that some people who don\u2019t have a choice are going to have to get in their car and travel and they are going to have that additional cost but also the cost in terms of food.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000264\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022ed2d10c1-43b7-41d9-9f5c-0c313f70e625\u0022\u003EI represent a range of very diverse areas in Auckland Central. Some people might think, \u201COh, well, it\u2019s just the wealthy areas of Ponsonby and Herne Bay.\u201D, but it\u2019s actually not. There are people who live in central Auckland, in the CBD, who are really struggling, and this means more cost for their families.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000265\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022ed2d10c1-43b7-41d9-9f5c-0c313f70e625\u0022\u003EBut, also, the reason I\u2019m up to speak is actually about a Supplementary Order Paper (SOP) that I have drafted, Supplementary Order Paper 27, as the local member for Waiheke and Great Barrier Island. Let me be really clear, as I\u2019ve been clear when I\u2019ve been on these isolated islands, that we oppose this regional fuel tax, but, actually, as well, our argument is we completely oppose it but I am pleading with the Minister of Transport\u2014and I\u2019d love him to answer some questions around this. When you have a community like Great Barrier\u2014and I got a message from the chair of the local board the other day: at the pump on Barrier, fuel has gone to $3.30. It\u2019s gone to $3.30 in the last couple of weeks, and then you have these taxes on top of it.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000266\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022ed2d10c1-43b7-41d9-9f5c-0c313f70e625\u0022\u003ENow, we know that the Auckland Council have put in a submission to potentially have Barrier exempted but, at the moment, the bill doesn\u2019t guarantee that; it requires the Minister\u2019s decision. My amendment will permanently exempt them because they do not benefit from a number of the transport projects. They\u2019re not going to benefit from the transport projects; they also have massively high fuel now, and so what you\u2019re saying to a community, what the Minister and the Government are saying to a small community of a thousand people whose average income is very low, is \u201CWe are going to add, potentially, thousands of dollars a year more on your cost of living when you live on an isolated island and you\u2019re not going to benefit from these projects.\u201D So that\u2019s the first point. I would ask the Minister to confirm whether he\u2019s going to support my SOP with regard to Great Barrier but also with regard to Waiheke Island.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000267\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022ed2d10c1-43b7-41d9-9f5c-0c313f70e625\u0022\u003ENow, again, there\u2019s been a bit of a discussion locally about this issue in terms of Waiheke. A lot of people have said to me that when the Auckland Council went out around the submissions in terms of proposals around fuel tax, they didn\u2019t understand exactly what the impact would be for Barrier. So I don\u2019t want to have some of the surveys that\u2019ve been quoted locally seen as the truth of the world, because the reality is that we also know that Waiheke may end up having additional costs in terms of their fuel because some of the hazardous substances rules may kick in for the island. But, at the moment, there is a price differential in terms of Auckland by, potentially, over 20c to 25c, so I am arguing, as a local MP for Waiheke and Great Barrier\u2014totally separate to us being absolutely opposed to these regional fuel taxes\u2014that the Minister supports and the Government supports our amendments around these isolated islands, because they have a different set of circumstances. They are not going to benefit from these transport projects. They live in an isolated area, they already have much higher costs in terms of fuel and costs of living, and this will send some families under.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u002212d74f81-b1f7-4b51-9fb4-8f9481477192\u0022 data-id=\u002202d8de1287a54d659f1535d7a4ec33b4\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000268\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002212d74f81-b1f7-4b51-9fb4-8f9481477192\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u002202d8de1287a54d659f1535d7a4ec33b4\u0022\u003EDr DEBORAH RUSSELL (Labour\u2014New Lynn):\u003C/span\u003E I\u2019m delighted to have this opportunity to speak, really, to some of the misunderstandings that have arisen, that have been talked about, in the course of this debate on the Land Transport Management (Regional Fuel Tax) Amendment Bill. I thought I\u2019d talk to some of the issues that have been raised. I think Mr Jami-Lee Ross, early on, said that, in fact, there hadn\u2019t been enough time to debate this bill; it was a truncated process that, really, people hadn\u2019t had time to have their say on. But, frankly, there were 520 submissions on it. I\u2019d say that was an awful lot of people having their say. So there was plenty of time for people to put in submissions and have their say on this bill. So I just think the evidence contradicts Mr Jami-Lee Ross there.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000269\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002212d74f81-b1f7-4b51-9fb4-8f9481477192\u0022\u003EThen we had some discussion as to whether or not there was much support for the tax. Now, not many opinion polls do support increased taxes; that\u2019s just one of those things, and as a Parliament we have to take a mature attitude and try to think through the virtues in themselves. But I would point out to the members on the Opposition benches the Colmar Brunton poll released on 18 April, which showed 52 percent support for the regional fuel tax in Auckland. I\u2019m going to sell it even further: it stacks up with a number of things that Aucklanders have supported recently because they understand the critical needs of their city. There is now going to be a targeted rate in Auckland to fix up our damaged waterways, and people are happy to pay that targeted rate. There is now going to be an environmental targeted rate in Auckland because people are deeply worried about our environmental issues, and they are happy to pay an extra targeted tax in order to fix those problems. Likewise, there is support in Auckland for this regional fuel tax because Aucklanders understand the problems. They understand the need to take action. They know it will hurt, but they are prepared to pay the extra money in order to fix the extraordinary congestion in their city.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000270\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002212d74f81-b1f7-4b51-9fb4-8f9481477192\u0022\u003EAnd it is extraordinary congestion. Aucklanders spend so much time stuck on the roads. They spend so much time stuck in traffic. We now have issues where tradies won\u2019t take jobs or won\u2019t allow deliveries after 3 o\u2019clock because they cannot guarantee that the deliveries will get to them. We now have issues where tradies won\u2019t take jobs across the city because the travel takes just too much time. So when the Opposition talk about the cost of business, why are they not thinking about the extraordinary costs that congestion imposes on business and the need we have to do something about it, not in some never-never land, like the plans that they proposed when they were in Government, but now\u2014right now? We need to take action now on Auckland transport.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000271\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002212d74f81-b1f7-4b51-9fb4-8f9481477192\u0022\u003EThen there were the concerns\u2014and this is an extraordinary thing to hear from the Opposition\u2014that a regional fuel tax would impose the most on the poor. It\u2019s a shame we didn\u2019t hear those claims when GST was increased from 12.5 percent to 15 percent on everything that people buy, not just fuel taxes. Suddenly\u2014suddenly\u2014they have started this concern right now. But I want to say something here: congestion impacts hardest on the poor. Lack of public transport impacts hardest on the poor. I want to point you to what one Auckland councillor said when Auckland councillors debated this themselves and went through an extraordinary debate on it. This is an Auckland city councillor who represents people in \u014Ct\u0101huhu, who represents some of the poorest people in our city. Councillor Josephine Bartley said, as she voted in favour of this regional fuel tax\u2014\u201CA society grows great when old men plant trees whose shade they know they will never sit under.\u201D\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000272\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002212d74f81-b1f7-4b51-9fb4-8f9481477192\u0022\u003EWe have to plan for the future, and a good society doesn\u2019t plan just for today, it doesn\u2019t plan just for next week or next year; it plans for the long-term future, and this is what this Auckland regional fuel tax will assist in doing. And that is why I support this regional fuel tax, and I ask the Opposition to consider it seriously instead of just standing up with mindless, braying, cackling opposition to it. There is a real need for this fuel tax, and on this side of the House we are prepared to take the hard action. We are prepared to go and walk the talk and make sure that we fund a decent transport system in Auckland. That is why I support this regional fuel tax.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u002223de6bd3-0482-495d-88f4-7cc3f75d8442\u0022 data-id=\u0022a21adf5d20a443adbb59096d57c718f8\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000273\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002223de6bd3-0482-495d-88f4-7cc3f75d8442\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u0022a21adf5d20a443adbb59096d57c718f8\u0022\u003EHon NATHAN GUY (National\u2014\u014Ctaki):\u003C/span\u003E Thank you, Madam Chair. I\u2019ve read quite a few of the submissions that\u2019ve come through the Finance and Expenditure Committee, and the one that I think best sums up the feeling out there in New Zealand is the one from Ken Shirley from the Road Transport Forum New Zealand. He said that the regional fuel tax is an absolute nonsense. Here we have the Minister in the chair, Phil Twyford, laughing at those comments, and I can\u2019t believe that. The Minister is laughing when he knows the cost of fruit and vegetables is going to go up, because I\u2019ve heard and read Ken Shirley\u2019s comments: this regional fuel taxes is just going to be passed on. Who\u2019s it going to impact the most on? Those low-income earners. And then all those people in Auckland\u2014and we didn\u2019t hear that from the previous speaker, Deborah Russell\u2014are going to have to pay 25.3c in a matter of days\u2019 time. On 1 July, they will be hit by a double whammy. They\u2019ll get hit with a regional fuel tax and the one that\u2019s going across the whole of New Zealand.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000274\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002223de6bd3-0482-495d-88f4-7cc3f75d8442\u0022\u003EOn this side of the House, we could fund roads of national significance without having to enforce a regional fuel tax. Why can we do that? Because of prudent management. If the Government is so focused on this tax, why not have a congestion tax? What we haven\u2019t heard from the other side of the House is how this is going to be spread out into other regions. What we know is already happening is when you drive over the Bombay Hills, down into the Waikato, already they know this tax is coming and the price is going to go up. What is going to have a perverse impact is motorists will probably fill their trailers and boots up with their good old jerrycans and head out of the Auckland region to fill up their jerrycans\u2014imagine the safety consequences of that. This tax isn\u2019t needed. The Government said\u2014actually, the Labour Party and other political parties now in coalition said\u2014there would be no new taxes. Now, this is going to roll out and really impact not only all of Auckland; but it\u2019s going to be felt across New Zealand.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000275\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002223de6bd3-0482-495d-88f4-7cc3f75d8442\u0022\u003ENow, we are debating Part 1 this afternoon, and I have got an amendment that\u2019s going to come through in my name and be on the Table shortly. It\u2019s going to propose an exemption for, primarily, commercially used vehicles that are travelling with agriculture products on board. As I\u2019ve already mentioned, and it was to the fore when the Horticulture New Zealand board came and presented to the Finance and Expenditure Committee, this is going to have not only a big impact on fruit and vegetables; it\u2019s going to impact on all of those staple food items that are going to go through to supermarkets. Those costs are going to be rolled out to all consumers.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000276\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002223de6bd3-0482-495d-88f4-7cc3f75d8442\u0022\u003EWhat is also really interesting, and it relates to the regional fuel tax, is in my electorate, where we have a slowdown on the New Zealand Transport Agency confirming back to the Horowhenua community\u2014400 houses in limbo at the moment\u2014as to where the proposed route is going to go on the extension of the road of national significance from \u014Ctaki to around Levin. I\u2019d be very interested to hear the Minister\u2019s comments on that, because he is saying, \u201COh no. Oh no, that\u2019s at arm\u2019s length. No, I don\u2019t get involved in that.\u201D And yet it was fine that he raided money out of the National Land Transport Fund for Auckland trams. It was fine for them to bring in KiwiRail when that used to go straight through to Cabinet. So the National Land Transport Fund is being raided.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000277\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002223de6bd3-0482-495d-88f4-7cc3f75d8442\u0022\u003EEven with this regional fuel tax, there won\u2019t be enough money, in my view, to build the Horowhenua Expressway. What was summarised the best was from the former coroner when he likened that section of road to \u201Ca killing field marked like a battlefield with white crosses.\u201D Since 2013, there have been 11 deaths and 43 serious injuries. If Mr Jones, over there on the Government side of the House, was so focused on regional New Zealand, you would think that he would be supporting the Horowhenua Expressway. There\u2019s so much doubt that my community are paralysed. They don\u2019t know if the Government is going to confirm the route. They don\u2019t know if they\u2019re going to take a long cup of tea and say that we need to delay it. Those landowners in Horowhenua need certainty. What we have seen with the Kapiti Expressway is the huge economic development that flows on the back of a decent four-lane road. Not only is it about safety; it\u2019s about productivity\u2014getting your produce through to the capital city of Auckland, and connecting through with the lower North Island.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000278\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002223de6bd3-0482-495d-88f4-7cc3f75d8442\u0022\u003ESo this regional fuel tax\u2014bringing it back to Part 1\u2014is not necessary. If the Government really wanted to do something, it should be focused on a congestion tax. This is going to mean that the cost of not only the regional fuel tax but the other tax that comes in in a matter of weeks is going to be felt right across New Zealand. The Government policy statement has changed, and the concern that I have is that they have moved away from productivity. Minister Twyford, in the chair, a question for you: if the Government policy statement is focused on safety, will you confirm that you will provide the funding for the Horowhenua Expressway? Silence. I can\u2019t even get\u2014oh, he\u2019s looking up now. I can\u2019t even get a head nod or a shake of the head saying yes or no. This is the uncertainty that we have\u2014\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000279\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022098b8334-57f8-4062-bac6-bfbc3474e88e\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u00223dfeec714746435c94caba494117a419\u0022\u003EMichael Wood\u003C/span\u003E: I raise a point of order, Madam Chairperson. I believe that this speech, along with most other Opposition speeches, are in breach of Speaker\u2019s ruling 110/3, which sets out that all speeches at this stage of proceedings in the committee should deal with the nuts and bolts clauses of the bill. We\u2019ve had absolutely nothing of that eight minutes into this speech.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000280\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022977cccaf-581d-4f48-924e-32bf6c54a93d\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u002268c4012edf11408fbe8afa4c34aea00b\u0022\u003ECHAIRPERSON (Hon Anne Tolley)\u003C/span\u003E: It may well be. It is for me to judge, and I have judged that the debate so far has been focused on Part 1. They don\u2019t have to refer to individual clauses, but they can talk about Part 1 of the bill, and I\u2019m satisfied that that\u2019s in fact happening.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000281\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002223de6bd3-0482-495d-88f4-7cc3f75d8442\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022b51b3a9c291f4c4dbce9995f76780bc4\u0022\u003EHon NATHAN GUY\u003C/span\u003E: Thank you, Madam Chair. Following on from the comments that I was just making previously, before the point of order was raised, I still look forward to hearing from the Minister, answering the questions that I have raised with him today. In particular, I also want to refer to the fuel outlets, which is in Part 1, clause 5, inserting new section 65A. What\u2019s really important in this part is about the collection of this and indeed the fuel outlets and where the geographic regions spreads from, and then the prices that are going to incur just outside of the region\u2014how indeed is that going to be monitored? We still don\u2019t know. We\u2019ve already seen prices going up.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000282\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002223de6bd3-0482-495d-88f4-7cc3f75d8442\u0022\u003EIt\u2019s really interesting when I refer back to my electorate of \u014Ctaki, because I have some of the cheapest fuel in the whole of the country. It\u2019s fascinating when you go into Levin because I\u2019ve got the competition there with Gull, and Waitomo Group up the road in Foxton, and Allied Petroleum, and then down the road you have the big BP and Z Energy and Co in \u014Ctaki, and often the difference between Levin and \u014Ctaki can be 20c a litre on 91 fuel.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000283\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002223de6bd3-0482-495d-88f4-7cc3f75d8442\u0022\u003EMy advice, until the Government gets organised with their Commerce Commission inquiry and the recommendations that will flow from that, is that motorists should look at an app\u2014and download it\u2014called Gaspy. When they\u2019re travelling around the country Gaspy is a fantastic app where you can very easily see when you go into a town. Gaspy will be really important when motorists move into Auckland or even just go out of Auckland. As they come over the Bombay Hills, or they\u2019re travelling through Auckland, they\u2019ll know that they\u2019re going to need to pay an extra 25.3c with the regional fuel tax and the nationwide tax, so the Gaspy app is going to be really important when they come in or out of the Auckland region, knowing where the cheapest and most efficient fuel is.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000284\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002223de6bd3-0482-495d-88f4-7cc3f75d8442\u0022\u003ECan I conclude by saying that this regional fuel tax isn\u2019t warranted. I hope that the Minister will support my amendment that does allow an exemption for vehicles operated primarily during the course of commercial farming operations, because I believe that\u2019s paramount. If this Government wants to be inclusive and focused on poverty and look after the most vulnerable in our community, you would think that they would make an exemption for vehicles that are carrying agriculture products either to market or to the supermarkets and back or, indeed, to smaller outlets closer to home. So this bill isn\u2019t needed. It\u2019s yet another tax. I look forward to the Minister responding to my questions as to whether he supports the Horowhenua Expressway.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u0022071f7800-2755-41b6-83df-07ebaf867ae2\u0022 data-id=\u00226de4169fa3a644ed8f7782fea5213e61\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000285\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022071f7800-2755-41b6-83df-07ebaf867ae2\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u00226de4169fa3a644ed8f7782fea5213e61\u0022\u003ETIM VAN DE MOLEN (National\u2014Waikato):\u003C/span\u003E Thank you, Madam Chair\u2014fantastic choice. Now, look, I\u2019d just like to make a contribution to this bill, as well. It\u2019s interesting to note the lack of interest from the Government\u2019s side of the Chamber in actually getting up and taking a call on this, which I think is representative of their lack of interest in general for the wider issue of transportation within Auckland. That is clearly demonstrated by the last member from the Government who actually did take a call, who was able to dredge up one poll that showed support, and clung to that poll for five minutes\u2019 worth of rhetoric. Well, actually, there were four polls in May that all opposed this bill being implemented. They said there was no need for a regional fuel tax in Auckland. Four different polls conducted throughout the month of May all came up with the same conclusion. And the Government is not interested in taking a call today. They\u2019re clearly not interested in listening to the public of Auckland either.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000286\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022071f7800-2755-41b6-83df-07ebaf867ae2\u0022\u003EReally, this is about raising funds to cover the shortfall that the Auckland Council hasn\u2019t been able to stump up. Mayor Phil Goff committed to reducing expenditure to provide extra capital available for investment in infrastructure, and that has fallen short.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000287\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002255d0b7a4-a2c9-4c38-9b77-475311a48a89\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u00222666fd571c8c4bd0ab600e80bac7f93a\u0022\u003ESimeon Brown\u003C/span\u003E: And what\u2019s he done?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000288\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022071f7800-2755-41b6-83df-07ebaf867ae2\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u002209e2a84c202e42f6872f19bd647d364b\u0022\u003ETIM VAN DE MOLEN\u003C/span\u003E: He hasn\u2019t achieved it all, Mr Brown, as well you\u2019d be aware as an Auckland MP. This is a disappointing outcome for Aucklanders in general. And now the Government\u2019s trying to scramble and cover for Mr Goff\u2019s lack of savings by implementing this regional fuel tax.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000289\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022071f7800-2755-41b6-83df-07ebaf867ae2\u0022\u003EThey\u2019ve also gone and raided funds\u2014a significant level: $5 billion of funding\u2014from the roads of national significance projects outlined by the previous Government; projects that were going to enhance safety across New Zealand. And there were a number of petitions presented in the House, just today actually, some of those covering areas around the Waikato in my electorate, and those petitions were advocated for, on behalf of all New Zealanders, strongly by my colleague sitting beside me, Tim Macindoe MP for Hamilton West, and myself. We were both very keen to see these roads continue, in particular, and yet we haven\u2019t seen that.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000290\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022071f7800-2755-41b6-83df-07ebaf867ae2\u0022\u003EAnd, on top of that actually, what we\u2019ve seen now is a significant change. We\u2019ve heard, just recently actually, the Government Policy Statement (GPS) put out\u2014\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000291\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022977cccaf-581d-4f48-924e-32bf6c54a93d\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u00228d227de46aa146b18cd057e984166193\u0022\u003EDEPUTY SPEAKER\u003C/span\u003E: I\u2019ll just remind the member we are debating Part 1 of this bill, not the GPS.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000292\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022071f7800-2755-41b6-83df-07ebaf867ae2\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022f515634364bf45d58218ebf1f4459801\u0022\u003ETIM VAN DE MOLEN\u003C/span\u003E: Yes, thank you, Madam Deputy Chair. And what we\u2019re seeing is actually that their focus on safety, which they\u2019re talking about in Auckland being a key priority\u2014actually the New Zealand Transport Agency put out a list of 10 top high-risk rural intersections around the country, six of those were in the Waikato. Five of them were going to be bypassed by the expressway projects, and that\u2019s now not happening. So I call them out on their claim that safety is their key priority, when clearly their actions are demonstrating otherwise. This is another example of the Government trying to talk their way out of something they\u2019ve acted their way into. And, frankly, New Zealanders won\u2019t buy it.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000293\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022071f7800-2755-41b6-83df-07ebaf867ae2\u0022\u003ELooking now to the regional fuel tax, what we\u2019re seeing here is, actually, there\u2019s a number of issues with this. And I want to come back to some of the points that were touched on earlier around electric vehicles. We\u2019ve seen a significant increase in the number of electric vehicles being registered in New Zealand. This graph shows exponential growth in terms of vehicles registered throughout New Zealand. We\u2019re seeing a massive number now. There were at 31 May this year 3,875 electric vehicles registered. Now, when you consider that significant increase\u2014and, coincidentally, that\u2019s more than are registered in Australia by a country mile\u2014this significant increase in the uptake of electric vehicles that don\u2019t require the usage of fuel is actually going to see a reduction in the revenue gained from a regional fuel tax. And we haven\u2019t seen that taken into account in the figures at all. So I\u2019d be interested to hear from the Minister in the chair what his perspective is on the potential reduction in revenue obtained as a result of the significant increase in electric vehicle uptakes as promoted under the last Government.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000294\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022071f7800-2755-41b6-83df-07ebaf867ae2\u0022\u003EAlso, what we\u2019re seeing is these electric vehicles are typically owned by New Zealanders who have a little bit more spare cash. They\u2019re able to afford to take up this new technology. That means that lower-income New Zealanders are going to be the ones stuck capturing\u2014or, I guess, incurring\u2014the bulk of the cost around this regional fuel tax. And what we\u2019ve heard already from one assessment is that could be up to three times more cost incurred by low-income families, because they might be driving less efficient vehicles, than by other Aucklanders who are able to have more efficient vehicles, or, indeed, those who have electric vehicles and pay nothing at all\u2014so a significant discrepancy here.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u002255d0b7a4-a2c9-4c38-9b77-475311a48a89\u0022 data-id=\u00221e03afdce85a4b82a7a04080eea27413\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000295\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002255d0b7a4-a2c9-4c38-9b77-475311a48a89\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u00221e03afdce85a4b82a7a04080eea27413\u0022\u003ESIMEON BROWN (National\u2014Pakuranga):\u003C/span\u003E Thank you very much, Madam Chair, for the opportunity to speak on the Land Transport Management (Regional Fuel Tax) Amendment Bill in committee stage. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000296\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002255d0b7a4-a2c9-4c38-9b77-475311a48a89\u0022\u003EI would like to ask the Minister in the chair, Phil Twyford, a number of questions. These questions relate to Subpart 3, new section 65E, inserted by clause 5, \u201CProposal for RFT scheme: content requirements\u201D. Now, this new section here is to do with a council which wants to put in place a regional fuel tax (RFT), and the requirements that they have to undertake in order to be able to put one together. And I\u2019ve got a number of questions in relation to this, because there are a large number of terms which, I think, require some defining by the Minister.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000297\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002255d0b7a4-a2c9-4c38-9b77-475311a48a89\u0022\u003EThe first question comes under paragraph (c)(iii). It says, \u201Cexplain why the regional council believes the project provides value for money;\u201D. I guess my first question is what does \u201Cvalue for money\u201D mean? I think that\u2019s quite a broad term. Is that a benefit-cost ratio? Is that a benefit-cost ratio which the Minister has any guidance over, what value for money would be? I know that the Minister has criticised certain projects for their value for money in the past, and I wonder if the Minister has any guidance as to what regional councils should be taking into account as so-called value for money.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000298\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002255d0b7a4-a2c9-4c38-9b77-475311a48a89\u0022\u003EThe second question comes under the next subparagraph, subparagraph (iv), which states, \u201Cset out its proposed completion date;\u201D. Now, if there\u2019s a completion date, is that when it is proposed to be completed? Is there a contingency in that time frame? Is it something which can be moved? What kind of parameters does that allow for the regional council to be able to put in place?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000299\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002255d0b7a4-a2c9-4c38-9b77-475311a48a89\u0022\u003EThe next subparagraph, subparagraph (v), says, \u201Cstate the amount of capital expenditure expected to be required from regional fuel tax;\u201D. Now, does that take into account cost blowouts? I mean, we know that a large number of particularly light-rail projects have cost blowouts, as we\u2019ve seen from around the world, and I was wondering whether the Minister thinks that the regional councils should be making a contingency for these so-called cost blowouts.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000300\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002255d0b7a4-a2c9-4c38-9b77-475311a48a89\u0022\u003EA little further down, under paragraph (e), it says, \u201Cset out the rate or rates of regional fuel tax and the period during which each rate is to apply;\u201D. I guess my question there is why the reference to \u201Crate\u201D and \u201Crates\u201D? I notice earlier in the legislation\u2014in new section 65C(3)\u2014it says that \u201CThe maximum rate of [a] regional fuel tax under an RFT scheme is $0.10 per litre.\u201D\u2014and, of course, that\u2019s plus GST; as we know on this side of the House, you have to add that on as well. But, I guess, my question is does that allow a regional council to put in place one regional fuel tax for 10c a litre, and then another one for another 10c a litre and then make it more and more, or does that mean that you can have three regional fuel taxes of 3c per litre? I guess there\u2019s a wide range of different questions that I\u2019ve got around how that subsection operates. \u201CRate or rates\u201D does seem to be quite a broad definition, and whether that should only be referring to \u201Crate\u201D may be an improvement that we could assist the Minister on from this side of the House. I\u2019m happy to provide a Supplementary Order Paper to that effect, to improve that paragraph (e), if the Minister is interested in my assistance.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000301\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002255d0b7a4-a2c9-4c38-9b77-475311a48a89\u0022\u003EUnder new section 65E(fa), it says, \u201Cset out the forecast expenses of administering the scheme, including RFT rebate processing;\u201D. I guess my question on this is what advice has the Minister received? I\u2019m glad to see the Minister taking note there of these questions. How much will it cost, the admin? What advice has he received around the costs of this administration? How much will it cost? I assume that some regional fuel taxes may cost more than others; I\u2019m not sure. I would\u2019ve thought that the cost of running these schemes would be reasonably standard across the country\u2014maybe it\u2019s not. It\u2019d be helpful for the House to know what advice he has received around that.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000302\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002255d0b7a4-a2c9-4c38-9b77-475311a48a89\u0022\u003EA little bit later, in new section 65E(fc), it says, \u201Cstate to what extent the regional council expects the RFT scheme to change fuel-buying behaviour by the public, any likely consequences from such changes, and how such anticipated changes have been taken into account in the revenue forecast;\u201D. Now, I guess my question in this is\u2014that\u2019s quite a lot of research, quite a lot of work for a regional council to put in place, putting this scheme together. I do expect that they should do this work if they\u2019re going to get the money. However, I would have also thought that this is something on which there would be some advice already put forward by the Ministry of Transport. Has there been some advice on what this is going to cost? Has there been any modelling? I think the question that my colleague Tim van de Molen mentioned earlier was quite relevant\u2014[Time expired]\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u0022f44431ef-b505-4e94-9f57-a60b0a569bf7\u0022 data-id=\u0022fc10268536b34e918f18d8ba2b14c7a9\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000303\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022f44431ef-b505-4e94-9f57-a60b0a569bf7\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u0022fc10268536b34e918f18d8ba2b14c7a9\u0022\u003EHon SHANE JONES (Associate Minister of Transport):\u003C/span\u003E Madam Chair, thank you for that inspired choice. Earlier, one of the National Party members, Chris Penk\u2014I\u2019m not sure. I think it was King Lear\u2014he invoked the name of King Lear.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000304\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022d1e081856f13472fbb744aa82815bcc8\u0022\u003EHon Member\u003C/span\u003E: That\u2019s right.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000305\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022f44431ef-b505-4e94-9f57-a60b0a569bf7\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022807c2678518640ccb15e5c6fbfb9dabb\u0022\u003EHon SHANE JONES\u003C/span\u003E: OK. Of course, the great saying from King Lear, Madam Chair, if you will enable me to respond\u2014as he challenged whether or not anyone on this side of the Chamber knew what he was talking about. What he needs to remember is \u201CHow sharper than a serpent\u2019s tooth is the thankless child.\u201D Both that speech and the speech just given by the member Simeon Brown, who\u2019s resumed his seat, were juvenile, empty, shouting, irrelevant\u2014\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000306\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022977cccaf-581d-4f48-924e-32bf6c54a93d\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u00224c68166f3dc84fb08b8e2ab0efbaea7e\u0022\u003ECHAIRPERSON (Hon Anne Tolley)\u003C/span\u003E: Order! The second two might be in order but the Standing Orders are quite clear that you can\u2019t refer to the age of members. All members are honourable no matter their age.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000307\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022f44431ef-b505-4e94-9f57-a60b0a569bf7\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022be702f782a07430e85b6e9533f41d0bf\u0022\u003EHon SHANE JONES\u003C/span\u003E: Thank you very much for those words. Perhaps I read too much into what they were saying, but perhaps \u201Cvacuous\u201D is the best description. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000308\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022f44431ef-b505-4e94-9f57-a60b0a569bf7\u0022\u003EThis bill enjoys total support on this side of the House. This bill is related to a number of projects that have been consulted upon, that were identified both during our time and floating around under the last regime, and those projects in Auckland will be funded. They will be funded through a mix of generic funding, but they will be turbocharged because this bill introduces a system where a regional fuel tax will pass and create a new opportunity for Mayor Goff and the planners, the architects, and the visionaries\u2014not unlike my colleague Mr Twyford, sitting here, who actually want to see transportation issues in Auckland solved.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000309\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022f44431ef-b505-4e94-9f57-a60b0a569bf7\u0022\u003ENow, in the last nine years, the other side of this House had their opportunity. Now, let\u2019s just think what they did. They waited for the treasurer, Mr English, to leave the country before they breathed life into former Mayor Brown\u2019s vision for the railway loop, because they as a party over the last nine years were deeply divided on these issues. They were prepared to dedicate funds out into building four-lane expressways in the mistaken belief that it was going to enhance the productivity of neglected regions and provinces, and they did that by purloining the dough out of those neglected regions, and this is getting motorists, fuel users, fuel purchasers to pay whilst they are adding to the congestion and the pressure in Auckland.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000310\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022f44431ef-b505-4e94-9f57-a60b0a569bf7\u0022\u003ENow, it\u2019s been said that the folk from Great Barrier or Waiheke\u2014the member for Auckland Central doesn\u2019t want the Waiheke people to actually pay their way in respect of this fuel tax. What does that member think Waiheke people do when they come over to Auckland? Does she think they are on a magic mat? Does she think that they walk on air? Does she think they are as airy-headed as some of the speakers on the other side of the Chamber? They have to actually contribute because they add to the congestion in Auckland.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000311\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022f44431ef-b505-4e94-9f57-a60b0a569bf7\u0022\u003ENow, it might be said that this falls upon those who are of limited means\u2014financial means. The best option for those families is to enhance the ability of the public sector transportation system to continue to absorb more numbers. That is not going to happen unless we have a deeper well of capital. This is a tried and true approach: create the legislative basis where regional councils, against the plan, with projects that are identified\u2014not all these whimsical things that are being said about my colleague\u2019s visionary scheme for light rail. Light rail will not receive one cent of the proceeds from this tax. It will be subject to a rigorous appraisal process, but, more importantly, it will attract, without a sliver of doubt, financial capital from other sources at some point in time. It will not receive one cent of this regional fuel tax, because the projects that will be supported have gone through a democratic process, a transparent process, and a very public declaration of where those projects are. For the first time, they will be funded, and this fuel tax will be a key ingredient.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u00228a1cb04e-8a86-44d1-9004-6e158e220339\u0022 data-id=\u0022b20caa5e2f4d4d3baf322c312aa0f101\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000312\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00228a1cb04e-8a86-44d1-9004-6e158e220339\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u0022b20caa5e2f4d4d3baf322c312aa0f101\u0022\u003EHon TIM MACINDOE (National\u2014Hamilton West):\u003C/span\u003E Thank you, Madam Chair. What a pleasure it is to follow the gentleman with the King Lear delusions\u2014Shane Jones. I\u2019m tempted to quote more of the play too, particularly about all the titles that he\u2019s given away, because he does seem to have this sort of Sir Les Patterson delusion about him. Anyway, let me get on with the bill.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000313\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00228a1cb04e-8a86-44d1-9004-6e158e220339\u0022\u003EHe spoke about the benefits that this will supposedly bring to people around the country. Well, I have to say to that member: not in my patch. I speak as a Waikato member of Parliament for whom this Government\u2014particularly in their transport policies\u2014is a massive disappointment. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000314\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00228a1cb04e-8a86-44d1-9004-6e158e220339\u0022\u003EI was very proud as a candidate in 2008 who was subsequently given the privilege of being elected to this House to represent Hamilton West in November of that year, when the then about-to-become Prime Minister, John Key, announced our commitment to the Waikato Expressway, a massive project over 10 stages, which was, at $2.1 billion, one of the biggest roading projects this country has ever seen. And here we are, as you will know, 10 years later, proudly able to say that that is a project that is being delivered on time and within budget. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000315\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00228a1cb04e-8a86-44d1-9004-6e158e220339\u0022\u003EFor those who currently use the roads heading north, they will be aware of the fact that there are disruptions on the road. No one\u2019s going to pretend that for the short term it isn\u2019t quite a pain at busy times, having to make your way currently through the road works in Te Kauwhata, but the point is the project is being delivered. For the sections that are now open, whether it\u2019s Cambridge\u2014and I had the privilege of being the Associate Minister of Transport last year and declaring a 110 kilometre speed limit for the Cambridge section, because it\u2019s now one of the safest sections of roading in the country.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000316\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00228a1cb04e-8a86-44d1-9004-6e158e220339\u0022\u003ESo when we look at regional fuel taxes, surely we should be looking at measures that are going to enhance that type of delivery of infrastructure to New Zealanders. But not a bit of it, with this particular measure, because not only is this regional fuel tax not going to be of any benefit to anybody in the areas well away from Auckland; what we are seeing is a Government that is moving away from commitments that the previous Government had made that would have delivered the real, tangible benefits to the regions that people right around the country were hoping for and were delighted to receive at the last election.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000317\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00228a1cb04e-8a86-44d1-9004-6e158e220339\u0022\u003EThat\u2019s why today so many of my colleagues have tabled petitions affirming their support for those projects which should be\u2014which should be\u2014the focus of the Government. And what is the really important point when we look at this particular bill?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000318\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002255d0b7a4-a2c9-4c38-9b77-475311a48a89\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u00220de39be2f3ef4e1bbb6560bef792ebd7\u0022\u003ESimeon Brown\u003C/span\u003E: The voice of the people\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000319\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00228a1cb04e-8a86-44d1-9004-6e158e220339\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u00220530bfa41564432eab6bab9c2378ca4b\u0022\u003EHon TIM MACINDOE\u003C/span\u003E: The really important point\u2014yes, it is the voice of the people, as the fine member for Pakuranga is pointing out. But the really important point was all of those projects were being delivered, or would have been delivered, without having to resort to a measure of this type. So, instead, what you\u2019re getting is a Government that is determined to take more money out of the pockets of New Zealanders\u2014and particularly those who travel through the Auckland region, but, make no mistake, they plan to go right around the country with this particular measure\u2014but then failed to deliver. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000320\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00228a1cb04e-8a86-44d1-9004-6e158e220339\u0022\u003ENow, let me give you two examples. We also at the last election made a commitment to improving one of the most dangerous sections of road in my region, and that is the section that goes from Hamilton across to Tauranga, where the intersection at Piarere claims lives and causes massive disruption, and often I have seen cars backed up on the road, back towards Tauranga\u201430 or 40 back at busy times. The result is that by the time people finally inch their way to the head of the T-intersection, they start taking dangerous risks. So to have taken that project off the table, which this Minister and his Government have done, while at the same time saying \u201COh, we need more money through regional fuel taxes.\u201D, seems to me that they have completely lost the plot as to how to deliver the infrastructure that people really need.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000321\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00228a1cb04e-8a86-44d1-9004-6e158e220339\u0022\u003ENow, I just want to mention the amendment in my name, which, in clause 5, is to add an additional paragraph (f) to the definition of \u201Cexempt use\u201D in new section 65A, the definitions section, which talks about exemptions, because I think the Government has really failed to acknowledge the important part that areas such as mine play in our nation\u2019s agriculture. The Waikato region is the heart of dairy production in New Zealand, and so my amendment seeks for there to be an exemption for any use for commercial rural activities. But it might not just be dairy; it\u2019s stock trucks right around the country. There are a whole lot of areas of this country that need to be able to deliver their goods.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u0022ed2de46a-9047-4bfe-92c8-5f14fd415dfb\u0022 data-id=\u0022ca2933bc14ef400db7de9e07ab0ffb01\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000322\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022ed2de46a-9047-4bfe-92c8-5f14fd415dfb\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u0022ca2933bc14ef400db7de9e07ab0ffb01\u0022\u003EANDREW FALLOON (National\u2014Rangitata):\u003C/span\u003E Thank you, Madam Chair. I\u2019m pleased to be taking a call this afternoon in the committee stage of the Land Transport Management (Regional Fuel Tax) Amendment Bill. I\u2019ll be joining the rest of my colleagues in speaking against the bill, but I did just want to run through, to start with, an amendment in my name setting out an amendment to new section 65D of the Act, set out in clause 5. New section 65D currently reads, \u201CA regional council may prepare a proposal to establish or replace an RFT scheme for the region, or a part of the region, if the council, having regard to the views of the regional transport committee, considers that there are 1 or more capital projects that\u2014\u201D, and then my amendment adds new section 65D(c), which reads, \u201CMust only fund projects that are certified by the New Zealand Transport Authority to have a positive benefit to cost ratio.\u201D\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000323\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022ed2de46a-9047-4bfe-92c8-5f14fd415dfb\u0022\u003EI do that for a very specific reason, and that is that if we are going to have this new tax in Auckland\u2014and probably in other parts of the country, frankly\u2014then it should be spent well. So my first question to the Minister Phil Twyford is: will he support that amendment? The reason I ask him specifically is because as Labour\u2019s transport spokesperson before the last election, he went on at length about a cost-benefit analysis for a number of roads that the former National Government proposed. So I ask him: will he support this amendment in my name being included in his bill?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000324\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022ed2de46a-9047-4bfe-92c8-5f14fd415dfb\u0022\u003EI then want to come on to another part of clause 5, and this is in relation to new section 65A, \u201CDefinitions\u201D. Part of \u201CDefinitions\u201D lays out that a \u201C \u2018region\u2019 means a region as defined in section 5(1) of the Local Government Act 2002\u201D. So my second question to the Minister is if this is for Auckland and if this is just for Auckland, then why doesn\u2019t he amend that definition to be clear that \u201Ca region\u201D shall mean Auckland, rather than \u201Ca region\u201D could be any region in any part of New Zealand? I think the reason actually is pretty self-explanatory. It\u2019s because this bill isn\u2019t just for Auckland; it\u2019s actually for other parts of the country as well. We\u2019ve seen that with, I think, mayors from Hamilton, from Tauranga, from Wellington, and from Christchurch coming out and saying that they want to be included and have a regional fuel tax, and it will just be, as we know, at the whim of the Minister. It won\u2019t require further legislation coming to this House. So I ask the Minister: if he\u2019s suggesting it\u2019s just for Auckland, then make it very clear\u2014make it very clear to those other mayors around the country\u2014that this won\u2019t be available to them; this is just for Auckland, and just for Auckland in perpetuity.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000325\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022ed2de46a-9047-4bfe-92c8-5f14fd415dfb\u0022\u003EI then want to come to just below that, in the \u201CDefinitions\u201D again. It mentions \u201CRFT region\u201D and it says, \u201Cmeans a region, or part of a region, for which an RFT scheme has been established\u201D. My colleague Nikki Kaye has, I think, put in a very good Supplementary Order Paper (SOP), SOP 27, which relates to part of her electorate, which is Great Barrier Island, where they already have petrol at $3.30 per litre\u2014$3.30 per litre\u2014without this additional fuel tax. I do hope that members opposite do choose to support that SOP, because it is a very good one and it will mean that petrol on Great Barrier Island will not be subject to this tax and pushed up even further. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000326\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022ed2de46a-9047-4bfe-92c8-5f14fd415dfb\u0022\u003EBut I would ask the Minister if he would consider, perhaps, that if we\u2019re going to have region-specific amendments in that way, he also allows us, when there are new regions brought into this regional fuel tax, to bring legislation back to the House to give members here the opportunity to exempt other regions. The classic one that springs to mind for me is Stewart Island. Now, Stewart Island, part of the Southland district, has higher fuel prices there than on the mainland. They should be exempt as well, in the way that Great Barrier Island would be if my colleague Nikki Kaye\u2019s SOP passes.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000327\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022ed2de46a-9047-4bfe-92c8-5f14fd415dfb\u0022\u003EI now want to come to what we\u2019re going to get for this money. My colleagues earlier in the debate have referred to price spreading. The unfortunate thing about this legislation is it doesn\u2019t preclude price spreading from occurring. There\u2019s nothing in the legislation at all that prevents price spreading. So we\u2019re talking about, I think, a 10c per litre tax. Members over this side have been talking about the potential for that to be spread across the country, and that might be 3c or 4c all around New Zealand rather than just\u2014[Time expired]\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u0022943fd636-21ec-4442-9a72-68c49464776f\u0022 data-id=\u002245113fb03d6a4e05b40397b3631efcc4\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000328\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022943fd636-21ec-4442-9a72-68c49464776f\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u002245113fb03d6a4e05b40397b3631efcc4\u0022\u003EDENISE LEE (National\u2014Maungakiekie):\u003C/span\u003E Thank you very much, Madam Chair. Apologies to the former speaker Andrew Falloon, who I\u2019m sure was\u2014his best points are still coming. So thank you very much, Madam Chair.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000329\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022943fd636-21ec-4442-9a72-68c49464776f\u0022\u003EI would like to refer to some submitters\u2019 comments as they relate to, of course, Part 1, and I would start by just talking a bit about this particular submitter Sam Warburton from the New Zealand Initiative. Just a quick background\u201410 seconds on his background\u2014to prove the point of what I\u2019ll call the depth of what he referred to in the Finance and Expenditure Committee. He\u2019s been an economist for 14 years, employed in the Ministry of Transport\u2019s funding and infrastructure team. He\u2019s helped and advised on three Government policy statements (GPS) coming through: 2015, the draft of 2018, when National was in Government, and, of course, the draft GPS for this Government. The submission of this particular submitter was his own views, but he is employed with the New Zealand Initiative.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000330\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022943fd636-21ec-4442-9a72-68c49464776f\u0022\u003EHe has referred to six particular points that we find in Part 1 of the bill that deserve some very close scrutiny and to which we here on this side of the House strongly object. The first is the overplaying in the regulatory impact statement, which this issue is now, of course, in Part 1 of the bill, of price spreading\u2014so if you look at the overplay of evidence for price spreading that was in that impact statement and how it under-commits to activities that would mitigate that price spreading. If we look at the issue of price spreading, we are just quite simply unable to get past the fact that back in the 1990s, according to the ministry, price spreading occurred when a fuel tax was previously introduced back in the 1990s, and in 2009, it was the reason that was put forward for repealing the fuel tax legislation back then. So if we don\u2019t think that these issues will occur again, I think we should look a little bit at history. We know that taxpayers around the country will be affected by this particular issue, and there\u2019s evidence of it already happening in the South Island\u2014that\u2019s been widely reported.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000331\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022943fd636-21ec-4442-9a72-68c49464776f\u0022\u003EThe second point that the submitter raised and now finds itself in, and related to this particular bill, is the exaggeration of black markets forming. That\u2019s something that we have paid particular close attention to. It\u2019s part of the rationale for the bill. We strongly object to that particular, ludicrous exaggeration.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000332\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022943fd636-21ec-4442-9a72-68c49464776f\u0022\u003EThe other is underplaying the impact of fuel tax on low-income residents. This particular point was highlighted by Deborah Russell earlier when she referred to Councillor Josephine Bartley representing the \u014Ct\u0101huhu ward in Auckland Council, which happens to be my particular previous ward. She now succeeds me. That particular area is probably roughly 10 percent of the ward, yet she chooses to highlight that and omits Councillor Efeso Collins\u2019 comments in regard to the impact on people. So here\u2019s a couple of quotes from Councillor Efeso Collins, if she chooses to quote Councillor Josephine Bartley. One is: \u201CThese taxes hit the poorest the most.\u201D The other is: \u201CFamilies are already below zero. This will be food off tables.\u201D So you can\u2019t get any more\u2014can you\u2014clearer than that, but no one on the other side of the Chamber seems to want to quote Councillor Fa\u2019anana Efeso Collins.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000333\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022ed2de46a-9047-4bfe-92c8-5f14fd415dfb\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022bde7814e4bf74dfd961f4593203e2601\u0022\u003EAndrew Falloon\u003C/span\u003E: He\u2019s a Labour councillor.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000334\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022943fd636-21ec-4442-9a72-68c49464776f\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u002240872a5a1900485dac059c13e4d47a42\u0022\u003EDENISE LEE\u003C/span\u003E: Yes, that\u2019s right. Thank you, my colleague on this side. He is a Labour Party councillor.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000335\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022943fd636-21ec-4442-9a72-68c49464776f\u0022\u003EThe other point that I want to raise, and it\u2019s related to Mr Sam Warburton\u2019s submission, is the way that the impact statement is, in his opinion\u2014but we agree\u2014incomprehensible in key parts in the way that the analysis is set out and it wrongly assesses the merits of some options.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000336\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022943fd636-21ec-4442-9a72-68c49464776f\u0022\u003EThe last point is it fails to recommend other options which Parliament could have legislated for. Was this the only option on the table? No. Was the fuel tax in Auckland Council an interim? No.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u0022a8cab3e3-b023-4ce7-9f4b-2c4137029057\u0022 data-id=\u0022900a881e582c4c3c9d835f6350807651\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000337\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022a8cab3e3-b023-4ce7-9f4b-2c4137029057\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u0022900a881e582c4c3c9d835f6350807651\u0022\u003EKIRITAPU ALLAN (Assistant Whip\u2014Labour):\u003C/span\u003E I move, That the question be now put.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u002255d0b7a4-a2c9-4c38-9b77-475311a48a89\u0022 data-id=\u002299a2244e9ac04d48afb8192441ac43c6\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000338\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002255d0b7a4-a2c9-4c38-9b77-475311a48a89\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u002299a2244e9ac04d48afb8192441ac43c6\u0022\u003ESIMEON BROWN (National\u2014Pakuranga):\u003C/span\u003E Thank you very much, Madam Chair. I appreciate the opportunity to take a second call and to ask some more questions.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000339\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022f44431ef-b505-4e94-9f57-a60b0a569bf7\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022a5619e59f63943e5aaf8fd6e6a6eb940\u0022\u003EHon Shane Jones\u003C/span\u003E: Again?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000340\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002255d0b7a4-a2c9-4c38-9b77-475311a48a89\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022b49f7e6dfb4f4d1590a43d472e31164b\u0022\u003ESIMEON BROWN\u003C/span\u003E: Yes, again, Mr Jones, because there\u2019s so many questions to ask on this tax. This is just another \u201Ctax, tax, tax\u201D, on the other side of the House, where they are trying to displace funding that we had put into these projects in Auckland so that they can build a tram up Dominion Road through the Prime Minister\u2019s electorate.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000341\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002255d0b7a4-a2c9-4c38-9b77-475311a48a89\u0022\u003EWell, I want to talk about consultation, because this is one of the parts of the Act in which a regional council needs to consult its community. We\u2019ve seen the consultation results come back from Auckland Council, and they\u2019ve come back very strongly opposed to this fuel tax. They\u2019ve come back consistently opposed to this fuel tax. In my electorate, in Pakuranga, with the Howick Local Board area, they have come back the most opposed to this particular fuel tax.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000342\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002255d0b7a4-a2c9-4c38-9b77-475311a48a89\u0022\u003ENow, my question is around the word \u201Cconsultation\u201D, which is in new section 65F(1) in clause 5. The regional council \u201C(a) must carry out consultation in accordance with the principles set out in section 82 of the Local Government Act 2002;\u201D. Well, what does \u201Cconsultation\u201D mean? That\u2019s my question for the Minister in the chair, the Hon Phil Twyford. We\u2019ve seen the consultation\u2014we\u2019ve seen the consistent feedback from ratepayers and residents in Auckland, and they\u2019ve been ignored. They\u2019ve been ignored over and over again, and now they\u2019re about to be ignored by this Government, which thinks that they know best and they know how to spend people\u2019s money better than ratepayers and taxpayers know themselves.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000343\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002255d0b7a4-a2c9-4c38-9b77-475311a48a89\u0022\u003ESo does this consultation mean they can just put in place a regional fuel tax without listening? Does it mean they can just put out a document, rush it through, shorten the consultation process, not even listen, and then vote against what the people are saying? That\u2019s what Aucklanders are feeling like at the moment\u2014they\u2019re feeling trampled by a Government and a council which is putting in place a tax which is being rushed through and where the council is not listening.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000344\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002255d0b7a4-a2c9-4c38-9b77-475311a48a89\u0022\u003EThere was a Facebook poll, which was referred to by one of the members on this side. When it first went up on their website, they said, \u201CThis poll on Facebook will count as formal consultation for the regional fuel tax.\u201D Then they looked at the results, and it was 60 percent, 65 percent, and it got up to 72 percent opposed. Then they said, \u201CWell, it\u2019ll just be indicative, and it will be informal feedback.\u201D\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000345\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002255d0b7a4-a2c9-4c38-9b77-475311a48a89\u0022\u003ESo what does \u201Cconsultation\u201D mean? What actually counts, because there were thousands\u2014there were thousands and thousands\u2014of Aucklanders who engaged on social media. The principles of the Local Government Act allow that you can engage in a whole variety of different ways, but when the result became something which the council didn\u2019t like, they decided they\u2019d just call it informal feedback which will be taken into consideration. Well, I find that shameful, and I think this Government and the Minister need to clarify what consultation means and what expectation he is going to set on regional councils in terms of the consultation process that they are going to go through.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000346\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002255d0b7a4-a2c9-4c38-9b77-475311a48a89\u0022\u003EI find it absolutely shameful that you could put through this legislation, which gives powers to councils to put in place huge taxes and which will burden ratepayers and taxpayers and people who need to fill up their cars, take their kids to the school, and pay for groceries, and all the rest\u2014and they don\u2019t even have to listen. I think that\u2019s shameful. There should be no taxation without representation, so where is the representation in this legislation? And I\u2019d like the Minister in the chair to take a call and actually answer that question, because it\u2019s about time we heard some answers to some of these significant questions which the people of Auckland are asking, asking, asking. And here I am in the Chamber, asking on behalf of my constituents in Pakuranga.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000347\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002255d0b7a4-a2c9-4c38-9b77-475311a48a89\u0022\u003EThere\u2019s a range of other questions that we\u2019ve got on this bill, but I think consultation is one of the most significant, because we can\u2019t, as a House, pass legislation which allows a council to go out there and not even listen. We can\u2019t allow the council just to go out there and just do what they like when there are significant cost savings that they could also make. There are other ways that this could be funded. There are other ways that the council could make these decisions, but we\u2019ve just given them carte blanche\u2014they can go out there and put these taxes in place\u2014and I find that absolutely shameful.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000348\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002255d0b7a4-a2c9-4c38-9b77-475311a48a89\u0022\u003ESo, as I conclude, I once again ask the Minister: what does consultation mean? What expectations does he have on the council? What process is he expecting of them? If the feedback cuts consistently against the proposed proposal, will there be an expectation on the regional councils to vote these things down, or will he just let them go through? Thank you very much.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u002203fd985b-4fb8-4111-ba38-5033a254d962\u0022 data-id=\u0022297d4a0c78414d41aded20bb7bbb9fd1\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000349\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002203fd985b-4fb8-4111-ba38-5033a254d962\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u0022297d4a0c78414d41aded20bb7bbb9fd1\u0022\u003EBRETT HUDSON (National):\u003C/span\u003E Thank you, Madam Chair. I want to speak on proposals to establish and replace a regional fuel tax (RFT) scheme. But, before I do, I\u2019d just like to respond to some of the comments that Dr Russell made in her contribution. Principally, I\u2019d like to respond to her contribution because it was, in fact, the last cogent and coherent contribution we\u2019ve had from the Government benches.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000350\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002203fd985b-4fb8-4111-ba38-5033a254d962\u0022\u003EDr Russell likes to throw the odd quotation around. Well, I\u2019ve got one for her, given that those members have tried to talk up the good aspects and the positiveness of their stinging hard-working Kiwis in the back pocket through this additional tax, and that is one from Winston Churchill, who remarked that \u201CTrying to tax oneself into prosperity is akin to standing in a bucket and trying to lift oneself up by the handle\u201D. Dr Russell, you might do well to bear that in mind.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000351\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002203fd985b-4fb8-4111-ba38-5033a254d962\u0022\u003EThe other point Dr Russell made, or tried to make, was she claimed this tax is needed. Well, it\u2019s not. It\u2019s not needed at all. The Government has inherited such a strong economy that had it not set about frivolous and poorly targeted spending, such as, for instance, $2.8 billion on free fees to achieve 900 fewer forecast students\u2014if it hadn\u2019t made such frivolous and wasted spending, it had and would have had plenty of cash in the surpluses to undertake projects like those in Auckland. So it certainly isn\u2019t needed, Dr Russell, for any reason other than the actions of this Government.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000352\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002203fd985b-4fb8-4111-ba38-5033a254d962\u0022\u003EI do have a question for Minister Phil Twyford around the proposals to establish or replace RFT schemes, and that question is: why has the Minister chosen to put in legislation that encourages litigation around the formulation of the RFT scheme? I refer particularly to new section 65D(b) in clause 5: \u201Ccannot reasonably be fully funded from sources other than a regional fuel tax within the time frame desired by the council.\u201D And there\u2019s no guidance there. Other than the reasonable test under law, there is no guidance there as to what would be considered as could not be reasonably fully funded.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000353\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002203fd985b-4fb8-4111-ba38-5033a254d962\u0022\u003EFor instance, does the Minister or anyone have in mind a certain debt to income ratio that if the council or the regional council were already at that level, will be considered to have passed the reasonableness test? Or perhaps it could be a total annual interest payable amount against income? So there could be a number of measures, including also\u2014because, through the readings in this House, using the Auckland example, it\u2019s been charged that if Mayor Goff, for instance, had achieved the savings that he pledged when standing for the mayoralty, then the regional fuel tax would be completely unnecessary because those savings would bring in far more per year than the regional fuel tax will. And he\u2019s not set about driving those savings.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000354\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002203fd985b-4fb8-4111-ba38-5033a254d962\u0022\u003ESo there\u2019s no clear guidance here to determine when the \u201Ccannot reasonably be fully funded\u201D criteria will be met. The only way that will be able to be proven is through the courts. So, if a regional council seeks to impose a levy which some active citizens oppose, they will be able to challenge the establishment of that proposal in court. They will even be able to go as far as a judicial review. That will be an enormous cost in time and money, which could be addressed if there was some clearer guidance as to when, and under what conditions, that particular criteria\u2014or even by using a different set of criteria than just simply \u201Ccannot reasonably be fully funded\u201D.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000355\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002203fd985b-4fb8-4111-ba38-5033a254d962\u0022\u003EAlso, in new section 65E in clause 5, is the \u201CProposal for RFT scheme: content requirements\u201D. This is quite troubling because 65E(b)(iii), in particular, actually permits regional councils to put forward a proposal which doesn\u2019t have to specifically meet any of the requirements of the general policy statement (GPS) for land transport. All it has to do is \u201Cexplain how it is expected to contribute to\u201D. There is no measure in there that says that they have to meet three of the criteria or that they have to meet any one of the criteria to a certain extent. There is no particular qualification on how the contribution to the objectives under the GPS will characterise and reach a level where the proposal could be deemed acceptable.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000356\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002203fd985b-4fb8-4111-ba38-5033a254d962\u0022\u003EIt gets worse, and I\u2019m going to call out in just a few seconds as that clock climbs down, because there\u2019s another limb to this as well, around the Minister.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u0022f96cdca1-b63c-4602-b2b3-276f58ebb518\u0022 data-id=\u00227825f009933d4ce986bd728bae132fd7\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000357\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022f96cdca1-b63c-4602-b2b3-276f58ebb518\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u00227825f009933d4ce986bd728bae132fd7\u0022\u003ECHRIS PENK (National\u2014Helensville):\u003C/span\u003E Thank you, Madam Chair. Earlier, we were discussing, among other things, including the bill, the wonderful play of King Lear, and Mr Jones kindly replied in kind. I should\u2019ve added at the end of the previous famous phrase that I quoted\u2014\u201CNothing will come of nothing\u201D\u2014that it\u2019s followed by the words \u201Cspeak again\u201D. So I thank you, Madam Chair, for allowing me to do just that. Perhaps it might also be apposite to note the quote from the same play, \u201CMend your speech a little, lest it mar your fortunes\u201D\u2014and good advice, I think, for the Government benches today.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000358\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022f96cdca1-b63c-4602-b2b3-276f58ebb518\u0022\u003EI note, under the commentary document for the bill\u2014and, indeed, the Minister, who I note is paying careful attention, I\u2019m hoping will be able to assist me with a query in relation to the commentary as compared with the bill itself. So under the heading of \u201CProviding the ability to exclude parts of a region\u201D, the commentary says that \u201CThe bill as introduced would provide that a regional fuel tax implemented in a region must apply to fuel that is sold in the whole of its region.\u201D So far so bad, but then it goes on to say\u2014and I quote\u2014\u201CWe recommend amending new section 65D to provide that councils can request that part of a region be exempt from the RFT in their proposals.\u201D It goes on to give an example of how that might be the case.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000359\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022f96cdca1-b63c-4602-b2b3-276f58ebb518\u0022\u003EIn new section 65D in clause 5, there is no such exemption mechanism. In fact, what we have still, even with the insertions by the majority of the Finance and Expenditure Committee, is actually that \u201CA regional council may prepare a proposal to establish or replace an RFT scheme for the region,\u201D and so on. So, far from being an exemption for part of a region, what we have, in fact, is an ability for a council to provide a proposal to establish, therefore, a new regional fuel tax (RFT) scheme or replace\u2014meaning, of course, a new scheme in replacement of an existing scheme. So, actually, what we have is not at all an exemption as promised in the commentary, but, in fact, an establishment or replacement mechanism. That seems to me somewhat wrong, and whether conspiracy or cock-up, I suppose it will be for the constituents of my electorate, all of Auckland, and, indeed, all of the country who may end up being affected by such legislation to decide. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000360\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022f96cdca1-b63c-4602-b2b3-276f58ebb518\u0022\u003EI wondered if the answer to that question might be found in the surrounding sections\u2014for example new section 65E in clause 5\u2014but that merely sets out the things that must be in a proposal to establish or replace a RFT scheme, and it certainly does nothing to displace the clear wording of new section 65D that talks about such a proposal for a scheme to establish or replace an existing scheme. Similarly, new section 65G in clause 5 talks about how a proposal to vary an RFT scheme might be made. Again, however, we\u2019re not talking about the exemption of part of a region from being in the regional fuel tax scheme. We\u2019re talking about a variation to a scheme, not an exemption\u2014again, as I say, a variation. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000361\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022f96cdca1-b63c-4602-b2b3-276f58ebb518\u0022\u003ESo unless the variation is to vary the amount of the tax from 10c plus GST, or whatever the case may be, to zero cents, whether plus or inclusive of GST, unless that is the case and unless there is a variation to have an amount of zero, then there\u2019s no such exemption as promised in the commentary. So that\u2019s a very serious question that I would ask the Minister to address, because it seems a big oversight. And, as I say, whether conspiracy or cock-up is unclear, but, either way, I think really it should be addressed, because otherwise the intent of the select committee and its at least potentially good-faith recommendation to make such a recommendation will not come to fruition. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000362\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022f96cdca1-b63c-4602-b2b3-276f58ebb518\u0022\u003EAnother point that I\u2019d like to make, leading into a question that I hope will be addressed by the Minister, relates to the definition of \u201Cexempt use\u201D. So an exempt use, talking about situations in which an RFT scheme would have exempt users, as opposed to a whole geographical area within a region, being exempt\u2014[Time expired]\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u002263776108-58dc-4cab-baf1-95282c61d0de\u0022 data-id=\u00228e22dd0fb63543769ecbaa87fe763873\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000363\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002263776108-58dc-4cab-baf1-95282c61d0de\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u00228e22dd0fb63543769ecbaa87fe763873\u0022\u003EHon PAULA BENNETT (Deputy Leader\u2014National):\u003C/span\u003E Thank you, Madam Chair. I\u2019m pleased to be able to stand up and take a call on this really important bill, and important for all the wrong reasons, really. It\u2019s important because of the cost that it\u2019s going to add to Aucklanders in particular, and Aucklanders who actually voted for this Government in the belief that they would actually support them, that they would believe in them, and that they would make the cost of living go down. How disappointed they must be to be seeing this go through the House.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000364\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002263776108-58dc-4cab-baf1-95282c61d0de\u0022\u003EI stand here and I speak for those that live in South Auckland and that are going to be travelling to work at weird hours and can\u2019t catch public transport, because they\u2019re cleaning hotels. They\u2019re the ones that actually get this extra cost put on them\u2014the people that can least afford it. Let\u2019s be quite honest: an extra 15 or 20 bucks a week may not affect the people that are sitting in this Chamber and debating this bill at the moment, but it damned well will affect those that can least afford it, and actually believed they were voting for a Government that would support them and not put unnecessary costs on them. I think that\u2019s a crying shame for them.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000365\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002263776108-58dc-4cab-baf1-95282c61d0de\u0022\u003ESo I do stand up and speak about an amendment that I would like to put forward in my name, and it\u2019s a proposed amendment. It proposes, after new section 65L(2) in clause 5, inserting new subsection 65L(3): \u201CThe Minister of Finance and the responsible Minister must recommend such an order if it becomes clear at any point while an RFT\u201D\u2014the regional fuel tax\u2014\u201Cis in place that the programme could be funded by alternative reasonable means.\u201D\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000366\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002263776108-58dc-4cab-baf1-95282c61d0de\u0022\u003EIt seems incredible to me that we have over a hundred working groups, where everything possible, every rock is being unturned and everything\u2019s being looked at, but they couldn\u2019t actually set one up to see if there are actual expenses that could be taken and actually reduced so that poorer people do not have to pay this tax. I don\u2019t think there\u2019s been alternatives that have been looked at, and that\u2019s what my amendment is actually requesting\u2014that they look at alternative reasonable means and, at the very least, that we put into the bill the means for the Minister and the Minister of Finance to recommend that this actually could be dropped if there are alternative reasonable means that could be done. That\u2019s what the amendment says, and I think that that\u2019s quite common-sense.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000367\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002263776108-58dc-4cab-baf1-95282c61d0de\u0022\u003EYou can\u2019t feel that every rock has been unturned. You can\u2019t feel that they\u2019ve looked at all alternative means for funding of what they want to do, or that the council have truly looked at their expenses\u2014where they\u2019re at and what\u2019s important to Aucklanders\u2014and are actually able to look at what those alternative means might be for funding, and which would make this bill, at the very least, unnecessary. But if it\u2019s going to pass, could we put in this amendment that could fundamentally mean there\u2019s at least an out for the future?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000368\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002263776108-58dc-4cab-baf1-95282c61d0de\u0022\u003EShould it have been means-tested? Should it be actually a tax\u2014if you\u2019re going to put one in\u2014that goes to those that are using the roads the most and not everybody and those people that are less fortunate? I feel for those older people that have looked at alternative reasonable means and know that neither the Government nor the council have looked at those as options for how they might fund it, and the people that are just living on their super and need as much help as they can possibly get.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000369\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002263776108-58dc-4cab-baf1-95282c61d0de\u0022\u003EIs there an amount that this will go to where the Government will look at backtracking, or the council might? Is $3 a litre\u2014well, it sounds too much to me. There has to be an alternative means that we can look at that makes it affordable for people. It\u2019s quite plain there are those that voted for Labour and New Zealand First and they did not do it in the belief that their costs would go up in just a few months and they would have extra tax. They did not believe that that would come from the so-called caring Government. They did not believe that this would be someone that would impose costs on them that they could least afford, and that it would just be thrown at them without the council actually truly looking at alternative means. And let\u2019s be honest\u2014let\u2019s be really honest here\u2014if a false promise of \u201CI will not raise rates above the 2.5 percent.\u201D\u2014had not been made, then this is actually a council that could have rated differently, spent money differently, and made a huge difference so that we didn\u2019t see renters and people that can\u2019t afford it.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u0022071f7800-2755-41b6-83df-07ebaf867ae2\u0022 data-id=\u0022cd8ed94fd9f24f3a8ad8c814217856fd\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000370\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022071f7800-2755-41b6-83df-07ebaf867ae2\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u0022cd8ed94fd9f24f3a8ad8c814217856fd\u0022\u003ETIM VAN DE MOLEN (National\u2014Waikato):\u003C/span\u003E Thank you, Madam Chair. Now look, it\u2019s a pleasure to take another call on this, and, actually, I\u2019d like to address an amendment that has been put forward now in my name. It comes in under clause 5, in new section 65A, and is an additional inclusion after paragraph (e)\u2014so section 65A(f), which would exempt the use of any recreational marine activities. When you consider Auckland\u2014surrounded by water east and west\u2014recreational marine activities are a huge part of everyday New Zealand interaction, activity, and general pastimes. Certainly, as a former scuba-diving instructor, I\u2019ve spent plenty of time out and about on the water, enjoying our recreational opportunities around New Zealand.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000371\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022071f7800-2755-41b6-83df-07ebaf867ae2\u0022\u003EIn Auckland there are so many people that take up these opportunities on a daily basis, and they would be captured under this as well. Where\u2019s the sense in that? What we\u2019re seeing is capturing unexpected consequences\u2014again, through ill-thought-out legislation from this Government\u2014and it is yet another example where they have an idea, don\u2019t think it through in detail, and capture a range of other users through unintended means. This would simply be inappropriate for what they\u2019re looking to address. Recreational marine users\u2014well, how does that impact on road usage? It doesn\u2019t, and what we\u2019re hearing is that this is currently included. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000372\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022071f7800-2755-41b6-83df-07ebaf867ae2\u0022\u003ESo I would encourage the Minister in the chair, the Hon Phil Twyford, to consider supporting this amendment. In fact, I\u2019d like to invite the Minister to take a call, because we haven\u2019t heard from him yet through this entire day\u2019s proceedings, which, quite frankly, I think shows a level of disrespect to the people of Auckland who will be impacted by this particular proposed bill.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000373\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022071f7800-2755-41b6-83df-07ebaf867ae2\u0022\u003EWe also haven\u2019t heard much from the Government in general, when you consider how active they were taking calls on any manner of other pieces of legislation that passed through their committee stage. We had the weapons brokering recently, for example, where there was call after call from the Government. Yes, great\u2014an important area\u2014and yet where are they today on this very important issue that affects so many Aucklanders? There\u2019s absolute silence from the Government.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000374\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022071f7800-2755-41b6-83df-07ebaf867ae2\u0022\u003EWe\u2019ve already heard these strong polls\u2014four polls conducted in May\u2014that actually show there is not support for this. Aucklanders oppose this and the Government can\u2019t even get up and take a call on it. It\u2019s disappointing to see, and I\u2019d encourage the Minister to address the many questions that have been presented from this side of the committee throughout today\u2019s debate\u2014and we haven\u2019t yet had a single answer on any of those\u2014but, in particular, this amendment around the recreational marine activities being exempted from this. That\u2019s something I think is really important for everyday Kiwis who love getting out and about when they\u2019re not at work, making the most of their leisure time\u2014to get out on the water, to take up those opportunities, and to not be stung with additional cost for participating in just that.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000375\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022071f7800-2755-41b6-83df-07ebaf867ae2\u0022\u003EWhat we may see, actually, is that they may look to travel outside the region and bring in fuel. All you have to do is pop over the Bombay Hills into my electorate in the Waikato and you can get fuel 11.5c cheaper. So why wouldn\u2019t they be doing that? And, actually, we may see that with a number of areas. So you look at truck depots, for example, transporting fuel back into their own yards where they are then able to store that fuel for their own purposes around the region. So I think we\u2019ll see that happening, not only for recreational marine use but actually in a number of areas where they\u2019re able to travel outside, secure a tanker-load of fuel, for example, and bring it back in much cheaper. There\u2019s nothing stopping them doing that, actually, unless, of course, we see in the Waikato\u2014like we have seen requests from a number of other areas\u2014a new regional fuel tax being imposed there as well. We\u2019ve already seen that being requested throughout numerous areas in the central North Island\u2014\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000376\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022f44431ef-b505-4e94-9f57-a60b0a569bf7\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u002221083442665a49c3a604af14b19221f1\u0022\u003EHon Shane Jones\u003C/span\u003E: Democracy\u2014democracy.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000377\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022071f7800-2755-41b6-83df-07ebaf867ae2\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022d46872c616714bef8281a7e74d47d6ea\u0022\u003ETIM VAN DE MOLEN\u003C/span\u003E: \u2014and this legislation enables that to happen, and it\u2019s disappointing to see that the alleged first citizen of the regions is not actually standing up to make a better stand to defend those regional areas of the country. All we hear is a lot of talk and not so much action. So I would really encourage the Minister to actually get up to give consideration for a serious issue around the recreational marine exemption under this regional fuel tax.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u002248a02a21-c1ac-4159-8789-485ad614bd01\u0022 data-id=\u0022977aa637b80e44dba506b1a3ecd94349\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000378\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002248a02a21-c1ac-4159-8789-485ad614bd01\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u0022977aa637b80e44dba506b1a3ecd94349\u0022\u003EHon MARK MITCHELL (National\u2014Rodney):\u003C/span\u003E I\u2019m very pleased to have the opportunity to stand and take a call on this, the Land Transport Management (Regional Fuel Tax) Amendment Bill. I\u2019m very pleased that in the Chamber today is the Hon Phil Twyford, because I\u2019m calling on him, when I\u2019ve finished my call, to get up and to speak to the people of Rodney, because last week in the House, in response to questions asked by Jami-Lee Ross, he stood and he made some very clear commitments around Penlink. He linked the regional fuel tax directly to the delivery of Penlink. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000379\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002248a02a21-c1ac-4159-8789-485ad614bd01\u0022\u003EPenlink, for those in the committee who don\u2019t know, is a project that\u2019s been around for a long time. It\u2019s very important to my electorate of Rodney, and especially to the people on the Hibiscus Coast.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000380\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022c2e823af-22b7-4411-8b12-14d7b43680ea\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u002211912cfb535c42ffb9fe57a33e31ce38\u0022\u003EJamie Strange\u003C/span\u003E: But the National Party never funded it. You guys never funded it. You promised it.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000381\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002248a02a21-c1ac-4159-8789-485ad614bd01\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022ed4f609be8614f959dac16b51a3210f0\u0022\u003EHon MARK MITCHELL\u003C/span\u003E: Basically, it\u2019s a road that would have linked Whangapar\u0101oa on the Hibiscus Coast back into the main State highway. And that\u2019s very true\u2014that\u2019s very true that when I came into office in 2011 it was a priority for me. There were two big infrastructure priorities. One was the delivery of the P\u016Bhoi to Warkworth road, which is now under construction and being built. Unfortunately, your Government, Mr Strange, has now cancelled the Warkworth to Te Hana road, which is also, fundamentally, very important to the people of Rodney and the people of Northland.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000382\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002248a02a21-c1ac-4159-8789-485ad614bd01\u0022\u003EThe other project was Penlink. Penlink was a tough one because Penlink was originally seen as a local road, so it was Auckland Transport\u2019s responsibility and the council\u2019s responsibility, and then, eventually, the Government became involved and we said, \u201CYes, let\u2019s look at trying to do this as a partnership.\u201D Eventually, before the 2017 election, I finally got support from the Minister of Transport, the Hon Simon Bridges, and he said, \u201CLet\u2019s go to the campaign. Let\u2019s say that we will go from four lanes to two lanes, but we will build it in the next term. We will create a Crown agency, we\u2019ll raise the capital, we\u2019ll do a public-private partnership, and we\u2019ll deliver the project in the next term.\u201D And I said, \u201CThank you very much.\u201D, because the big thing about Penlink is this: the community is deeply fatigued with hollow promises over the last 20 or 30 years in terms of what\u2019s going to happen with it. So you have to be very careful in terms of how you treat it, not overpromise, and actually manage the expectations realistically.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000383\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002248a02a21-c1ac-4159-8789-485ad614bd01\u0022\u003EYou\u2019ve got to remember that in Rodney we are pretty heavily tolled. When you look at the roading network, currently we have two tolls, and Penlink will give us three. We\u2019re deeply cynical about what\u2019s actually happening at local government level, because if you look at the satisfaction surveys, in Rodney and Pukekohe, on the fringes of the super-city, we feel like we\u2019re missing out and we\u2019re not getting the investment that we need.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000384\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002248a02a21-c1ac-4159-8789-485ad614bd01\u0022\u003EWhen the Penlink announcement was made, I celebrated that. I said great, because we needed it. But what I want the Minister to do\u2014because I am very worried about this project. That\u2019s why I\u2019d like him to get up and outlay for us\u2014because he keeps talking about Penlink and he keeps linking it back to the regional fuel tax\u2014when work on Penlink is going to begin. I want to know when this project is going to begin, because we were very clear as a Government. I campaigned on this. I\u2019m on record as saying, \u201CWe will start Penlink in our next term. We will start the project.\u201D\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000385\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002248a02a21-c1ac-4159-8789-485ad614bd01\u0022\u003EPenlink is one of the few projects in Auckland that\u2019s ready to go. There are no delays on it. The consenting\u2019s done; the route is confirmed. In fact, one part of the Penlink, from the Weiti development, is already under way. I went and visited it about three weeks ago. The private part of the road is actually already started. But what I want the Minister to do, when I sit down, is to take a call and clearly outline for the people of Rodney and explain to them when we can expect to see a start date and a beginning on Penlink. I would be very pleased if he could get up and make that commitment and say that Penlink will start this term: \u201CWe will deliver Penlink for the people of Rodney, for the people of the Hibiscus Coast, this term.\u201D\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000386\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002248a02a21-c1ac-4159-8789-485ad614bd01\u0022\u003EIt\u2019s a critically important piece of infrastructure, and I want him to reassure all of us that you\u2019re not playing politics on this, that you are committed to it, and that the regional fuel tax is going to deliver Penlink. Thank you very much, Madam Chair.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u0022cbc37df2-57ae-4536-94ed-a2e39eecd585\u0022 data-id=\u0022dbf643e67ce84b2ea06a016a9fa0fdf7\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000387\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022cbc37df2-57ae-4536-94ed-a2e39eecd585\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u0022dbf643e67ce84b2ea06a016a9fa0fdf7\u0022\u003EHon PHIL TWYFORD (Minister of Transport):\u003C/span\u003E I give in. I can\u2019t resist any more the loquacious charms of Mark Mitchell. He is the straw that broke the camel\u2019s back, and I feel compelled to respond to his impassioned entreaties about Penlink. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000388\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022cbc37df2-57ae-4536-94ed-a2e39eecd585\u0022\u003EI feel really sad that we never got to see the fourth term of the last National Government, because they were going to do so much. The fourth-term National Government\u2014they were going to build Penlink, they were going to solve the housing crisis, they were going to do so much. They were going to do so much and, sadly\u2014sadly\u2014we\u2019ll never get to see all the wonderful things that were going to happen.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000389\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022cbc37df2-57ae-4536-94ed-a2e39eecd585\u0022\u003EIn fact, Penlink is a very, very good example of this, what I would call, \u201Cfourth-term National-itis\u201D, because after nine years\u2014nine years of talking about Penlink, of promising that they were going to build Penlink\u2014we never saw a scrap of action.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000390\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022f44431ef-b505-4e94-9f57-a60b0a569bf7\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022b6cf8f863cb240e3bc15ae067fc9880d\u0022\u003EHon Shane Jones\u003C/span\u003E: Not a scrap.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000391\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022cbc37df2-57ae-4536-94ed-a2e39eecd585\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022aa5959fc07f8455ea893c0897ec1ea3b\u0022\u003EHon PHIL TWYFORD\u003C/span\u003E: Not a scrap. Not a skerrick of action on Penlink after nine years in Government. In fact, the same applies to Mill Road, another roading project that the National Government loved to wax lyrical about. But in nine years, did we see any action on Mill Road? Not a skerrick of action on Mill Road, and yet, now they\u2019re in Opposition, they continue to warble on about these roading projects.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000392\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022cbc37df2-57ae-4536-94ed-a2e39eecd585\u0022\u003EBut, Mr Mitchell, Mill Road and Penlink are listed in the schedule of projects that Auckland Council has provided that is required under this bill. Under this regional fuel tax bill, Auckland Council has to come up with a list of projects. They have to come up with capital projects that are designated in a list of projects that are named specifically. Auckland Council just can\u2019t take the money that\u2019s generated by this regional fuel tax and say, \u201COh, we\u2019re going to spend it on some vague list of initiatives.\u201D No, they have to come up with a precise list of named projects, and Mill Road and Penlink are included in this.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000393\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022cbc37df2-57ae-4536-94ed-a2e39eecd585\u0022\u003ESo this Government in nine months has done more on Mill Road and Penlink than the former Government did in nine years. We\u2019ve actually come up with a fully funded plan\u2014a $28 billion fully funded plan\u2014that includes the projects that they talked about for nine years. So, Mr Mitchell, that\u2019s our plan. Our plan is to build Penlink and Mill Road, and we have fully funded it\u2014something that you had nine years to do, and never did.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000394\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022cbc37df2-57ae-4536-94ed-a2e39eecd585\u0022\u003EI also want to correct the numerous claims that were made by Opposition members about light rail. They love to pejoratively describe it as a tram set. They love to say that it\u2019s a trolley set. Not a cent of the regional fuel tax money will be spent on the light rail projects, but that didn\u2019t stop them. That didn\u2019t stop them with their campaign of misinformation.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000395\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022cbc37df2-57ae-4536-94ed-a2e39eecd585\u0022\u003EI also want to reply to the Parliament\u2019s great devotee of King Lear\u2014Chris Penk of Helensville\u2014who claimed there was no guarantee of specific projects. Au contraire, this legislation requires a specific register of projects. He\u2019s absolutely wrong. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000396\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022f96cdca1-b63c-4602-b2b3-276f58ebb518\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u002276a41a4cbe394afa8bc490698922e439\u0022\u003EChris Penk\u003C/span\u003E: What\u2019s our project?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000397\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022cbc37df2-57ae-4536-94ed-a2e39eecd585\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022caf9542da7e7452fb9fd66c0bc995c12\u0022\u003EHon PHIL TWYFORD\u003C/span\u003E: He\u2019s absolutely wrong, and, in fact, if that member will just hold his breath, his electorate will be a massive beneficiary of the $28 billion transport plan. It\u2019s fully funded, not like the transport plan that the former Government put up, that they left with a $9 billion hole\u2014a fiscal hole of $9 billion.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000398\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022cbc37df2-57ae-4536-94ed-a2e39eecd585\u0022\u003ENow, Mr Penk, that\u2019s not an invented fiscal hole. That\u2019s not a fiscal hole invented for electoral purposes, like the one that we saw from the former National Government. It\u2019s a real fiscal hole\u2014$9 billion. Watch my lips: $9 billion. This Government, within seven months of taking office, landed for the first time in history a 10-year, fully funded $28 billion plan, thank you very much.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000399\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022cbc37df2-57ae-4536-94ed-a2e39eecd585\u0022\u003EI want to mention the question of rebates, which one or two Opposition members have mentioned. I wanted to say to the members of the Finance and Expenditure Committee, who discussed the question of rebates for people who, for example, are not using the fuel that\u2019s purchased that\u2019s covered by the regional fuel tax on-road in Auckland\u2014our position on this is that the bill should reflect the rebate mechanisms that are currently in play for the fuel excise duty. But we did listen to the submissions that were made by a number of people who came along to the select committee, including Auckland Council, who argued for a more expansive and a fairer system for dealing with rebates in relation to the regional fuel tax.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000400\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022cbc37df2-57ae-4536-94ed-a2e39eecd585\u0022\u003EI\u2019m happy to let the members on both sides of the House know that I\u2019ve commissioned some work by the Ministry of Transport on how we can reform the rebate system, not only for the regional fuel tax but for the fuel excise duty. My intention is that we\u2019ll have that work done. We acknowledge that the current rebate system is not fair. It\u2019s archaic, it was put in place many decades ago and it\u2019s time to reform it. We will bring back reforms to this House, not only for the fuel excise duty, but also for the regional fuel tax.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000401\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022cbc37df2-57ae-4536-94ed-a2e39eecd585\u0022\u003EI want to comment on the crocodile tears that were being shed by the bucket by the Hon Paula Bennett, who was expressing great emotion for people who would be disadvantaged by this regional fuel tax. We have never denied that the regional fuel tax is a regressive tax\u2014it is\u2014but, actually, the effects of congestion on low-income people are far more regressive and far more damaging to their standard of living. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000402\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022cbc37df2-57ae-4536-94ed-a2e39eecd585\u0022\u003EThis is a Government that is determined, finally\u2014after nine years of neglect and drift, our Government is committed to doing something about the parlous state of Auckland\u2019s transport system. It\u2019s fine for the Opposition members to be chipping away, but they had nine years while congestion got worse every single year\u2014every single year\u2014to the point at which Auckland is losing $1.3 billion a year in lost productivity. The drift and neglect from that Government over nine years has held back the prosperity and the growth of our country\u2019s biggest city. That\u2019s why we\u2019re committed to doing something about it. That\u2019s why we\u2019ve landed a $28 billion transport plan.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000403\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022cbc37df2-57ae-4536-94ed-a2e39eecd585\u0022\u003EThis regional fuel tax will contribute $1.5 billion in revenue directly into that $28 billion plan. It will free up another approximately $3 billion in subsidies. It will leverage, in total, nearly $4.5 billion for this transport plan.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000404\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022cbc37df2-57ae-4536-94ed-a2e39eecd585\u0022\u003EI want to be very clear about this: we take seriously the regressive nature of this tax. It will cost the average household, according to the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment, along with the projected increase of three consecutive increases of 3c on fuel excise duty\u2014the fuel excise duty and the regional fuel tax will cost the average household approximately $5 a week. This Government has already, through our Families Package, put $75 a week\u2014$75 a week\u2014into the budgets of 384,000 low and middle income households. So $5 a week from petrol excise and fuel in the regional fuel tax; $75 a week through the Families Package for low and middle income families\u2014consider the scale difference in those two things.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000405\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022cbc37df2-57ae-4536-94ed-a2e39eecd585\u0022\u003EFinally, I want to comment about Nikki Kaye\u2019s Supplementary Order Paper 27, which aims to exempt both Great Barrier Island and Waiheke from the regional fuel tax\u2014that\u2019s her proposal. But we\u2019ve considered that. The select committee considered it, we heard submitters on it, and we\u2019ve given this issue very serious consideration.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u0022ed2d10c1-43b7-41d9-9f5c-0c313f70e625\u0022 data-id=\u00226d809a53b63848c1becd5dcab45fe6f2\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000406\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022ed2d10c1-43b7-41d9-9f5c-0c313f70e625\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u00226d809a53b63848c1becd5dcab45fe6f2\u0022\u003EHon NIKKI KAYE (National\u2014Auckland Central):\u003C/span\u003E Look, I\u2019m very pleased to take another call. Firstly, can I just say it is very difficult to get a lecture around fiscal holes when we hear from people like Chris Hipkins\u2014and I will relate it to transport\u2014that their definition of a fiscal hole is paying for the rest of the Canterbury schools rebuild or accounting for growth. We know that just like in education, in the area of transport this is a very manipulative Government in terms of the figures.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000407\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022ed2d10c1-43b7-41d9-9f5c-0c313f70e625\u0022\u003EI want to give the Minister a little bit of a history lesson. If we actually look at the overall figures in terms of the last National Government and transport, it puts this issue into perspective. We are talking about a tax for Aucklanders of $150 million. Under National, we put through the Auckland governance reform because people like myself in central Auckland couldn\u2019t even get a bus route across the city, and that was opposed by the Labour Government at the time. In the time that we were in Government, the kinds of infrastructure projects that were progressed in the area of transport included $1 billion in terms of the electrification of rail, $340 million in terms of Victoria Park Tunnel, and billions of dollars into the central rail link. So to get a lecture in this committee about transport investment, given the fact that we were retrofitting Auckland for generations in areas like Waterview, the Victoria Park Tunnel, the central rail link, and the electrification of rail, is a little bit rich. Anyone who is across the numbers in terms of Auckland transport knows the scale of the projects that we invested and knows that this pales in comparison.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000408\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022ed2d10c1-43b7-41d9-9f5c-0c313f70e625\u0022\u003EThe second point I want to make is actually the same point that a number of members across this committee have continually made: do we accept that there is a gap in terms of Auckland transport funding? But what is the best way to bridge that gap? Well, figures that we\u2019ve got in our minority view indicate that if the Auckland Council bothered to run a fine ruler over their expenditure at the moment, with a 4 percent saving\u2014which is minimal in the scheme of what every other community provider and private sector organisation is able to do\u2014then they would be able to find that $150 million. So not only do we oppose it on the grounds that this pales in comparison in the scale of investment that central government and local government provide in transport but also the Auckland Council has not done the work to be able to provide what is a small level of saving to be able to deliver these transport projects.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000409\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022ed2d10c1-43b7-41d9-9f5c-0c313f70e625\u0022\u003EThe next reason why we oppose it is that it does hurt some of our most disadvantaged Aucklanders, but also it\u2019s coming to a town near you\u20142021, in this bill. They could\u2014because the legislation will be enacted\u2014bring it in earlier. But what it means\u2014and Sam Warburton, I understand, presented at the Finance and Expenditure Committee around its impact in terms of solo parents and M\u0101ori\u2014is it will have an impact on disadvantaged New Zealanders because of the cost of living in terms of food and in terms of fuel.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000410\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022ed2d10c1-43b7-41d9-9f5c-0c313f70e625\u0022\u003ESo we know that this is a bad bill. We on this side of the House don\u2019t support it, for multiple reasons, because the Auckland Council hasn\u2019t done their work. We have a very good track record, in the billions in terms of transport. But also let\u2019s be clear: the Prime Minister went into this election with a very firm commitment to no new taxes. We now know that like many other things in this Government, whatever they go out and say, the spin is twice as bad. So when they talked about no new taxes, what they actually meant was there will be additional taxes but no new ones that you haven\u2019t thought of. What we know is that between the fuel tax, the tourism tax, and cutting our tax cuts that we\u2019d already put in place\u2014as the leader has already highlighted today\u2014there are huge additional costs of living as a result of this Labour Government.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000411\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022ed2d10c1-43b7-41d9-9f5c-0c313f70e625\u0022\u003EIf members opposite think that they are going to get away with that, because as I walk through airports, as I go through communities in Auckland, and as I now got through communities across New Zealand, the cost of living already, within a six-month period of this Labour Government\u2014I want to make a prediction. If they are out in 2020, they should remember this legislation, because it is ultimately the bread and butter things that affect people. Fuel in Auckland is having a terrible effect already with some of the increases, like in communities\u2014[Time expired]\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u0022cbc37df2-57ae-4536-94ed-a2e39eecd585\u0022 data-id=\u002265689a76be9344eca6c247f297ea7e7a\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000412\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022cbc37df2-57ae-4536-94ed-a2e39eecd585\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u002265689a76be9344eca6c247f297ea7e7a\u0022\u003EHon PHIL TWYFORD (Minister of Transport):\u003C/span\u003E Thank you, Mr Chairman. We\u2019re hearing a lot of repetition from the Opposition benches, but in the remaining moments of this debate, there\u2019s a few extra points that I think deserve a response. Nikki Kaye\u2019s rhetorical points from the St Cuthbert\u2019s high school debating society\u2014the claim, I think, that\u2014\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000413\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022ed2d10c1-43b7-41d9-9f5c-0c313f70e625\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u00226a033a16a52a47fa9b53ab641865199d\u0022\u003EHon Nikki Kaye\u003C/span\u003E: I raise a point of order, Mr Chairperson. I\u2019d just like the Minister to clarify that. Why is he associating me with a particular school?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000414\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022cbc37df2-57ae-4536-94ed-a2e39eecd585\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u00229b7a9757da5741a9b3d4161caf59841a\u0022\u003EHon PHIL TWYFORD\u003C/span\u003E: Did I get the school wrong?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000415\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022a434482b-7ac1-4862-9ce7-13e63289dee3\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022a07ed886dd5c4ec39b8659c5d8c64025\u0022\u003ECHAIRPERSON (Adrian Rurawhe)\u003C/span\u003E: OK, let\u2019s all calm down. A couple of things. Just to the Minister, the Chair is the sole judge on relevancy and on when I\u2019m going to accept a closure motion. The other issue is that members should refer to other members by their correct title and name, and if we want to have a good debate, that should be referred to.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000416\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022cbc37df2-57ae-4536-94ed-a2e39eecd585\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u00226aee1a7790ed4f3883433a0b3c80da45\u0022\u003EHon PHIL TWYFORD\u003C/span\u003E: So the rhetorical claim from the member Nikki Kaye that this is a broken promise in terms of no new taxes, we campaigned\u2014Labour campaigned\u2014on the regional fuel tax. We are keeping our promise. We are keeping our promise by bringing this bill to the House. I\u2019ll tell you the other promise we\u2019re keeping: we are going to fix Auckland\u2019s transport problems\u2014something that the National Government had nine years to do, and presided over a steady decline.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000417\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022cbc37df2-57ae-4536-94ed-a2e39eecd585\u0022\u003ESo I want to come back to Nikki Kaye\u2019s Supplementary Order Paper (SOP) 27 to exclude Great Barrier Island and Waiheke Island. We are not going to support that SOP, and the reason is this: we\u2019ve already heard from Auckland Council their proposal\u2014actually within the terms of this bill\u2014to align the benefits of the people who are going to get the benefit of this bill with the people who are going to contribute through the regional fuel tax, and Auckland Council proposes to exclude the people of Great Barrier Island.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000418\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022cbc37df2-57ae-4536-94ed-a2e39eecd585\u0022\u003EThey do not propose to exclude the people of Waiheke Island, and the reason is this: a significant number of people from Waiheke Island travel to the city with some regularity, and not only do they use the ferry service\u2014including the ferry terminal that will be upgraded and expanded with funding generated through the regional fuel tax\u2014but when they commute to Auckland City, they use the transport system in Auckland City. So we\u2019re not proposing to support Nikki Kaye\u2019s SOP on this point, and we think it\u2019s much better, in fact, to have a system where, basically, the council makes its own decision on the geographical scope of any exclusion, not one that\u2019s done through the primary legislation, which would be a blunt instrument.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000419\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022cbc37df2-57ae-4536-94ed-a2e39eecd585\u0022\u003EA number of members from the Opposition side have argued that road pricing would be a better way to raise revenue than a regional fuel tax. We agree. We agree with that point. We agree with Sam Warburton when he makes that argument. But, actually, all of the informed analysis is that a serious system of road pricing in Auckland, such as variable price tolling on the motorway network and congestion charging, is a number of years away\u2014at least six or seven or eight years away, or possibly even a decade.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000420\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022cbc37df2-57ae-4536-94ed-a2e39eecd585\u0022\u003ENow road pricing will actually offer us significant benefits in terms of demand management and it\u2019s also potentially a source of revenue to make further investments in the transport system, and those are powerful reasons why we need road pricing. The work is under way\u2014in fact, it started under the Hon Simon Bridges when he was the transport Minister. We\u2019re continuing it, but it\u2019s not ready yet, and we are not prepared to sit around and wait for six, seven years, or even a decade while that work on road pricing reaches its conclusion.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000421\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022cbc37df2-57ae-4536-94ed-a2e39eecd585\u0022\u003EWe have to make serious investments now in Auckland\u2019s transport system, and the fact that none of the Opposition members have acknowledged today is that it is only fair for Aucklanders to pay a little bit of extra for the investment that\u2019s needed to get ahead of very high rates of growth in Auckland. Unless we have something like the regional fuel tax, people all around regional New Zealand\u2014in Palmerston North and Balclutha; you name it\u2014will end up paying the full costs of Auckland\u2019s growth, and that\u2019s not fair to them. So while the National Party are going around the country like Johnny Appleseed promising new expressway projects, and then they come to this House and promise to repeal the regional fuel tax, they have to answer the question: how are they going to pay for the transport projects that they\u2019ve promised? They\u2019re asking regional New Zealand to pay more for Auckland\u2019s transport needs, and yet they claim to be the great defenders of regional New Zealand.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000422\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022cbc37df2-57ae-4536-94ed-a2e39eecd585\u0022\u003EI also want to reply to the point that\u2019s been made on several occasions so far\u2014the idea that Auckland Council should be asked to tighten its belt to cut costs, and that if Auckland Council were to do that, then, somehow, this regional fuel tax wouldn\u2019t be needed. Well, the folly of that argument is so easily exposed by the fact that the increase in Auckland Council\u2019s administration expenditure is approximately 2 percent per year over the last decade. The increase in capital expenditure for infrastructure, principally transport infrastructure, has increased by an average of 7 percent per year over the last decade. The increase in Auckland Council\u2019s spending is because they\u2019re spending more on transport infrastructure. The National Party want Auckland Council to cut spending on transport so they can spend more on transport. It is an absolutely absurd argument, and if the members on the Opposition benches stopped for a moment and thought about it, they would stop making that argument.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000423\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022cbc37df2-57ae-4536-94ed-a2e39eecd585\u0022\u003EWill it spread to other regions? This is the other bit of kind of scaremongering that we\u2019ve seen\u2014that the regional fuel tax that this bill requires can only be used to allow Auckland Council to put in place a regional fuel tax between now and January 2021. The fear is that this will somehow spread like a virus to other parts of New Zealand. Well, how lacking in trust the National Party are for communities all around this country. How lacking in faith they are in the democratic process, because they don\u2019t want communities around New Zealand to have the choice to say \u201CWe want to invest extra in our region for reasons of economic development, to give our people access to the things that they need like employment and education.\u201D to make up for the years of drift and neglect under the former National Government. They don\u2019t trust the people of New Zealand, the communities, or the democratically elected representatives, so they don\u2019t want people to have the opportunity to opt for a bit of extra revenue so that they can exercise some local autonomy in their communities. That is how little faith the National Party has in local communities around this country.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u0022163d0b68-eb0e-4094-9bed-99e184f063e1\u0022 data-id=\u00226883a244cf8f4d7f81ea1b1d02a84b42\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000424\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022163d0b68-eb0e-4094-9bed-99e184f063e1\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u00226883a244cf8f4d7f81ea1b1d02a84b42\u0022\u003EJAMI-LEE ROSS (National\u2014Botany):\u003C/span\u003E Thank you, Mr Chair. I\u2019m glad I get to respond to Phil Twyford, because Phil Twyford, the man who has single-handedly seen support for the regional fuel tax plummet in his time as Minister of Transport, is standing up in this House trying to defend the indefensible. I\u2019ve heard Labour members opposite saying that there\u2019s all this overwhelming support for a regional fuel tax. Well, when Phil Twyford first had the Auckland Council do a poll on a regional fuel tax, there was 52 percent support for the regional fuel tax. What\u2019s it at now? The same company, Colmar Brunton, has done a poll. There\u2019s 58 percent opposed to a regional fuel tax. Far from selling this issue to the public, he\u2019s actually lost support and is losing support for the ideas he\u2019s putting forward. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000425\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022163d0b68-eb0e-4094-9bed-99e184f063e1\u0022\u003EI just want to say the Hon Nikki Kaye has done the right thing in putting forward Supplementary Order Paper (SOP) 27 to try and exempt the part of Auckland that is paying overwhelmingly higher fuel taxes and fuel prices already. She\u2019s a member of Parliament that cares about her local area and is trying to find a way to help them through. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000426\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022163d0b68-eb0e-4094-9bed-99e184f063e1\u0022\u003EPhil Twyford says, \u201CRely on us\u2014rely on us. We have got these regulation-making powers.\u201D Phil Twyford thinks we should just leave everything to him to exempt areas and ensure that they don\u2019t have to pay a regional fuel tax because he\u2019ll do it by way of regulation. He also thinks it should be left to the councils to decide in which part of the areas regional fuel taxes should be paid. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000427\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022163d0b68-eb0e-4094-9bed-99e184f063e1\u0022\u003EThe very reason why Nikki Kaye has put forward that SOP is because on Waiheke, on Great Barrier Island, they\u2019re probably going to see the least benefit from a regional fuel tax in Auckland, but their taxes and their prices are already higher than anyone else in the country. Of course people on Waiheke and Great Barrier Island have been asking her, as a member of Parliament, to ensure they\u2019re exempt. That\u2019s why this House should be supporting that SOP, and not leaving it to Phil Twyford and regulation-making powers. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000428\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022163d0b68-eb0e-4094-9bed-99e184f063e1\u0022\u003EBut if we come to regulation-making powers\u2014and I do note that Chris Penk has an amendment on one of the regulation-making powers\u2014Phil Twyford takes exception to us saying that they have broken promises on this. Sure, they might have campaigned on a regional fuel tax. They also campaigned on no new taxes. What they didn\u2019t campaign on was Phil Twyford and this Government, through Ministers, having regulation-making powers under the legislation to put up regional fuel taxes as high as they want. That\u2019s something that\u2019s a broken promise. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000429\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022163d0b68-eb0e-4094-9bed-99e184f063e1\u0022\u003EThey may have set a regional fuel tax of 10c a litre, but under new section 65ZD, \u201CChange to maximum rate of regional fuel tax\u201D, in clause 5, it says right there that by Order in Council, the Governor-General\u2014recommended by Phil Twyford\u2014can put a regional fuel tax as high as he wants. It turns out that that\u2019s a legislative instrument. It can come back to the House. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000430\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022163d0b68-eb0e-4094-9bed-99e184f063e1\u0022\u003EWe say that should come back to the House on an annual basis, because the very problem with regulation-making powers and the very problem with allowing things to be decided, such as the maximum rate of taxation, is that we essentially will have a situation where a Minister of the Crown, on his own volition\u2014all by himself\u2014will be able to go in and implement a higher set of taxation than was already in the legislation. It\u2019s a \u201CHenry VIII\u201D power. It means Phil Twyford\u2014who, I am sure, is embarrassed that this was exposed in this bill\u2014will have the power to put up taxes around the country at his own behest whenever he wants, without any sort of parliamentary review that we\u2019d normally have. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000431\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022163d0b68-eb0e-4094-9bed-99e184f063e1\u0022\u003EIf we were to have taxes around the country, normal income taxes to be increased\u2014when the Government comes back with their Tax Working Group and they come up with a whole lot of new taxes, that\u2019ll come before the Parliament. That\u2019ll be voted on. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000432\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022163d0b68-eb0e-4094-9bed-99e184f063e1\u0022\u003EThis is a dangerous power. It\u2019s a power that gives the Minister the ability to put up tax rates all by himself\u2014no parliamentary scrutiny, no ability to for a select committee look at it, and no ability for New Zealanders to submit on it. All by himself\u2014the power to put up taxes can go ahead. I say that\u2019s a power that shouldn\u2019t be in this bill, but I\u2019ve also said that if there are powers in this bill that are going to go through, we\u2019re going to try and blunt those dangerous instruments, and Chris Penk has that particular type of change in front of him. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000433\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022163d0b68-eb0e-4094-9bed-99e184f063e1\u0022\u003EThere\u2019s also a range of other areas that I think we should be legislating for. The Minister and his officials have said in the select committee that they\u2019re going to be coming back with a whole range of regulations that\u2019ll exempt certain areas. Well, we\u2019ve got a whole range of amendments that put in place actual legislative exemptions for those areas. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000434\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022163d0b68-eb0e-4094-9bed-99e184f063e1\u0022\u003EWe had submissions, for example, from people in the agricultural area and in the horticultural area. We had submissions from people\u2014and there\u2019s an amendment in my name, an amendment that I\u2019ve put forward because we had submissions about recreational aircraft use. The way it currently sits in the legislation is that if there is an aircraft that uses fuel that does not have gas\u2014not Jet A-1. If it uses fuel that is the normal type of fuel that goes into motor vehicles\u2014[Time expired]\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u0022a1f7bbd1-b6ae-41c0-963b-dbe1251f5540\u0022 data-id=\u00227590b68b015d460ca560bb9f549d54c9\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000435\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022a1f7bbd1-b6ae-41c0-963b-dbe1251f5540\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u00227590b68b015d460ca560bb9f549d54c9\u0022\u003EKIERAN McANULTY (Junior Whip\u2014Labour):\u003C/span\u003E I move, That the question be now put.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u0022695678cf-542a-4616-9e0a-86990caec192\u0022 data-id=\u0022551b9447bfeb42a2a5057a2602a70614\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000436\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022695678cf-542a-4616-9e0a-86990caec192\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u0022551b9447bfeb42a2a5057a2602a70614\u0022\u003EHon ALFRED NGARO (National):\u003C/span\u003E Thank you, Mr Chair. There\u2019s been a number of quotes from King Lear, and here\u2019s one of my favourite ones \u201CWhen we are born, we cry that we are come to this great stage of fools\u201D, and that\u2019s where we\u2019ve come to. It is a great stage of fools, where it is foolishness of all the things that have been talked about around the regional fuel tax (RFT).\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000437\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022695678cf-542a-4616-9e0a-86990caec192\u0022\u003EBut we\u2019re here in this debate to talk about the things that are important, and, Mr Chair, as you rightly said, you are the sole adjudicator about issues of the debate. I want to introduce a new issue of debate. It\u2019s in this part, in Part 1, and, in particular, in regards to Part 1, new section 65L, which talks about the early termination of RFT schemes. In particular, this portion of the bill talks about the fact that when the RFT scheme has been applied for and when an implementation is being initiated, are there moments in which there should be, by Order in Council, an early termination. It talks about the fact that in section 65L(1) the proposal of a regional fuel tax, under the Minister of Finance and the responsible Minister\u2014those are the two Ministers that are to be responsible. So what I\u2019m proposing in my amendment to clause 5 is to include \u201CAfter new section 65L(2) insert new 65L(3) The Minister of Finance and the responsible Minister must recommend such an order if average fuel prices in the country reach $3 a litre.\u201D\u2014$3 a litre. It\u2019s a pragmatic and it\u2019s a practical sense of this.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000438\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022695678cf-542a-4616-9e0a-86990caec192\u0022\u003EThere was a time when no one even thought that it would get to a point where fuel prices would even reach $2.20 or $2.30, and yet now we\u2019ve reached that. It\u2019s at the point where people have said that the highest fuel prices that we have seen now for 91 octane fuel is actually at the price of $2.20 or $2.30. In fact, in my local gas station, which I\u2019m pretty sure the Minister of Transport goes past\u2014mind you, he\u2019s often probably in a ministerial vehicle. But I wonder whether he knows what the cost of the price at the Z Energy station on Te Atat\u016B Road is? He may not know, because he probably doesn\u2019t look at that. It\u2019s actually $2.14 is what it is at present. It\u2019s one of the cheapest ones in Auckland, but it\u2019s still at a point where people are still struggling in our communities.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000439\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022695678cf-542a-4616-9e0a-86990caec192\u0022\u003ESo when we say in this clause why is it that $3 would make a difference to the impact on our community\u2014why is it that it should be included in new section 65L as an early termination clause for the power of an Order in Council? Well, let\u2019s take some of the comments that come from people like Ken Shirley, who\u2019s the Road Transport Forum CEO. Here\u2019s what he said: \u201CI hate to be a merchant of doom, but it is not inconceivable that we could reach $3 a litre\u201D. If we do, here is the impact on our communities: it\u2019s our regional and our rural communities, it\u2019s our public transport, but, more importantly, it will be the impact on our low-income families.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000440\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022695678cf-542a-4616-9e0a-86990caec192\u0022\u003EI put this in because this is critically important for us to consider why $3 should be a threshold in which an Order in Council should then enact itself for an early termination, because it\u2019s the only area in which there are geopolitical conditions which we are not in charge of. There was a time when barrels of oil were down as low as $50 a barrel. It got up as high as $193 a barrel. We don\u2019t know where that will go. There are instabilities offshore in areas like Iran and so forth, so we are not in control of that. But what we are in control of and what this Government can be in control of is an early termination to an RFT\u2014a regional fuel tax scheme. What it can do within its power is to be able to terminate that scheme if the impact on that is to the communities in which it serves. Three dollars is at a point, in fact, we have to say, that does have an impact on our communities.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000441\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022695678cf-542a-4616-9e0a-86990caec192\u0022\u003ELet\u2019s take this from the AA petrol prices\u2019 spokesperson, Mark Stockdale, and here\u2019s what he says: \u201CThe regional fuel tax, to councils looking to raise revenue while avoiding rates, is something that will appeal to them.\u201D But, again, the impact that he and others are commenting on is that when it gets to a point when it is at $3 a litre, then the only way that it can be enacted in which there can be some relief to those communities is where there is an inclusion inside the bill, hence the reason why my amendment is a pragmatic and a practical application which I seek to introduce. I hope that the Minister will take time to reflect on this and think about this\u2014hence the reason why the committee of the whole House is to look at areas like this.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000442\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022695678cf-542a-4616-9e0a-86990caec192\u0022\u003ESo I submit this amendment. I think it\u2019s a pragmatic and practical way of saying that when it gets to a threshold where it is unbearable for the communities whom we are wanting to serve, the Government has the means and a tool in order to relieve that suffering, that difficulty, and that struggle in our communities.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u0022c2e823af-22b7-4411-8b12-14d7b43680ea\u0022 data-id=\u00222c3c8b44612c477aa0c4106839b2e0d7\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000443\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022c2e823af-22b7-4411-8b12-14d7b43680ea\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u00222c3c8b44612c477aa0c4106839b2e0d7\u0022\u003EJAMIE STRANGE (Labour):\u003C/span\u003E I move, That the question be now put.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u00220c51564f-6c6e-45cc-adab-f15b6c831fce\u0022 data-id=\u00224b0794c92ab746508a84b1f2bba8658f\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000444\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00220c51564f-6c6e-45cc-adab-f15b6c831fce\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u00224b0794c92ab746508a84b1f2bba8658f\u0022\u003ELAWRENCE YULE (National\u2014Tukituki):\u003C/span\u003E Mr Chair, thank you for the opportunity to speak to this bill, and I specifically want to speak to the first part. I specifically want to speak to an amendment that I\u2019ve tabled which seeks to amend the definitions in new section 65A, in clause 5, which is specifically around exemptions. While I acknowledge and thank the Minister of Transport for at least taking a couple of calls on this debate to highlight the fact that a lot of the exemptions in the current rules are not clear, I, particularly in my own role as National\u2019s spokesperson on horticulture, wish to support my industry and the people who have made submissions around exemptions to the regional fuel tax.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000445\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00220c51564f-6c6e-45cc-adab-f15b6c831fce\u0022\u003EWhile I acknowledge that the Minister has said that regional fuel taxes and the exemption process and the regional excise duty are all up for grabs, that is of very little comfort to the people I represent and the people that came to the Finance and Expenditure Committee. In fact, Horticulture New Zealand submitted that those elements of the bill that are yet to be described in Order in Council are particularly worrying for them, and by the comments of the Minister today, they have no actual extra support or understanding of what it has meant because it\u2019s all going to be done by regulation, and for them that is cold comfort.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000446\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00220c51564f-6c6e-45cc-adab-f15b6c831fce\u0022\u003EHorticulture New Zealand has proposed that the Ministry of Transport\u2019s exempt use for agricultural vehicles be used across horticultural vehicles as well, and the bill as it\u2019s written proposes that the rebate mechanism that\u2019s already used for the fuel excise duty is used. But, as the Minister has acknowledged, it doesn\u2019t actually work that well. It is notoriously complicated, and the horticultural industry is not satisfied with the concessions, if you like, from the Minister that have been given today or what was written in the bill. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000447\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00220c51564f-6c6e-45cc-adab-f15b6c831fce\u0022\u003EThere are exemptions for non - road-based uses under the road-user charges, and Horticulture New Zealand is simply asking that those same exemptions apply. The amendment simply says that after paragraph (e) there is a new paragraph (f) which says \u201Cany use for commercial horticultural activities\u201D. If you think about vehicles, all around New Zealand, the horticultural use that goes between one orchard and another, between one farm and another\u2014actually, those are not vehicles that should really be paying fuel excise tax, road-user tax, or certainly not a regional fuel tax that actually would support at the moment a regional fuel tax in Auckland.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000448\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00220c51564f-6c6e-45cc-adab-f15b6c831fce\u0022\u003EI say this because while this bill is written to specifically deal with an issue in Auckland currently, it also allows other parts of New Zealand to deal with the same issues should they wish, and that is a significant imposition on cost and people, and in my humble opinion I\u2019m not sure that\u2019s been thoroughly worked out. So when an industry comes to me and has written emails to me and asks me to advocate on their behalf, I am of course going to do that because I completely support them. So while the Minister stood up in this Chamber and, in the first of his two or three comments this afternoon, said that they\u2019re going to look at something, why would members of this Parliament, let alone New Zealand, say we\u2019re going to come to it, and it will be right in the end?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000449\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00220c51564f-6c6e-45cc-adab-f15b6c831fce\u0022\u003EThe people I represent in my region did not hear the Labour Government\u2014or the Labour Party at the time, in the election campaign\u2014advocating for a new tax, a regional fuel tax, that would be able to be put in other parts of New Zealand. Sure, we heard about Auckland, and if the Government was true to its word, it would have simply allowed this bill to relate to Auckland. What I\u2019m concerned about, and the people I represent, is that, actually, it\u2019s allowed to go across the rest of New Zealand. For the Minister to give us some comfort that somehow we are going to look at fuel excise duties, road-user charges, and the regional fuel tax\u2014because we acknowledge it\u2019s not fair\u2014is actually not good enough when this legislation has the ability to go right across New Zealand from 2021.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000450\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00220c51564f-6c6e-45cc-adab-f15b6c831fce\u0022\u003ESo, in the first instance, I think the Minister has short-changed the people of New Zealand in terms of the exemption process, and I ask him to consider a genuine desire and put in new paragraph (f), as listed in my amendment.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u0022bf71a65e-c9f0-4856-902f-1a15c4274e94\u0022 data-id=\u00223e5777b3dd884d3883845d572f8a9da0\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000451\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022bf71a65e-c9f0-4856-902f-1a15c4274e94\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u00223e5777b3dd884d3883845d572f8a9da0\u0022\u003EMARK PATTERSON (NZ First):\u003C/span\u003E I move, That the question be now put.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u0022dc6c0f88-e781-476d-bca1-d1bf9b69302b\u0022 data-id=\u0022b754a5c8878749a9a943dbba2fb51b90\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000452\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022dc6c0f88-e781-476d-bca1-d1bf9b69302b\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u0022b754a5c8878749a9a943dbba2fb51b90\u0022\u003EHon AMY ADAMS (National\u2014Selwyn):\u003C/span\u003E Thank you, Mr Chair. Look, I did want to come down and take the first of a couple of calls on this piece of legislation. I want to start by commending Mr Lawrence Yule\u2019s call\u2014the speaker who\u2019s just resumed his seat\u2014because, like Mr Yule, the people in my electorate had no understanding, no advice, and no indication at all that the intention of this Government was to bring in place a regional fuel tax in Selwyn. Nowhere in the discussion in Canterbury or in Selwyn or in Rangitata, or in any of those parts of the country where I get out and about, did we hear once from any of the representatives of the three parties now making up the Government that there was going to be a regional fuel tax in Selwyn. Certainly, there wasn\u2019t an indication that that would fund projects around the country but not benefiting, necessarily, Selwyn.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000453\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022dc6c0f88-e781-476d-bca1-d1bf9b69302b\u0022\u003ESo I want to know from this Government, and I want to know from the Minister in the chair, Phil Twyford, why, when they committed\u2014because here\u2019s what they did say to the people of Selwyn\u2014that there would be no new taxes in this turn of Government, they didn\u2019t say, \u201CExcept there will be a regional fuel tax likely in place in Selwyn and in Canterbury that we\u2019ll be legislating through within the first few months of our term.\u201D It\u2019s not something that\u2019s come up unexpectedly. I do want to hear from the Minister in the chair how he can defend saying to the people of Selwyn that there will not be new taxes and then, within just a few months, be legislating in this piece of law a new regional fuel tax (RFT) which can very likely apply to the people of Selwyn once the conditions in the legislation are worked through. And I find it repugnant that we are debating this legislation, which was sold to the people of New Zealand as an Auckland fuel tax, as in fact being a wolf in sheep\u2019s clothing intended to be, in fact, a tax across potentially every region of New Zealand.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000454\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022dc6c0f88-e781-476d-bca1-d1bf9b69302b\u0022\u003ENow, they\u2019ll say, \u201COh, well it\u2019s not coming yet.\u201D It doesn\u2019t matter\u2014we\u2019re legislating for it today. Today we are legislating for it, and it is no comfort to the people of New Zealand that they will have to live under the sword of that oncoming tax for a couple more years while the Minister works out exactly how it\u2019s going to work.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000455\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022dc6c0f88-e781-476d-bca1-d1bf9b69302b\u0022\u003ENow, there are two particular issues that I want to touch on in this call in respect to the bill itself. The first of these is in relation to the proposed new section 65XA in clause 5 of the bill\u2014and I am going to ask the Minister to talk us through this, because this is a matter that as a member of the Finance and Expenditure Committee (FEC), I was certainly interested in\u2014and that is this process via which a regional tax taxpayer can have a decision of the Transport Agency for tax reviewed. Actually, members of the Finance and Expenditure Committee are well used to dealing with taxation legislation, and it\u2019s a very important principle of tax legislation that not only is it very clear what a taxpayer\u2019s obligations will be but there are clear processes for them to have an assessment reviewed if that is the case.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000456\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022dc6c0f88-e781-476d-bca1-d1bf9b69302b\u0022\u003ENow, originally, the bill said, \u201CWell, they can go to court.\u201D Actually, anyone who\u2019s been in the position that I\u2019ve been in of having to advise clients on the reality of taking something to court knows that that\u2019s, frankly, a nonsense. No taxpayer is going to go to the District Court to challenge an assessment of regional fuel tax unless, frankly, they have money to burn and nothing better to do with their time. And, even then, with the uncertainty, they\u2019re unworkable. So the committee was very interested in how we could in fact set up a proper review process for those decisions that was something far short of going to court, and the result is new section 65XA in Part 1 of the bill. That certainly sets out a process for internal review, but what I want to ask the Minister is how taxpayers can have any confidence that that will be a fulsome, independent, and genuine review and not simply the person at the next desk rubber-stamping the decision of their colleague in the agency.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000457\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022dc6c0f88-e781-476d-bca1-d1bf9b69302b\u0022\u003EThere is nothing in new section 65XA that talks to or gives taxpayers any assurance whatsoever that a review of their taxation obligations will be anything more than a tick-through by the person at the next desk: \u201CHey, mate. Someone\u2019s complaining about this assessment I made. Can you sign it off?\u201D, \u201CYep, I\u2019ve reviewed it.\u201D, \u201CThat\u2019s good.\u201D That\u2019s not what FEC was talking about. That is not the sort of review process the taxpayers of New Zealand have come to expect\u2014and I think rightly so. I would like to hear from the Minister how new section 65XA will work, because there is nothing in that clause\u2014as I read it, Mr Twyford\u2014that in any way sets up any assurance other than to say \u201CSomeone else in the agency will look at it, and if they\u2019re happy then that\u2019s fine. And then, by the way, you can go back to court.\u201D, and that isn\u2019t right.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000458\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022dc6c0f88-e781-476d-bca1-d1bf9b69302b\u0022\u003ENow, I want to turn to the amendment in my name on the Table, which is suggesting an amendment to clause 5 of the bill, again, in Part 1, and again, of course, in clause 5, making amendments to the Land Transport Management Act, and in this case inserting new section 65E. Now, new section 65E, of course, goes through and sets out the matters that must be contained in a proposal for a regional fuel tax and goes through a list of some of what is required. The particular change that I am recommending to this committee is in paragraph (b) of new section 65E and asks that the bill inserts very clearly in a proposal for a new RFT exactly what the projections are for the likely benefits on congestion.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000459\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022dc6c0f88-e781-476d-bca1-d1bf9b69302b\u0022\u003ENow, this is pretty important, actually. I\u2019m sort of surprised it\u2019s not in the bill, because the bill has been sold to New Zealand\u2014somewhat badly, and somewhat late after the election, but none the less\u2014as being important because we need to reduce congestion. Now, actually, I don\u2019t think there\u2019s a member in this committee, and certainly not a member from Auckland, who doesn\u2019t understand that congestion is a real issue, and we certainly need to be thinking creatively about how we do that but also how we fund it. I would suggest to this Government that just banging on a new tax isn\u2019t the answer to everything, and it\u2019s very rarely that that\u2019s the best answer. But congestion is important.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000460\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022dc6c0f88-e781-476d-bca1-d1bf9b69302b\u0022\u003ECertainly, the Government has made a big focus in selling this bill about how this is important because we need to address congestion. Well, OK. If that\u2019s the case, Mr Twyford, why is it that in the proposal for an RFT scheme, in paragraph (b) of new section 65E, it doesn\u2019t require the proposer to state the projections of the likely benefit of the scheme on congestion? I would\u2019ve thought it would be reasonably sensible to say that if this is all about, in fact, managing congestion and is not just a tax grab for councils that, frankly, will always take a new tax if offered to them, then you would actually require the proposal for an RFT to state pretty clearly how it\u2019s going to help congestion.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000461\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022dc6c0f88-e781-476d-bca1-d1bf9b69302b\u0022\u003ENow, I can imagine the reason that the officials and the councils won\u2019t be keen on that, because, of course, that would have to make them accountable. And when Mr Goff rocks along with his regional fuel tax proposal and says to Auckland that he simply has to have it to reduce congestion, I think this House should expect Mr Goff and the Auckland Council, and, subsequently, other mayors around the country, that if they\u2019re going to claim that this is a congestion-relieving mechanism, to put their money where their mouth is and tell us exactly how much congestion it\u2019s likely to address. And I bet you they won\u2019t want to. They\u2019ll talk a big game when they get the new tax in, and they\u2019ll sort of talk in loose terms about reducing congestion and \u201CWon\u2019t this be a wonderful thing and it\u2019s all about freeing up our arteries.\u201D, but actually ask them to put a line in the sand about how much congestion\u2014New Zealand is paying another 11.5c a litre on top of the other taxes and petrol price increases\u2014is actually going to be reduced by these proposals.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000462\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022dc6c0f88-e781-476d-bca1-d1bf9b69302b\u0022\u003ENowhere in this bill\u2014and in paragraph (b) of new section 65E\u2014does it require them to actually project the amount of congestion that will be alleviated. How can that be the case? If this is all about congestion, if it\u2019s all about alleviating congestion, why is the one thing they\u2019re not required to state a projection of the congestion impacts of having a regional fuel tax scheme? \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000463\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022dc6c0f88-e781-476d-bca1-d1bf9b69302b\u0022\u003ESo I don\u2019t think it is a big ask at all for this Government and for Mr Twyford, if he\u2019s true to his word and if he\u2019s going to show us and show New Zealand that his walk matches up to the talk and that this is about congestion\u2014I don\u2019t see why there would be any resistance at all in adding a very simple requirement in new section 65E, in paragraph (b), a new subparagraph (v) saying that as part of making a regional fuel tax proposal the proposal should and will and, in fact, must include very clear information on the likely benefits of the proposal on congestion.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000464\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022dc6c0f88-e781-476d-bca1-d1bf9b69302b\u0022\u003EWithout that, surely, you\u2019d have to suggest that all of that talk is a nonsense, all of that talk is smoke and mirrors, and the real benefit of this is simply another tax grab from the party that only knows how to tax and spend. If this is about congestion, my challenge to the Government is a very simple one: show us that you mean what you say, and show us that breaking your word to New Zealand about having this only applying in Auckland is as far as the deception will go. This is going to be about congestion, and you\u2019re going to require a congestion assessment as part of the regional fuel tax proposal. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000465\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022dc6c0f88-e781-476d-bca1-d1bf9b69302b\u0022\u003ESo that is the amendment in my name. I don\u2019t like the bill\u2014let me be very clear: I don\u2019t think the bill is keeping faith with New Zealand. But if we\u2019re going to have it\u2014if the Government is going to ram it through without widespread support, against the opposition of Aucklanders, against the opposition of New Zealanders\u2014they should at least be honest.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u00225e6b7aaa-8157-4d5e-9940-1bdbcd61ae95\u0022 data-id=\u002289d65968d5334f828994300599c1794e\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000466\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00225e6b7aaa-8157-4d5e-9940-1bdbcd61ae95\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u002289d65968d5334f828994300599c1794e\u0022\u003EALASTAIR SCOTT (National\u2014Wairarapa):\u003C/span\u003E Thank you, Mr Chair. I\u2019m going to focus on new section 65D in a minute, but, before I do that, I\u2019d like to ask the Minister Phil Twyford a question. He talked about the Auckland regional tax being for the region\u2014and I appreciate that\u2014so, again, I ask him: why does he allow the inclusion of other regions to follow? That\u2019s point one. He\u2019s partially addressed it, but I don\u2019t think he has. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000467\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00225e6b7aaa-8157-4d5e-9940-1bdbcd61ae95\u0022\u003EThe second point is that there will be not one penny spent of this tax on the light rail programme, apparently\u2014not one penny spent on the light rail. Where does it say that in the bill? We know that the Government has talked about road taxes being able to be used for rail projects, but where in this bill does it explicitly say that this regional tax is not able to be spent on the light rail? I was quite confused, because the Minister did say that this regional fuel tax will be contributing to an upgrade of the Waiheke Island ferry terminal. So if the regional fuel tax can be used to upgrade the Waiheke Island ferry terminal\u2014and, as I say, the Waiheke Island ferry terminal is not excluded\u2014what\u2019s to stop the money from being spent on the light rail project, when, as the Minister said earlier, it could and will be spent to help fund the Waiheke Island terminal upgrade?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000468\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00225e6b7aaa-8157-4d5e-9940-1bdbcd61ae95\u0022\u003EThe second point is that he said that it will be about a $5 increase on the average family. So given that this is going to be approximately a 10 percent increase in fuel\u2014about 20 percent including the other taxes\u2014that means that the average family is spending about 50 bucks a week on fuel. Well, I don\u2019t know about you, but I just find that an absolutely ridiculous assertion. Fifty bucks hardly gets you from A to B, let alone to and from schools in the regions, to and from the workplace, to and from rugby practice, when you\u2019ve got to do 30, 40 kilometres each way to do your supermarkets in regional New Zealand.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000469\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00225e6b7aaa-8157-4d5e-9940-1bdbcd61ae95\u0022\u003ENow, I do acknowledge that there is an exemption in the select committee report. It does say that there is an ability for part of the region to be exempt from the regional fuel tax, but, I tell you what, I couldn\u2019t find it anywhere. How is that exemption going to take place? How will the lines be drawn? Will it be on a district council basis? Will it be town by town? Will it be a certain number of kilometres away from a regional boundary? It\u2019s very unclear to me how the Wairarapa, for example, will be exempt from the regional fuel tax. Could it be all of the Wairarapa, or just part of the Wairarapa, given the distances and the regressive nature that the Minister points out and acknowledges? So there are a couple of questions for the Minister\u2014and then why regions and not districts? Why not allow the district councils\u2014because I\u2019ve got five district councils in my electorate\u2014to collect the tax? Has there been any thought put into that? \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000470\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00225e6b7aaa-8157-4d5e-9940-1bdbcd61ae95\u0022\u003EBut coming to new section 65D in clause 5, the regional tax has to be one or more capital projects\u2014and it doesn\u2019t say \u201Croading projects\u201D; it just says \u201Ccapital projects\u201D, hence the Waiheke Island terminal example\u2014that \u201Cwould benefit the region [but] cannot reasonably be fully funded from sources other than a regional \u2026 tax\u201D. Well, come on, we can find borrowing\u2014we can fund these things without any of these projects. We can go to anywhere and not require a regional fuel tax. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000471\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00225e6b7aaa-8157-4d5e-9940-1bdbcd61ae95\u0022\u003EThe savings from Auckland Council are one source of funds that would disallow the need for a regional fuel tax. You can find efficiencies, you can go to other sources, you can borrow, you can go to general taxation, or you can go to general road-user charges, so I\u2019m not sure how the bar has been set that they cannot reasonably be fully funded from sources other than a regional fuel tax. I\u2019m interested to hear from the Minister how that bar is set, how that standard is set, to fulfil the funding for the capital projects.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u0022dbaac12b-3efa-4d95-a08d-f0f637a48bab\u0022 data-id=\u0022e24980907bff4d75b3f2ded2b9b91727\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000472\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022dbaac12b-3efa-4d95-a08d-f0f637a48bab\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u0022e24980907bff4d75b3f2ded2b9b91727\u0022\u003ECHL\u00D6E SWARBRICK (Green):\u003C/span\u003E I move, That the question be now put.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u0022ed2d10c1-43b7-41d9-9f5c-0c313f70e625\u0022 data-id=\u002297ece4b018054cf6ba355ceba06b8f85\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000473\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022ed2d10c1-43b7-41d9-9f5c-0c313f70e625\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u002297ece4b018054cf6ba355ceba06b8f85\u0022\u003EHon NIKKI KAYE (National\u2014Auckland Central):\u003C/span\u003E I really want to address, obviously, a few comments that have been made by members across the Chamber, but also I do want to really crystallise in people\u2019s minds the impact of this bill on some isolated islands in the Hauraki Gulf for the reason that we know that in 2021, this bill could be bringing in a whole lot of other areas in New Zealand. Listen up, rural New Zealand: it is important that the rural communities in this country understand that this little old set of islands in the middle of the Hauraki Gulf is about to be paying for light rail down Dominion Road. So if you\u2019re someone who lives on Waiheke Island, you already pay ferry fares currently that are not subsidised by the Government, and you\u2019re about to be paying for light rail down Dominion Road.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000474\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022ed2d10c1-43b7-41d9-9f5c-0c313f70e625\u0022\u003EI want to address some of the issues that have already come before the committee. The first point I want to make, which is in response to the Minister\u2019s comments: 4 percent at the Auckland Council in savings\u2014because we\u2019re talking about $150 million here\u2014is reasonable. We know that they spend a huge amount on consultants. We know that there is fat in terms of staffing. So it is reasonable to ask them to look at those savings before you start racking up fuel taxes in Auckland. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000475\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022ed2d10c1-43b7-41d9-9f5c-0c313f70e625\u0022\u003EThe second point I want to make is that it is good that the Minister has said to the people of Great Barrier that it looks like the Government is going to exempt Great Barrier, but the reality is that it is not as of right. So if Phil Twyford loses his job, who knows what could happen in terms of a future Minister. That\u2019s why my amendment is superior for the people of Great Barrier, because they get that certainty.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000476\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022ed2d10c1-43b7-41d9-9f5c-0c313f70e625\u0022\u003EBut in terms of Waiheke, this is what \u201CPlanet Labour\u201D looks like. Under \u201CPlanet Labour\u201D\u2014and this is a real scenario\u2014you\u2019ll now be having tourists that will land at Auckland Airport. Before they get there, they\u2019ll be paying a tourist tax. They\u2019re going to now get in a car and fuel is going to be higher. So those tourists are going to pay the tourism tax, they\u2019re going to get in the car with the extra costs of fuel, they\u2019re going to arrive at the Downtown ferry terminal, which the Minister talks about being delivered as a result of this fuel tax. Well, I have a question for the Minister. Did he read the ferry development plan of 2014? They\u2019ve been talking about this Downtown ferry terminal upgrade for a very long time, and it\u2019s very convenient that it\u2019s ended up on the list of regional fuel tax projects. But, under this situation, that same tourist, who\u2019s had to pay a tax before they\u2019ve even landed at Auckland Airport, has paid additional money in fuel taxes to get across to Waiheke, then gets on a ferry, has to pay the ferry costs, then has to get on the island, has to pay additional costs for paying for the Dominion Road light rail, and then they go and sit in a restaurant on Waiheke Island and they\u2019re already paying additional cost in terms of food, and now they\u2019re paying more costs as a result of these fuel taxes.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000477\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022ed2d10c1-43b7-41d9-9f5c-0c313f70e625\u0022\u003EI\u2019m just saying to the Minister, when you\u2019ve got a situation on Great Barrier before these fuel taxes even come in, where they\u2019re at $3.30 a litre, and now they\u2019re going to go up to over $3.50 unless he exempts them, and then on Waiheke you\u2019re already paying 25c a litre and you are then also paying ferry costs\u2014and this is not about upgrading the Downtown ferry terminal, because that has been in the works for a very long time. The same argument, in terms of \u201CSome of those people will commute and be in Auckland.\u201D, applies to Great Barrier, so it\u2019s not a principled argument to say that, somehow, they should now be paying because they also use transport in Auckland. The reality is that this tax is going to affect disadvantaged people but it\u2019s also going to choke the very small communities like the islands of Great Barrier and Waiheke.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000478\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022ed2d10c1-43b7-41d9-9f5c-0c313f70e625\u0022\u003EThe reality is that people in other parts of regional New Zealand should be scared because we have a date in this bill: 2021. We\u2019re going to have regional taxes around the rest of New Zealand, and what this Government is demonstrating in this amendment\u2014by voting down my amendment, which helps the small communities who are isolated islands who already have higher costs\u2014is that they\u2019re not prepared to accept that they already have a significant reason to not be benefiting from these fuel taxes. So it\u2019s not just about these communities; it\u2019s about the wider principle. And the reality is that people can\u2019t afford a Labour Government.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u002226b88bf1-f634-40e7-8019-e75cc483ace7\u0022 data-id=\u00229299a49e2b4440cb99b86dd8ffc04abc\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000479\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002226b88bf1-f634-40e7-8019-e75cc483ace7\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u00229299a49e2b4440cb99b86dd8ffc04abc\u0022\u003EJO LUXTON (Labour):\u003C/span\u003E I move, That the question be now put.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u002203fd985b-4fb8-4111-ba38-5033a254d962\u0022 data-id=\u0022528f249bb20a4bb684ca809e020e049b\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000480\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002203fd985b-4fb8-4111-ba38-5033a254d962\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u0022528f249bb20a4bb684ca809e020e049b\u0022\u003EBRETT HUDSON (National):\u003C/span\u003E Thank you, Mr Chair. In my previous contribution, I was talking about the proposals to establish a regional fuel tax (RFT) and how our regional councils have to have some narrative around the objectives under the general policy statement for land transport but there\u2019s no clear criteria as to what level they have to show that they\u2019ll meet those objectives in order to get a successful proposal over the line.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000481\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002203fd985b-4fb8-4111-ba38-5033a254d962\u0022\u003EActually, that\u2019s a real problem, because one of the objectives\u2014and, I\u2019d argue, the very most important of them\u2014is the value-for-money criteria or objective. Now, that is the most important because, after all, a Government is simply stewarding the taxpayers\u2019 money. So hard-working Kiwis, through their taxes\u2014the Government has a job to make sure that they get the very best return on that spend. Well, this bill will allow a regional council to apply for a regional fuel tax. It only has to have a narrative around how it supports that and other objectives; it doesn\u2019t have to meet a certain threshold. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000482\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002203fd985b-4fb8-4111-ba38-5033a254d962\u0022\u003EThis is a shame, because in the Estimates hearing, the Minister confirmed that he would meet the commitment in that objective in the draft Government policy statement (GPS) where the New Zealand Transport Agency have said that even for out-of-scope proposals\u2014so it\u2019s the ones with lower benefits\u2014they would still expect that even for one that wouldn\u2019t normally be prioritised, the benefit to cost ratio would still be greater than one. Well, this legislation, in the way it\u2019s written, means that wouldn\u2019t have to be the case if a council put a proposal up for regional fuel tax money.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000483\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002203fd985b-4fb8-4111-ba38-5033a254d962\u0022\u003EAnd it\u2019s even worse, because in new section 65J in clause 5, \u201CDecisions of Minister of Finance and responsible Minister concerning proposed RFT scheme\u201D, theirs is an absolute discretion, a complete discretion, and they don\u2019t have to make any reference to the GPS for land transport in making that decision. So the Minister of Finance and the responsible Minister can agree to a regional fuel tax that doesn\u2019t meet any of the objectives of the GPS, and that is absolutely wrong. I call upon the Minister and officials to put up a Supplementary Order Paper quickly to actually make sure that anything that\u2019s going to be funded or part-funded through an RFT will have to meet those objectives and in a way that is objectively measured and can be relied upon, not some subjective whim.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000484\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002203fd985b-4fb8-4111-ba38-5033a254d962\u0022\u003EThere\u2019s an amendment in my name, which is around changing the definition of \u201Cfuel\u201D under this bill. The change I would have is to amend new section 65A to replace the definition of \u201Cfuel\u201D with \u201CFuel means specified engine fuel as defined in section 181(1) of the Local Government Act 1974, but without regard for paragraph (B) of that definition and diesel and biofuel.\u201D Now, despite us being opposed to this bill, the intention of my amendment is not to exclude diesel or biofuel from the extra taxation burden to help fund the trams on Dominion Road, although they shouldn\u2019t do that. But if we just assume that the bill may pass, instead of diesel users paying their additional burden via a per-litre tax at the pump, this is looking at paying it through an increased road-user charge, because that is currently the way those fuel users pay the equivalent of fuel excise today. They pay it on a per-kilometre basis, but it\u2019s being calculated to be relative to what petrol motorists pay on a per-litre basis. So they already meet their fair share of fuel excise through a road-user charge today.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000485\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002203fd985b-4fb8-4111-ba38-5033a254d962\u0022\u003EIf there is going to be an increased regional fuel tax burden for petrol users, my argument is that diesel and biofuel users, instead of paying a per-litre price, should, for consistency, do that through an increased road-user charge. As I say, the calculations already exist today to do what is, in effect, a conversion from a per-litre price for a petrol user to a per-kilometre price for a diesel or biofuel user, and that would make it a lot easier and consistent for those owners of diesel- and biofuel-powered vehicles to meet their share of the additional burden, but to do so under the current mechanism they have and, that way, just have the one means of addressing it, which it is through their prepaying of kilometres through the road-user charge. I think that\u2019s a fairer and more reasonable way for those motorists to pay their share, and I call upon the Minister and officials to accept it.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u00221ebd1031-ea10-4c3d-bb56-2cd99528ae91\u0022 data-id=\u00227c2f8879f00a411a96f063455d0b23c1\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000486\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00221ebd1031-ea10-4c3d-bb56-2cd99528ae91\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u00227c2f8879f00a411a96f063455d0b23c1\u0022\u003EWILLOW-JEAN PRIME (Labour):\u003C/span\u003E I move, That the question be now put.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u0022943fd636-21ec-4442-9a72-68c49464776f\u0022 data-id=\u002294154b29acba45aea382492f3f95a725\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000487\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022943fd636-21ec-4442-9a72-68c49464776f\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u002294154b29acba45aea382492f3f95a725\u0022\u003EDENISE LEE (National\u2014Maungakiekie):\u003C/span\u003E Thank you, Mr Chair. I appreciate the chance to take this call. I\u2019d like to speak to the amendment in my name, which seeks to insert a clause to provide an analysis of what price-spreading behaviour could occur. Now several speakers have referred to this, but this is a request, a specific amendment. We\u2019re bringing a solution here. Given that the entire process for this bill was truncated\u2014very much shortened; in our opinion, found absolutely wanting and lacking for its due process\u2014we would like to see certain clauses inserted, and here\u2019s one: the analysis of what price-spreading behaviour could occur.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000488\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022943fd636-21ec-4442-9a72-68c49464776f\u0022\u003EAccording to the ministry, and I said this earlier, price spreading occurred when fuel taxes were introduced in the 1990s, and it was one of the reasons a fuel tax was repealed back in 2009. So the Government\u2019s been clear that this is supposedly just for Auckland, but consumers in other parts of New Zealand will clearly be affected by price spreading, and\u2014how\u2019s this, Mr Chair\u2014eligible for rebates? No, they will not be eligible for rebates and to be able to claim it back. So there\u2019s some real discrepancy here. There\u2019s evidence that price spreading is already happening in the South Island. There\u2019s a growth in the gap between Auckland and Wellington and it\u2019s surged since March. That\u2019s been very much reported on.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000489\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022943fd636-21ec-4442-9a72-68c49464776f\u0022\u003ESo what this amendment does is make it a requirement for price spreading to be included in the programme of projects provided for in this regional fuel tax proposal. Now if you think that\u2019s just an idea that we\u2019ve come up with\u2014no. The bill in its current form already outlines a number of other things that need to be included in the proposal\u2014for example, the duration of the projects, that needs to be included; the impact on fuel-buying behaviour, that needs to be included. So why not include the importance of price spreading\u2014and the wording in this particular amendment is an \u201Canalysis\u201D of what price-spreading behaviour could occur. If we\u2019re going to have those other things, why not have this?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000490\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022943fd636-21ec-4442-9a72-68c49464776f\u0022\u003EImplementing a regional fuel tax\u2014stating the obvious here\u2014is a very big decision and it comes with a lot of responsibility from councils, so they should have to consider the impacts that there will be on those outside of their respective regions, not just within. Also, if it\u2019s in the proposal, it means that Ministers should have to seriously consider it. So this amendment requiring an analysis of what price-spreading behaviour could occur makes sense; it is a sensible way forward. Up until now, while this bill was being developed with so little consideration, price-spreading consideration by the Minister and the councils\u2014look, heck, this amendment could be considered a consolation prize. If you\u2019ve done little analysis up until this point today, here you go, here\u2019s a consolation prize\u2014an amendment that helps the Minister and the Government insert what should have been there in the first place\u2014a requirement to consider the impact of price spreading.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000491\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022943fd636-21ec-4442-9a72-68c49464776f\u0022\u003EI commend this particular amendment and I\u2019m sure that some of my very learned and eloquent colleagues will back me up in the course of the debate here this afternoon and long into the hours tonight\u2014\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000492\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002255d0b7a4-a2c9-4c38-9b77-475311a48a89\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022eb45c09b28614e57a831d6bebac50153\u0022\u003ESimeon Brown\u003C/span\u003E: \u201CEloquent\u201D being the operative word.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000493\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022943fd636-21ec-4442-9a72-68c49464776f\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022bf6e27ffd6814de9b9df3e15c3f19afb\u0022\u003EDENISE LEE\u003C/span\u003E: \u201CEloquent\u201D is the operative word. Thank you to the member for Pakuranga, and we\u2019ll look forward to the Government accepting this amendment that requires an analysis of what price-spreading behaviour could occur. Thank you.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u002212d74f81-b1f7-4b51-9fb4-8f9481477192\u0022 data-id=\u00220a1d4a70e6aa4041afc276338b9f5ae9\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000494\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002212d74f81-b1f7-4b51-9fb4-8f9481477192\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u00220a1d4a70e6aa4041afc276338b9f5ae9\u0022\u003EDr DEBORAH RUSSELL (Labour\u2014New Lynn):\u003C/span\u003E I move, That the question be now put.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u0022ed2de46a-9047-4bfe-92c8-5f14fd415dfb\u0022 data-id=\u0022a4a473af399442588fb9b7b3d1500f54\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000495\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022ed2de46a-9047-4bfe-92c8-5f14fd415dfb\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u0022a4a473af399442588fb9b7b3d1500f54\u0022\u003EANDREW FALLOON (National\u2014Rangitata):\u003C/span\u003E Thank you, Mr Chair. I\u2019ve been waiting a little while for that, so thank you for finally noticing me. Look, I was pleased to see the Minister find his feet before and start responding to some of the issues that have been raised, and he himself raised a number of points which I\u2019m sure members on this side on this Chamber will want to explore as the evening progresses.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000496\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022ed2de46a-9047-4bfe-92c8-5f14fd415dfb\u0022\u003EThis is my second call in the committee stage of the Land Transport Management (Regional Fuel Tax) Amendment Bill, and I want to raise a number of specific questions with the Minister in relation to the content of the bill. But before I do that, I just want to speak briefly on the second amendment that I have in my name, which is in relation to oversight. It would insert a new section 65L(3), which would require that \u201CThe Minister of Finance and responsible Minister must review a RFT Scheme annually to ensure that the regional council is carrying out the RFT scheme for their region.\u201D\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000497\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022ed2de46a-9047-4bfe-92c8-5f14fd415dfb\u0022\u003EI would have thought that that was a perfectly reasonable amendment for the Government to accept. It doesn\u2019t detract from the aims of the bill. All it does is require Ministers and the Government to have a look from time to time at the adequacy and the operation of the regional fuel tax (RFT) scheme that they are legislating for tonight. Once approved, the RFT scheme will be in place. It makes absolute sense that there is further democratic oversight beyond just the legislation passing through this House\u2014that Ministers do continue to have a look, making sure that it is operating appropriately for that region.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000498\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022ed2de46a-9047-4bfe-92c8-5f14fd415dfb\u0022\u003EI want to come now to three very specific questions I have for the Minister, and I hope that he continues to follow on with what he\u2019s been doing, just briefly this evening, in responding to some of the issues that we\u2019ve raised. The first one\u2019s in relation to new section 65C(2).\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000499\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022ed2de46a-9047-4bfe-92c8-5f14fd415dfb\u0022\u003ESitting suspended from 6 p.m. to 7.30 p.m.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000500\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022ed2de46a-9047-4bfe-92c8-5f14fd415dfb\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u002282497ce23ec14764a071792bfef78722\u0022\u003EANDREW FALLOON\u003C/span\u003E: Before the break, I had been speaking to my second amendment, which relates to ministerial oversight. So with that now completed, I\u2019ll move on to the three specific queries I had for the Minister in the chair.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000501\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022ed2de46a-9047-4bfe-92c8-5f14fd415dfb\u0022\u003EThe first one of those relates to new section 65C(2), and that specifies that \u201CThe maximum duration of an RFT scheme is 10 years unless extended under section 65K(2).\u201D When you turn to new section 65K(2), that outlines the Minister\u2019s powers to extend the length of the RFT by Order in Council. My concern around that is that what it does is remove any further democratic oversight by this Parliament. It essentially allows the Minister and the council to go off and to keep extending the tax in perpetuity without it ever coming back to Parliament. So I\u2019d like to ask the Minister in the chair if he\u2019d consider changing that clause to something a bit more reasonable, so that it comes back to this House and we can consider it again rather than it keep being extended in perpetuity.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000502\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022ed2de46a-9047-4bfe-92c8-5f14fd415dfb\u0022\u003EThe second concern I have\u2014and, again, I\u2019d like to hear the Minister\u2019s thoughts on this\u2014is in relation to new section 65D(b). This is where it outlines that a tax is available where a project \u201Ccannot reasonably be fully funded from sources other than a regional fuel tax within the time frame desired by the council.\u201D So I have a question for the Minister around that, which is what is reasonable? Who determines what is reasonable? Is it the council that determines what is reasonable? Is it the Minister that determines what is reasonable? Or is it the Government that determines what is reasonable? The reason I ask that is because it could lead quite conceivably to some pretty strange ideas coming forward from councils. The odd council does have some interesting ideas from time to time about what they might want to achieve without it having to go through the normal ratepayer process.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000503\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022ed2de46a-9047-4bfe-92c8-5f14fd415dfb\u0022\u003EThe second concern I have around that is around the incentive structure that operates in councils. Now, if they know that they can go off cap in hand to Government and ask them for a regional fuel tax, their incentive is going to be to spend up large so that they cannot conceivably fund that project without a tax. So what it\u2019s going to do is incentivise councils to spend a lot of money and then come to the Government and say, \u201CWe can\u2019t fund this vital piece of infrastructure in our region.\u201D\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000504\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022ed2de46a-9047-4bfe-92c8-5f14fd415dfb\u0022\u003EThe third concern I have\u2014and, again, I\u2019d like to hear from the Minister on this\u2014relates to new section 65E(c)(ii), (iii), and (iv). They run through \u201Cdescribe its expected\u201D\u2014[Time expired]\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u0022f96cdca1-b63c-4602-b2b3-276f58ebb518\u0022 data-id=\u00220297feda60cd461fb7573e9838b25342\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000505\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022f96cdca1-b63c-4602-b2b3-276f58ebb518\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u00220297feda60cd461fb7573e9838b25342\u0022\u003ECHRIS PENK (National\u2014Helensville):\u003C/span\u003E Thank you, Madam Chairperson.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000506\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u002265fffe7b28154767981cf83f947b3ca2\u0022\u003EHon Member\u003C/span\u003E: Not again.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000507\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022f96cdca1-b63c-4602-b2b3-276f58ebb518\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022dec8d35041724563939d692090516a17\u0022\u003ECHRIS PENK\u003C/span\u003E: A pleasure to speak again, much to the delight, I\u2019m sure, of fellow members of the committee\u2014almost as much as my own\u2014on the subject of the Land Transport Management (Regional Fuel Tax) Amendment Bill.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000508\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022f96cdca1-b63c-4602-b2b3-276f58ebb518\u0022\u003EI\u2019d like to speak to a couple of amendments in my name, the first of which relates to clause 5 of the amendment bill, inserting new section 65ZD(3). Amended new section 65ZD(3) will, therefore, read as follows: \u201CAn order made under subsection (1) is a legislative instrument and a confirmable instrument for the purposes of the Legislation Act 2012 and must be presented to the House of Representatives annually under section 41 of that Act.\u201D Now keen observers will have picked up that the word \u201Cannually\u201D is thereby inserted with a particular and, I think, not insignificant effect such that the amendment will ensure that a change to the maximum rate of the regional fuel tax will receive regular parliamentary scrutiny.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000509\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022f96cdca1-b63c-4602-b2b3-276f58ebb518\u0022\u003ESo looking at the effect that that will have in practice when this amendment is accepted\u2014as I have absolutely no doubt that it will be\u2014there are three headings, essentially, under which I would like to make comment on that. The first is the notion of scrutiny being appropriate for legislation in general but, in particular, tax legislation, and, in particular further still, tax legislation that is, effectively, going to be changed over time by the mechanism of regulation. We\u2019re all familiar with and, I hope, cognisant of in a very diligent way the phrase \u201CNo taxation without representation\u201D. Of course, while this initial piece of legislation is receiving some excellent scrutiny by way of representation right now as we speak, the concern would be that in the future if the fuel tax rates were to rise\u2014as indeed seems likely; perhaps even inevitable\u2014then parliamentary scrutiny of that would be very appropriate, indeed essential.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000510\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022f96cdca1-b63c-4602-b2b3-276f58ebb518\u0022\u003EThe second point relates to the timing of the proposed scrutiny that I\u2019ve already mentioned. The timing that I have proposed is annual because it seems to me that an annual review is a good, regular basis on which all financial matters should be reviewed. That\u2019s consistent with the practices of most, or perhaps all, businesses, and many families and households too. To be able to undertake a regular review, perhaps even to make something of a fixture of this review\u2014I expect that it would be looked forward to eagerly by young children in the same way that Christmas and other regular annual events are. \u201CHow many sleeps until the review under the Land Transport Management Amendment Act, consistent with the Legislation Act 2012, Mummy or Daddy?\u201D, I can easily imagine young children up and down this country saying.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000511\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022f96cdca1-b63c-4602-b2b3-276f58ebb518\u0022\u003ESo that brings me to the third and final point, which is that it\u2019s appropriate that such scrutiny as encouraged by my amendment be conducted in Parliament, because it is Parliament, or the House of Representatives as recorded in the wording of the amendment\u2014albeit that wording is already in the Act with the addition, of course, of the word \u201Cannually\u201D\u2014that would be scrutinising that. That would be applying that representation by way of this House being the representatives of the people of New Zealand in a way that the Governor-General\u2014with all due respect to him or her in that role\u2014does not provide. So too we might observe that a Minister, however diligent he or she may be, cannot be expected to provide the representation that is necessary to provide the scrutiny on behalf of the people of New Zealand, who would be subject to this tax, or, indeed, the people of Auckland, if it is, indeed, to remain confined to Aucklanders, as we suspect that it will very likely not be. So it is appropriate that it\u2019s in this House of Representatives that debates can take place, just as they are now. Something for us all to look forward to, no doubt\u2014that this ongoing scrutiny can take place so that further changes do not take place without that proper democratic mandate.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u0022a1f7bbd1-b6ae-41c0-963b-dbe1251f5540\u0022 data-id=\u00229aa80a0c84ea41e49c60578991096111\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000512\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022a1f7bbd1-b6ae-41c0-963b-dbe1251f5540\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u00229aa80a0c84ea41e49c60578991096111\u0022\u003EKIERAN McANULTY (Junior Whip\u2014Labour):\u003C/span\u003E I move, That the question be now put.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u00228a1cb04e-8a86-44d1-9004-6e158e220339\u0022 data-id=\u00226062362b558d494e9c81eca31bf680aa\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000513\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00228a1cb04e-8a86-44d1-9004-6e158e220339\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u00226062362b558d494e9c81eca31bf680aa\u0022\u003EHon TIM MACINDOE (National\u2014Hamilton West):\u003C/span\u003E Thank you very much, Madam Chair. I appreciate that because this is only the second call that I\u2019ve been able to take, and, unfortunately, because it\u2019s been quite a busy period before and after the adjournment, it hasn\u2019t been possible for me to be here for the whole of the debate. I was very concerned before I left the Chamber earlier this evening that at that point, the Minister in the chair, Phil Twyford, hadn\u2019t taken any calls, although I understand he has done so. The reason I was concerned was because there were not only a huge number of questions being put to him but also some very significant amendments being suggested, including one in my name, and I hope it\u2019s had adequate discussion in my absence. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000514\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00228a1cb04e-8a86-44d1-9004-6e158e220339\u0022\u003EI am putting forward another amendment, and I think it comes down to the crux of one of the most important matters. There\u2019s that old saying about \u201CNo taxation without representation\u201D, and in the context of this debate, I think what we are really looking at is a tax that is being proposed not only without adequate consultation but definitely which is not representative of the wishes of the electorate. There is ample evidence now from right around the country\u2014not just in the Auckland region, that is most directly affected in the immediate future by this particular tax\u2014of the fact that this is not a tax that enjoys popular support.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000515\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00228a1cb04e-8a86-44d1-9004-6e158e220339\u0022\u003EI raise a point of order, Madam Chairperson. I\u2019m just conscious of the fact that we are in the committee stage and, apparently, I have even longer to go in this particular call than I had at the start, which is very pleasant.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000516\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022977cccaf-581d-4f48-924e-32bf6c54a93d\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022eb80cf10ee4a48be8c3ac3e0c609cbb3\u0022\u003ECHAIRPERSON (Hon Anne Tolley)\u003C/span\u003E: That\u2019s all right. Mine says four minutes.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000517\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00228a1cb04e-8a86-44d1-9004-6e158e220339\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022eb60ae4221314ecbb5c53bcf1e289a47\u0022\u003EHon TIM MACINDOE\u003C/span\u003E: Yours says four? Well, Madam Chair, I\u2019ll just take my lead from you and assume, therefore, that the clock is\u2014\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000518\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022977cccaf-581d-4f48-924e-32bf6c54a93d\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022b45fed4a993a4207b903c0923005010b\u0022\u003ECHAIRPERSON (Hon Anne Tolley)\u003C/span\u003E: There we go. Look at that, now it\u2019s three.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000519\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00228a1cb04e-8a86-44d1-9004-6e158e220339\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u002277ee4fbbacea493eb1099fe9590758cf\u0022\u003EHon TIM MACINDOE\u003C/span\u003E: I\u2019m very happy to get on with it, but it is of course\u2014\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000520\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022a1f7bbd1-b6ae-41c0-963b-dbe1251f5540\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022a1cf1f50b68d4c0993966861b0784f42\u0022\u003EKieran McAnulty\u003C/span\u003E: Filibustering.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000521\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00228a1cb04e-8a86-44d1-9004-6e158e220339\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022370bc4efc7094be3ba750bb5461c73b4\u0022\u003EHon TIM MACINDOE\u003C/span\u003E: No, not filibustering at all, but it is discombobulating when one is looking at the clock and trying to work out\u2014ah, the clock has just miraculously changed.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000522\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022977cccaf-581d-4f48-924e-32bf6c54a93d\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022e44348e5c9074ef9806f675108beb703\u0022\u003ECHAIRPERSON (Hon Anne Tolley)\u003C/span\u003E: I do apologise. I was not discombobulated. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000523\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00228a1cb04e-8a86-44d1-9004-6e158e220339\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u00220f47bd502f024ef1adead565da19c70f\u0022\u003EHon TIM MACINDOE\u003C/span\u003E: No, that\u2019s fine. Thank you, Madam Chair. I shall resume. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000524\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00228a1cb04e-8a86-44d1-9004-6e158e220339\u0022\u003EThe point I was making is a serious one\u2014that there is ample evidence from right around the country now that this is a particular measure that is deeply resented by many, and, in particular, in areas that Labour MPs claim to represent and claim that they have their greatest support. There\u2019s no doubt at all that this is a tax that will fall disproportionately and most unfairly on those on low and modest incomes, and in my own electorate I have many people who fit into that category. What is becoming clear is that while it may not be applying down in Hamilton and the Waikato region just now, nevertheless, it is clearly envisaged by the Government that the breadth of this legislation would be extended were the country unfortunate enough to see them get a second term. I want to implore the Government to look at the impact on not only those people who they claim to represent but the public at large, who will not benefit from this tax but who will certainly pay quite a slice of it. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000525\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00228a1cb04e-8a86-44d1-9004-6e158e220339\u0022\u003EI had the opportunity to do some campaigning up in Northcote during the recent by-election, and it was very obvious as I spoke to people, as I knocked on their doors and out on the streets, that they were saying, \u201CWe don\u2019t want to pay this tax. It\u2019s not going to be of benefit to us and yet we\u2019re going to have to pay a large chunk of it.\u201D I don\u2019t think that it is adequate for the Government to say \u201CWell, there are some projects that will benefit from this.\u201D when, by the same token, they are ignoring the fact that in the previous Government\u2019s tenure we had made very significant commitments to extra infrastructure spending, particularly in roading but also with the City Rail Link in Auckland, huge investment into KiwiRail, and huge investment into different forms of public transport. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000526\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00228a1cb04e-8a86-44d1-9004-6e158e220339\u0022\u003EIt is not appropriate for the Government to say \u201CWell, we\u2019ve just got to go on taking more and more money.\u201D when our commitments were funded out of the existing budgetary measures. And here not only have we got a Government that is saying \u201CWell, we need more money for these few projects\u201D but, in fact, they\u2019re saying, \u201CA whole lot of things that the previous Government was able to fund are now disappearing.\u201D Well, will the public get their money back? Who representing their electorate expects that their constituents are suddenly going to see a refund from the Government because the taxes that they were spending on previous projects will no longer go ahead? I am absolutely distraught that in my Waikato region, the Cambridge to Piarere\u2014or, in fact, the Cambridge right to the foot of the Kaimai Ranges proposal is no longer going to go ahead, because that is a project that would have not only saved huge time, reduced congestion, and made transport much more efficient; it would\u2019ve saved lives. The same was true of the extension of the road to T\u012Brau. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000527\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00228a1cb04e-8a86-44d1-9004-6e158e220339\u0022\u003ESo my point is that without consulting the public about this, the Government is intending to take far more in tax than they ever let on beforehand, reduce the number of projects on which that tax will be spent, confine it to some very narrow areas, and ignore the overwhelming body of public opinion that says, \u201CThis isn\u2019t necessary and we shouldn\u2019t be doing this.\u201D We can be funding our infrastructure through the provisions that the previous Government has made, and bear in mind that this Government inherited a very strong economy, whereas its predecessor inherited a very weak one. This is just the wrong way of going about this whole particular issue. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u0022e978865e-57e5-41d6-a7f6-b49daae78630\u0022 data-id=\u0022642a138afebb4784be32b4ef7804446f\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000528\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e978865e-57e5-41d6-a7f6-b49daae78630\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u0022642a138afebb4784be32b4ef7804446f\u0022\u003EHon Dr NICK SMITH (National\u2014Nelson):\u003C/span\u003E There are a hundred million reasons why the people of Nelson and Tasman are concerned about the impact of Part 1 of this bill, because this bill would give the power to take an extra $100 million out of my community at the same time the Government is saying it\u2019s going to invest less in the transport needs of the communities of Nelson and Tasman.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000529\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022bf71a65e-c9f0-4856-902f-1a15c4274e94\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022e074935fd9f04e9b96c3a525568afd4e\u0022\u003EMark Patterson\u003C/span\u003E: Rubbish.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000530\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e978865e-57e5-41d6-a7f6-b49daae78630\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u002243d1e8538fb5462b9d3183d7e02cd69d\u0022\u003EHon Dr NICK SMITH\u003C/span\u003E: Now, I hear the New Zealand First MP interjecting. I would suggest to him: has he read the speeches from Winston Peters on what he called highway robbery? What Winston Peters said was that to impose an excise tax and to put GST on top of it was nothing short of highway robbery, and yet that is exactly what this part of this bill does. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000531\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e978865e-57e5-41d6-a7f6-b49daae78630\u0022\u003EThe regional petrol tax that\u2019s proposed in this part is at the same time as the Minister in the chair, Phil Twyford, is proposing to reduce investment in State highways by 70 percent. So let\u2019s not be cute. This part says to a community like mine \u201CPay more, get less\u201D\u2014pay more, get less\u2014and that is why members on this side of the House will fight this bill, this part, every step of the way.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000532\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e978865e-57e5-41d6-a7f6-b49daae78630\u0022\u003EI\u2019m looking forward to any member\u2014any member\u2014on the Government benches explaining to the public the integrity of saying to voters, only nine months ago, \u201CNo new taxes\u201D, and then a bill and this part that proposes exactly that\u2014introducing new taxes on constituents. It\u2019s all the worse for the fact that the analysis shows that those that will be most adversely affected are actually those lower-income earners that actually voted\u2014many of them mistakenly\u2014for members opposite.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000533\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e978865e-57e5-41d6-a7f6-b49daae78630\u0022\u003EThe further point I want to make is the flaws in regional petrol tax policy. If we read the analysis by Treasury and if we read the analysis by the Ministry of Transport, for a little country of 4.7 million people, the idea that you can somehow impose a tax just in some regions is a nonsense. I was stunned when Jami-Lee Ross challenged the Minister, when the Auckland petrol tax comes into effect a bit more than a week away, and asked for a reassurance that people in regional New Zealand\u2014like Nelson\u2014would not be paying it, and the Minister could give no assurance at all, basically undermining the very tenet that somehow a regional petrol tax will only be paid by that region.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000534\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e978865e-57e5-41d6-a7f6-b49daae78630\u0022\u003EIn my area, the current petrol tax amounts to $100 million a year. That is more than what many of my constituents pay each year in rates, and that is why I have tabled an amendment that specifically exempts my communities of Nelson and Tasman from the extra costs. I say to the members opposite, that\u2019s because your Government is saying to my high-growth area, \u201CYou can expect no new investment.\u201D\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000535\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e978865e-57e5-41d6-a7f6-b49daae78630\u0022\u003ENow, I\u2019m proud of the Ruby Bay Bypass and the many other major transport projects that have been built in my area. But it is morally reprehensible\u2014morally reprehensible\u2014that members opposite want to impose costs on my constituents at the same time they are saying to them they\u2019re going to reduce by 70 percent the funding on our transport infrastructure, and that is why I urge support for my amendment.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u00225b6b1d74-9e5e-42ba-a922-85b0ea7f5ab6\u0022 data-id=\u0022b5a8e34f5b514119b631574bbe37cdcb\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000536\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00225b6b1d74-9e5e-42ba-a922-85b0ea7f5ab6\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u0022b5a8e34f5b514119b631574bbe37cdcb\u0022\u003ESIMON O\u2019CONNOR (National\u2014T\u0101maki):\u003C/span\u003E Thank you very much, Madam Chair.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000537\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022d73f41ec1b684e4793c6a135435b156d\u0022\u003EHon Members\u003C/span\u003E: Oh!\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000538\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00225b6b1d74-9e5e-42ba-a922-85b0ea7f5ab6\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022c5eefee1b14449cba20d6fcd31c633aa\u0022\u003ESIMON O\u2019CONNOR\u003C/span\u003E: There\u2019s disappointment that I\u2019ve been called above others, but look, I\u2019m very pleased to take what I hope is the first of several calls. I\u2019m sure the whip Kieran McAnulty is thrilled to have myself, along with Chris Penk, standing here again on this one to discuss the Land Transport Management (Regional Fuel Tax) Amendment Bill, and in particular a tabled amendment in my name most recently. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000539\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00225b6b1d74-9e5e-42ba-a922-85b0ea7f5ab6\u0022\u003ELook, this is Part 1\u2014this is the meat of the bill\u2014and I don\u2019t intend to, in effect, go into the wider issues. It will be no surprise to this committee\u2014and certainly to my own constituents\u2014that I\u2019m opposed this bill in its whole, but I want to turn my attention, in effect, to how the tax scheme will affect the Auckland region, and in particular a suggestion in my tabled amendment of how that may impact and affect the good people of T\u0101maki, whom I represent. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000540\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00225b6b1d74-9e5e-42ba-a922-85b0ea7f5ab6\u0022\u003EAs context, the people of T\u0101maki pay, in effect, the highest amount of rates in Auckland already. Now, I know this is a Government bill, but the context is important. They already pay an enormous amount of rates. Strangely enough\u2014although not completely misunderstood, particularly with a left-wing council\u2014they get, basically, very little of that money back. We also have a council, of course, that have then gone and put fuel taxes on, along with other levies to come, and so that is the context, then, as we have this Government bill seeking to put even more\u2014even more\u2014taxes on to the good and hard-working people of T\u0101maki. In a recent survey done, granted, by council, but around fuel taxes\u2014and in many ways the people of T\u0101maki, as, I\u2019m sure, those of Auckland and all of New Zealand, are not too fussed if it\u2019s the Government or the council putting the levy or the tax on; it\u2019s just an added cost to their life\u2014the good people of T\u0101maki spoke with a very strong voice that they did not want more fuel taxes. They do not want the Government\u2019s regional fuel tax. They do not want the council\u2019s fuel tax. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000541\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00225b6b1d74-9e5e-42ba-a922-85b0ea7f5ab6\u0022\u003ESo as I was preparing a tabled amendment, my first suggestion was going to be around clause 5, inserting a section around section 65\u2014probably new section 65E\u2014asking that actually T\u0101maki, as a geographical region, be exempt. I thought that was a good idea. In fact, you know, it often pops up in this House that different groups try to make exemptions for their area. Well, T\u0101maki\u2019s a very well-defined area, and I just thought we could be exempt. In fact, I\u2019d like to go further. We\u2019d like to be exempt from a whole lot of things, actually\u2014mainly, the Government in general. We can\u2019t do that. Actually, four people in my electorate\u2014Labour voters\u2014were keen to remain within Government. I\u2019m not so\u2014but I didn\u2019t think that was constructive.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000542\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u002286d95895244b419084cd2399e92ebf20\u0022\u003EHon Member\u003C/span\u003E: He exaggerates. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000543\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00225b6b1d74-9e5e-42ba-a922-85b0ea7f5ab6\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022362cc6a3c1324a939f98b396aa1e6706\u0022\u003ESIMON O\u2019CONNOR\u003C/span\u003E: It might be an exaggeration\u2014I might have been mixed up with some New Zealand First. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000544\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00225b6b1d74-9e5e-42ba-a922-85b0ea7f5ab6\u0022\u003EBut, as I say, the first thought I had was to actually ask that the regional fuel tax not apply to the people of T\u0101maki. I decided to not go down that route. I thought I would attempt to be constructive. I do have some respect for the Minister in the chair, Phil Twyford, and so it is in a spirit of concord and assistance that instead I changed the tabled amendment so that if this regional fuel tax goes ahead\u2014God forbid\u2014actually, some of that money will be put aside to fund a comprehensive upgrade of T\u0101maki Drive. Now, members here will know\u2014certainly my constituents know\u2014for the last few years I have been pushing incredibly hard, through a petition and otherwise, for an upgrade, a comprehensive upgrade, of T\u0101maki Drive. Many in this House, I\u2019m sure, have come up. It\u2019s the best road\u2014well, the road itself is pretty appalling, but in terms of the view from the road it\u2019s quite remarkable. It\u2019s absolutely stunning. In fact, I might throw just a quick line in to Auckland Transport: please don\u2019t use T\u0101maki Drive as a bus park. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000545\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00225b6b1d74-9e5e-42ba-a922-85b0ea7f5ab6\u0022\u003EBut I thought in the spirit of cooperation, I would suggest to the Minister that he may just receive some support from the good, hard-working voters of T\u0101maki for this further imposed regional fuel tax scheme if he commits tonight to fund a comprehensive upgrade of T\u0101maki Drive. The Minister will be delighted\u2014I\u2019m sure he is just beside himself with joy at the moment\u2014to know that there is a very good plan in place for T\u0101maki Drive. The implementation of the regional fuel tax would be relatively easy. This is not unplanned. It is uncosted, but I\u2019m relatively confident, with the huge amount of money that this regional fuel tax is going to draw in, that in fact T\u0101maki Drive will be well upgraded for all people who use it, from the buses to the rowers, to the cyclists, to the walkers, and to the mums with perambulators and those who wish to go for a pericombobulation at this time of the day\u2014\u201Cpericombobulation\u201D, for Hansard. It\u2019s a way forward, Minister. I hope you would consider it. Look, the people of T\u0101maki are generally not friends of the Labour Party, but you might just buy one extra vote in T\u0101maki by supporting this tabled amendment.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u00229eef65cd-ce82-441c-af1b-954ea0782a04\u0022 data-id=\u0022ce9ba3c4a6674812b243d2233486bd0f\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000546\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00229eef65cd-ce82-441c-af1b-954ea0782a04\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u0022ce9ba3c4a6674812b243d2233486bd0f\u0022\u003EJAN TINETTI (Labour):\u003C/span\u003E I move, That the question be now put.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u0022094b0ff4-e404-451b-b4a9-ad12bd4dee56\u0022 data-id=\u00226f9b20ffd4004efd8410354e92912f48\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000547\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022094b0ff4-e404-451b-b4a9-ad12bd4dee56\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u00226f9b20ffd4004efd8410354e92912f48\u0022\u003ESTUART SMITH (National\u2014Kaik\u014Dura):\u003C/span\u003E Thank you, Madam Chair. Well, it\u2019s my first call in this\u2014I hope I get a number more on this particular bill. But I have an amendment in my name to exclude the area of the Marlborough District Council from this legislation, and the reason I do that is for the concern of my constituents. In the Marlborough Sounds, people who live on D\u2019Urville Island face not just a boat trip but a car trip to buy their groceries. They\u2019ll be driving for 2\u00BD hours and they\u2019ll have to go across French Pass in order to get in the car and drive into the fine town of Blenheim to get their groceries, and that\u2019s a huge extra cost that they will have to pay. It\u2019s a cost that they have to bear and, unfortunately, there isn\u2019t a tram or a trolley, and I\u2019m unaware of any plans to put a trolley or a tram out to D\u2019Urville Island.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000548\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00228a1cb04e-8a86-44d1-9004-6e158e220339\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u00227da0e0263b814b4390c6c5fdc95ab606\u0022\u003EHon Tim Macindoe\u003C/span\u003E: Don\u2019t they matter?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000549\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022094b0ff4-e404-451b-b4a9-ad12bd4dee56\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022816beb625df94aa1be76c4c211101bb6\u0022\u003ESTUART SMITH\u003C/span\u003E: Well, you would wonder. The member raises a very good point that, actually, people who live in regional New Zealand, they matter. Actually, they are the ones that are the buttresses for our economy, and they ensure that the rest of us have a standard of living that we all are able to strive for and we expect in this country. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000550\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022094b0ff4-e404-451b-b4a9-ad12bd4dee56\u0022\u003EFortunately, on this side of the House, we stand for regional New Zealand and we understand regional New Zealand. It\u2019s a great pity\u2014it\u2019s a great pity\u2014that \u201CMatua Shane\u201D, he needs to come out to regional New Zealand and actually learn something about it, because there\u2019s a lot that makes regional New Zealand tick that he does not understand. I\u2019m surprised there, Mark Patterson, that you haven\u2019t actually helped him out with that, but never mind. I will endeavour to help educate him tonight, because the costs are disproportionate on people who live hours away from a shopping centre to do their weekly shop. They can\u2019t do it daily because of the time it would cost and the fuel costs that this bill would impose on top of people\u2019s day-to-day living costs. It\u2019s simply inequitable.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000551\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022094b0ff4-e404-451b-b4a9-ad12bd4dee56\u0022\u003EBut it\u2019s more than the Marlborough Sounds, as important as they are. If we go up the Awatere Valley, for example, it\u2019s another two-hour drive to get your groceries, going in the other direction. Those people all worthy New Zealanders who deserve to have a fair standard of living, and you\u2019re taking it away from them\u2014that\u2019s what you\u2019re doing. You\u2019re adding costs on to people\u2014\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000552\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022977cccaf-581d-4f48-924e-32bf6c54a93d\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u002294de310293fa45fdbaad49002114334d\u0022\u003ECHAIRPERSON (Hon Anne Tolley)\u003C/span\u003E: I\u2019m not.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000553\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022094b0ff4-e404-451b-b4a9-ad12bd4dee56\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022f91cad2c8e904d54820002d282b40a33\u0022\u003ESTUART SMITH\u003C/span\u003E: Not the chair, Madam Chair\u2014of course not you.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000554\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022a1f7bbd1-b6ae-41c0-963b-dbe1251f5540\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u002246d0c07266f64af484f9f66a663917c0\u0022\u003EKieran McAnulty\u003C/span\u003E: Amateur.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000555\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022094b0ff4-e404-451b-b4a9-ad12bd4dee56\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022bed083d035244b99adbf093855180b7d\u0022\u003ESTUART SMITH\u003C/span\u003E: Well, that\u2019s right\u2014it is an amateur bill. I totally agree with you, Kieran McAnulty. It is amateur hour in the Government, and it\u2019s quite obvious to see. I mean, question time today was bad enough, but this is just ridiculous, this bill, I\u2019d have to say. And when we see the costs that would be disproportionately pushed on to these hard-working New Zealanders, it is just ridiculous. I think it\u2019s a very regressive tax anyway, and I would have thought those people living in South Auckland would have been the ones that that party across the way would have been most concerned about, but it doesn\u2019t appear to be the case. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000556\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022094b0ff4-e404-451b-b4a9-ad12bd4dee56\u0022\u003ECan I say also, in the farming sector this fuel cost will be borne on them, and they operate in a world commodity market and are unable to pass those costs down the line. It\u2019s simply taking a little bit more out of their bottom line every time they fill they tractor and every time they fill the truck or the car or the farm quad. That is just simply not an equitable tax, and I can\u2019t believe that one of the parties across that way who purports to support regional New Zealand doesn\u2019t understand that very simple fact.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000557\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022094b0ff4-e404-451b-b4a9-ad12bd4dee56\u0022\u003EThen if we turn to the small fishing businesses and aquaculture, who are also totally reliant on fuel in their boats to go out and put food on the family table and to supply fish in the markets for all of New Zealand and the benefit of all New Zealanders, they are paying a very heavy price because of this misguided\u2014and I can\u2019t really understand why they have thought about this, because councils could actually cut that amount of money out of their expenditure if they simply focused on it. Businesses do know how to cut costs because they have competition. Councils are not a business. They are not actually able to focus on how to get fat out of a system and be more efficient. They\u2019re certainly not noted for being the most efficient entities in this country.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u0022fdb01002-a7cf-4a77-8f05-678d24a36849\u0022 data-id=\u0022724e413572824a3194e62977f61a104e\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000558\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022fdb01002-a7cf-4a77-8f05-678d24a36849\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u0022724e413572824a3194e62977f61a104e\u0022\u003ETODD MULLER (National\u2014Bay of Plenty):\u003C/span\u003E Thank you very much, Madam Chair. I rise to give my very first of, no doubt, many contributions in this extraordinary debate this afternoon. It absolutely does need comprehensive consideration and discussion. I can see the members on the other side shaking their heads. Well, this is a very flawed piece of legislation\u2014very flawed. Quite frankly, I\u2019ve heard it on a couple of occasions, in terms of the contributions so far this evening. If you knew how to run an economy as a Government, you wouldn\u2019t need to be able to put a bill like this saying that we need to tax New Zealand to be able to fund roads in Auckland, and what\u2019s worse\u2014as my colleague Nick Smith has expressed from his constituents\u2019 perspective, tax the regions to fund the roads in Auckland. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000559\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022fdb01002-a7cf-4a77-8f05-678d24a36849\u0022\u003EIt\u2019s very, very poor legislation, but I accept that if you look across and listen to the arguments of the Government, it is likely that across their very, very slim coalition of three parties they may well have the numbers to get this poor piece of legislation through. So it\u2019s incumbent on us to look for opportunities to take a very poor piece of legislation and improve it.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000560\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022fdb01002-a7cf-4a77-8f05-678d24a36849\u0022\u003ESo in that spirit of goodwill, I suggest an amendment in my name, which is affecting clause 5, and specifically relates to a new section 65EA, which makes it categorically clear that any regional fuel tax proposal that seeks to establish a regional fuel tax in the Bay of Plenty region must propose to fund the roading of our particular region. This is a very, very critical point, because the region of the Bay of Plenty\u2014and in particular my community of Tauranga\u2014has an absolute expectation that the road from Katikati all the way through to Tauranga will have a road of national significance, and has an expectation that if a regional fuel tax does get passed, then we have the opportunity, in time, to be able to ensure that any regional taxation from our community gets spent on that road, and my goodness me, does that road and that infrastructure need investment.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000561\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022fdb01002-a7cf-4a77-8f05-678d24a36849\u0022\u003EIn fact, the previous Government had the first quarter of that road, called the Tauranga Northern Link, already at the tender stage.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000562\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022eaf79431-1033-44f1-a633-22633da52c0d\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022ec8196d91f494d618f9b9a8106621b5f\u0022\u003EHon David Bennett\u003C/span\u003E: What happened?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000563\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022fdb01002-a7cf-4a77-8f05-678d24a36849\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u00220863c117e5344d0dbd91ee5127d21d60\u0022\u003ETODD MULLER\u003C/span\u003E: Quite remarkably, that has been stopped. It is an absolute disgrace. There are accidents every week on that stretch of road\u2014650 accidents in the last seven years. It was at the tender stage, and because of the incompetence, I would argue, of the policy setting of this Government, this has not been able to be progressed.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000564\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022fdb01002-a7cf-4a77-8f05-678d24a36849\u0022\u003ESo it is absolutely critical that if this flawed legislation passes, legislation that is going to tax New Zealanders and tax the regions, then certainly I have an expectation that the region of the Bay of Plenty, through this, I think, well-thought-through amendment to insert new section 65EA\u2014and I commend it to the Government side. They seem quite distracted at the moment, looking at the ceiling. It\u2019ll be an opportunity for reflect on the good thinking that underpins this particular amendment that enables my region to be able to get access to this funding and to be able to build a road that will change people\u2019s lives from the moment that it gets built.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000565\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022fdb01002-a7cf-4a77-8f05-678d24a36849\u0022\u003EI can see the smiles on the other side, but this actually counts. In actual regional New Zealand, this counts. It actually means something to stand behind a commitment and say, \u201CIf we\u2019re going to build it, we build it.\u201D We said that we would build this road. You guys come along and say, \u201CYou know what? We\u2019re not going to build it, and we\u2019re going to spend the money up in Auckland. And\u201D\u2014what\u2019s worse\u2014\u201Cwe\u2019re going to put the capacity to charge the regions to fund the Auckland roads.\u201D And then you have the audacity to shout across the Chamber and say this is the way we should run infrastructure funding in New Zealand.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000566\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022fdb01002-a7cf-4a77-8f05-678d24a36849\u0022\u003EIt is flawed. It is absolutely flawed and, in my opinion, it does not pass the smell test of a Government that\u2019s done the thinking. It\u2019s been rushed, and what\u2019s worse, Madam Chair, is that the good Minister to your right, the Hon Phil Twyford, hasn\u2019t had the respect to be able to come down and see this road with his own eyes, despite being asked specifically by me to attend.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u002226b88bf1-f634-40e7-8019-e75cc483ace7\u0022 data-id=\u0022bac5cbf5f2d94eadaa8096699c6673c8\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000567\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002226b88bf1-f634-40e7-8019-e75cc483ace7\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u0022bac5cbf5f2d94eadaa8096699c6673c8\u0022\u003EJO LUXTON (Labour):\u003C/span\u003E I move, That the question be now put.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u0022977cccaf-581d-4f48-924e-32bf6c54a93d\u0022 data-id=\u0022a73b1b6626c846bca240235e121aa132\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000568\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022977cccaf-581d-4f48-924e-32bf6c54a93d\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u0022a73b1b6626c846bca240235e121aa132\u0022\u003ECHAIRPERSON (Hon Anne Tolley)\u003C/span\u003E: I call Erica Stanford.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000569\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022e8eed47707474c6ebbfeeeeb833d3000\u0022\u003EHon Members\u003C/span\u003E: It\u2019s Denise Lee.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000570\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022977cccaf-581d-4f48-924e-32bf6c54a93d\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022648fa65142364949ab36150d151f1c4c\u0022\u003ECHAIRPERSON (Hon Anne Tolley)\u003C/span\u003E: Oh, sorry. I beg your pardon.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u0022943fd636-21ec-4442-9a72-68c49464776f\u0022 data-id=\u0022850a4b09c37b45359187cebcd8918705\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000571\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022943fd636-21ec-4442-9a72-68c49464776f\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u0022850a4b09c37b45359187cebcd8918705\u0022\u003EDENISE LEE (National\u2014Maungakiekie):\u003C/span\u003E That\u2019s not the first time and it won\u2019t be the last. I\u2019m 10 years Erica Stanford\u2019s senior, so I\u2019m happy with that, thanks very much.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000572\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022977cccaf-581d-4f48-924e-32bf6c54a93d\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u00228abb8e028308433fbbb690d54bc7294f\u0022\u003ECHAIRPERSON (Hon Anne Tolley)\u003C/span\u003E: My apologies.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000573\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u00229af66fddc57a49edb072176229752bca\u0022\u003EHon Member\u003C/span\u003E: That\u2019s a good amendment.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000574\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022943fd636-21ec-4442-9a72-68c49464776f\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022a242ce47927b4b448b59f22ba7bc862a\u0022\u003EDENISE LEE\u003C/span\u003E: Ha! That is a good amendment.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000575\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022977cccaf-581d-4f48-924e-32bf6c54a93d\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u00227b7fb0222a754a428301920177af6824\u0022\u003ECHAIRPERSON (Hon Anne Tolley)\u003C/span\u003E: I need to put my glasses on.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000576\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022943fd636-21ec-4442-9a72-68c49464776f\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u002274938f81fe5840ca87bc761b6c926cce\u0022\u003EDENISE LEE\u003C/span\u003E: Madam Chair, thank you so much for allowing me to take the call. I want to speak to an amendment in my name, and I\u2019m very, very happy to have this amendment tabled. It is amending new section 65A in clause 5. There are a number of amendments tonight that are tabling exemptions to new section 65A. Some of those are the commercial farming operations\u2014so exemptions for farming operations undertaken commercially\u2014commercial tourism operations that occur off road, and also commercial horticultural activities. So they\u2019re all amendments for exemptions under some of my colleagues\u2019 names, but I\u2019m incredibly proud tonight to have a particular amendment to new section 65A for an exemption for any vehicle that is primarily operated by members of, and for the purposes of, a registered charity.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000577\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022943fd636-21ec-4442-9a72-68c49464776f\u0022\u003EAs we might know and imagine tonight here, volunteering is an essential element of our society, of a civil society. We need volunteers to turn New Zealand around and keep the cogs turning. All New Zealanders at one stage in their lives, they\u2019re going to volunteer somehow, in some way, shape, or form. We\u2019re all the beneficiaries\u2014aren\u2019t we\u2014and have experienced volunteerism in the assistance and aid into our own lives. Sometimes they\u2019re families, sometimes they\u2019re friends\u2014direct or indirect, we\u2019re beneficiaries.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000578\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022943fd636-21ec-4442-9a72-68c49464776f\u0022\u003ENew Zealand has 97,000 non-profit organisations contributing 2.6 percent to our GDP, so the case for and the basis for honouring our volunteers is incredibly strong. It increases that contribution to GDP to 4.9 percent, if you take into account the volunteer labour contribution, which is equivalent to the entire construction sector. So this is the volume and the importance of what volunteers do, and who are they are for New Zealand, and need I underscore that this week is National Volunteer Week, \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000579\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u00228392d4e482734b319ec38ebb93fbacdf\u0022\u003EHon Members\u003C/span\u003E: Oh!\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000580\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022943fd636-21ec-4442-9a72-68c49464776f\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u00227e3e544ae47046558079e47ec6511c97\u0022\u003EDENISE LEE\u003C/span\u003E: Yes it is. There are more than 1.2 million volunteers, who give more than 270 million hours of unpaid labour to the sector\u20141.2 million volunteers. Let\u2019s isolate it now, for the purposes of this bill, to Auckland. Auckland would have a huge, substantial chunk of those volunteers operating and volunteering and giving their amazing efforts and energy, heart, and care into Auckland.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000581\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022943fd636-21ec-4442-9a72-68c49464776f\u0022\u003EThe voluntary sector for New Zealand often competes for reducing pools of volunteers. Unfortunately, that\u2019s where society is going. It\u2019s tough yards out there to get volunteers, and as a result they\u2019re having to rely on being more creative to garner those volunteers. So wouldn\u2019t it be good if the Minister accepted my amendment, which asks for something quite straightforward, quite simple, and that is to allow any vehicle primarily operated by members of, and for the purposes of, a registered charity to be locked and loaded for\u2014and volunteers that we honour and that we want to have still engaged in Auckland. Of course, we all know that this fuel tax is going wider to the country, so we\u2019re also talking about volunteers all around the country.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000582\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022943fd636-21ec-4442-9a72-68c49464776f\u0022\u003EThe Government has so far not been willing to admit how hard this fuel tax will hit low-income earners. Perhaps they\u2019ll be willing to admit that this amendment would be of assistance to volunteers. They will be hit. Now, I ran a charitable organisation\u2014in fact, I co-founded one myself\u2014so I know full well, in Auckland, what it takes to get around, to be stuck in traffic, and to need to take up some of those precious resources that voluntary organisations have. So this small measure, which would go a huge way to support volunteers in this National Volunteer Week, is something that we implore the Minister and the Government to pick up tonight. When it comes time to vote, do the right thing and support volunteer organisations. Thank you.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u002218f9e3ea-81c5-4414-af48-d6bb843a9227\u0022 data-id=\u0022855ed39fdff94123b8042a84ca565c7d\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000583\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002218f9e3ea-81c5-4414-af48-d6bb843a9227\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u0022855ed39fdff94123b8042a84ca565c7d\u0022\u003EMELISSA LEE (National):\u003C/span\u003E Thank you, Madam Chair. It\u2019s a pleasure to rise to speak on this bill. This is my first opportunity, and I hope to actually speak in this debate. Considering the fact that I have never done this before\u2014table an amendment in my name\u2014I hope I don\u2019t completely cock it up. I haven\u2019t actually felt so passionate about other bills as I have about this. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000584\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002218f9e3ea-81c5-4414-af48-d6bb843a9227\u0022\u003EDo you know, one of the things was that I was actually sitting when other members have talked about it, and I have to say that the member who just sat down is my sister from another mother\u2014Denise Lee. You know, I agree with her in terms of the exemption, and my amendment is also to clause 5. It is to amend the definition of \u201Cexempt use\u201D in new section 65A, and it will add paragraph (f) to the definition. What it basically does is\u2014apart from the volunteers, as my learned colleague Denise Lee has said, I would like to include emergency services like the New Zealand Police, the fire service, the St John\u2019s Ambulance service, and the Wellington Free Ambulance service as well, because they have such a little pot of money. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000585\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002218f9e3ea-81c5-4414-af48-d6bb843a9227\u0022\u003ERecently, I was at a fund-raiser for the St John\u2019s Ambulance service that the ethnic communities do\u2014actually, it is a Taiwanese businesswomen\u2019s association that does a fund-raising event for them. Every so often, they do this fund-raising dinner and they raise enough money\u2014just enough money\u2014to deliver them a rapid-response vehicle for the St John\u2019s Ambulance. Because St John\u2019s Ambulance is not completely funded, they rely on donations and on the goodness of the community to actually deliver for them, and to slap another tax on these people\u2014the police, the fire service, St John\u2019s Ambulance, the Wellington Free Ambulance service\u2014is shameful. It is an absolute shame that this Government wants to tax these services that do an amazing job for New Zealanders. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000586\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002218f9e3ea-81c5-4414-af48-d6bb843a9227\u0022\u003EI mean, what I think should actually happen is that the current Mayor of Auckland should not be spending almost a million dollars deciding whether there is actually feasibility in moving Eden Park to downtown Auckland\u2014spending almost a million dollars in consulting to decide whether Eden Park should go to downtown Auckland. Instead, now he actually wants to tax\u2014this Government wants to tax ordinary New Zealanders for their petrol, including these emergency services, who do an amazing job. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000587\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002218f9e3ea-81c5-4414-af48-d6bb843a9227\u0022\u003EI believe that the emergency services should be excluded from the tax that this Government is trying to put on all of New Zealand. The police service\u2014you know, having actually talked about the police and praised them before, they do an absolutely amazing job. They are there when people need them. Every single emergency worker puts\u2014\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000588\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00227940e9f2-9cea-43d5-8f16-3b470e34f47f\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u002261d623fb30314f46b63da4e85c891b00\u0022\u003EMatt King\u003C/span\u003E: They catch the crims and lock \u2019em up. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000589\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002218f9e3ea-81c5-4414-af48-d6bb843a9227\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022af74db5be19c4483ac9dafc78f0fddb0\u0022\u003EMELISSA LEE\u003C/span\u003E: \u2014their life on the line. Actually, the police\u2014they do. They have done that. You know, I have been a victim of crime\u2014I have actually said that in this House before\u2014when I had a home invasion in my house, and I was ringing the emergency services. They were there so fast, and were having to calm me down to make sure that I wasn\u2019t actually going irrational and that I was talking to them. I think they should not be taxed extra fuel tax for the great work that they do. I mean, considering the fact that there are thousands of vehicles operating\u2014whether it\u2019s the fire trucks or the police cars or the ambulances, there are so many cars on our roads that do amazing work for these organisations, and I do not believe that they should be taxed. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000590\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002218f9e3ea-81c5-4414-af48-d6bb843a9227\u0022\u003ESo I\u2019d like to table my amendment in my name in the committee stage to amend new section 65A, to add a new paragraph (f) under the definition of \u201Cexempt use\u201D, to make sure that all of the emergency services such as the fire service, the New Zealand Police, the St John\u2019s Ambulance service, and the Wellington Free Ambulance services\u2014and any others that I haven\u2019t actually thought about, hopefully\u2014are exempt from this tax. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u0022071f7800-2755-41b6-83df-07ebaf867ae2\u0022 data-id=\u0022bab1b4ba075749cc8febc7ddb4340c07\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000591\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022071f7800-2755-41b6-83df-07ebaf867ae2\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u0022bab1b4ba075749cc8febc7ddb4340c07\u0022\u003ETIM VAN DE MOLEN (National\u2014Waikato):\u003C/span\u003E Thank you, Madam Chair. A very timely call, because my proposed amendment in my name actually follows on quite nicely from what we have just heard from Melissa Lee. I am proposing a further amendment under new section 65A in clause 5 to incorporate any vehicle or equipment that is primarily operated for the purposes of and in the course of operations for the New Zealand Defence Force (NZDF). Having been a member of the New Zealand Defence Force for a number of years, I can certainly understand and appreciate the need for an exemption in this space.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000592\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022071f7800-2755-41b6-83df-07ebaf867ae2\u0022\u003EFirstly, I\u2019d like to start by acknowledging the fantastic work that all members of our New Zealand Defence Force conduct, both onshore and offshore, in their roles and their service for New Zealand. Further to that, I think it\u2019s appropriate to acknowledge that to be operationally ready, which the New Zealand Defence Force always aims to be, it takes significant ongoing training to maintain, develop, and enhance those skills.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000593\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022071f7800-2755-41b6-83df-07ebaf867ae2\u0022\u003ENow any aspect of that training, typically, will incorporate some form of vehicle. Logistics is a huge part of any defence operation. Without logistics, you don\u2019t have a firm base to shift you around to get where you need to be to achieve what you want to get done. So that is a major part of any operation, and when we conduct training exercises, there\u2019s a detailed budget that is worked through at the officer level to determine what the costings are for any specific training exercise. Of course, fuel comes into that as well, and so in this particular instance, I think it\u2019s really important to acknowledge the need to exempt the New Zealand Defence Force from this regional fuel tax, because otherwise we\u2019re just going to see an additional cost burden on them that, actually, they have no further income to offset, and to enable them to continue to provide the expected level of training and competencies that they are tasked to achieve.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000594\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022071f7800-2755-41b6-83df-07ebaf867ae2\u0022\u003ENow if you consider the Auckland region covered by this fuel tax, there are, of course, a number of bases operating within that region, and also a number of other training areas that are utilised by the NZDF for a range of different tasks and operations. So it\u2019s really important that we have the ability to exempt them so that they can conduct training per their expected level of competence to make sure that they maintain that operational readiness, not simply for deployments offshore but, of course, to make sure that we\u2019re able to respond in any civil defence emergencies as well. Actually, it was disappointing to note in the Budget that we had recently that there was not a significant increase for the New Zealand Defence Force, despite what we had heard from the Minister of Defence, Ron Mark, earlier on.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000595\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022071f7800-2755-41b6-83df-07ebaf867ae2\u0022\u003ELook, I would just note that having this additional burden placed on their budgets from a training perspective in terms of the additional fuel costs would make it significantly harder to actually achieve their desired outcomes from a training perspective, and that\u2019s really important when we look at what budget is set within the NZDF structure for specific training exercises, etc. So that would be one area that I\u2019d really encourage Minister Phil Twyford to consider exempting, and I would welcome any feedback he has on that, if he is to take another call.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000596\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022071f7800-2755-41b6-83df-07ebaf867ae2\u0022\u003ENow, another amendment I had under my name was with regard to the same clause 5, new section 65A, another exemption that I think is appropriate\u2014in this case, to exempt any vehicles used in the course of commercial tourism operations that occur off-road. So we\u2019re talking here about four-wheel drive tours, quad bike tours, two-wheel motorbike tours, etc. There\u2019s a number of operators around the Auckland region that would fall under this category: places like Scenic Off-Road 4x4 Tours, Trackwise 4WD, the Waiheke BBQ Tour, Waiheke Safaris, 4 Track Adventures\u2014all these tourism operators, who contribute significantly to the overall tourism income that we as New Zealand enjoy, and who would be captured by this tax as well. So I think it\u2019s important to exempt them, given that they are not using our roading network for any of their specific tours or operating aspects of their business conduct. So that would be another area that I would ask the Minister to consider exempting as well.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000597\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022071f7800-2755-41b6-83df-07ebaf867ae2\u0022\u003EJust on that aspect, from the tourism side, of course, we\u2019ve just heard a recent announcement around including now a tourism tax for people coming into the country, and now we\u2019re talking about\u2014if these operators were not exempted\u2014having an additional cost to operating their business, which would most likely be passed on to the end user. So we\u2019ve got tourists coming in and being hit with a new tax and hit with an increased cost as well. So I\u2019d encourage exemption for that amendment as well.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u0022f7fc7ac3-5ce1-43ca-8cd6-dbb0941bf3ae\u0022 data-id=\u002240cec2addd9644309929295a7d8ea64e\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000598\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022f7fc7ac3-5ce1-43ca-8cd6-dbb0941bf3ae\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u002240cec2addd9644309929295a7d8ea64e\u0022\u003EDr DUNCAN WEBB (Labour\u2014Christchurch Central):\u003C/span\u003E I move, That the question be now put.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca id=\u00227fd47f06d16b4150a0ac08d5c85ed480\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 question be now put.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp class=\u0022HpsDivision\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsItem\u0022\u003EAyes 63\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp class=\u0022HpsDivision\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsItem\u0022\u003ENew Zealand Labour 46; New Zealand First 9; Green Party 8.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp class=\u0022HpsDivision\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsItem\u0022\u003ENoes 56\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp class=\u0022HpsDivision\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsItem\u0022\u003ENew Zealand National 55; ACT New Zealand 1.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp class=\u0022HpsDivision\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsItem\u0022\u003EMotion agreed to.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u0022977cccaf-581d-4f48-924e-32bf6c54a93d\u0022 data-id=\u00225aae7b6b9f8a47358f7f3b80b1bc4de7\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000599\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022977cccaf-581d-4f48-924e-32bf6c54a93d\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u00225aae7b6b9f8a47358f7f3b80b1bc4de7\u0022\u003EDEPUTY SPEAKER\u003C/span\u003E: I just ask members to bear with me while we go through the voting. We will take it slowly to make sure that every amendment is addressed.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000600\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022aa65c8e785bc4946b802bf6b8031d5ac\u0022\u003EHon Member\u003C/span\u003E: Fair call. Don\u2019t want to confuse them.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000601\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022977cccaf-581d-4f48-924e-32bf6c54a93d\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u002283c8ee8584ed45de98a6aabafd6f3348\u0022\u003EDEPUTY SPEAKER\u003C/span\u003E: Or me.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000602\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022977cccaf-581d-4f48-924e-32bf6c54a93d\u0022\u003EThe question was put that the amendments set out on Supplementary Order Paper 43 in the name of the Hon Phil Twyford to clause 5 be agreed to.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca id=\u002258446707e8264e548b3905c03fd6b528\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 amendments be agreed to.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp class=\u0022HpsDivision\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsItem\u0022\u003EAyes 63\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp class=\u0022HpsDivision\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsItem\u0022\u003ENew Zealand Labour 46; New Zealand First 9; Green Party 8.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp class=\u0022HpsDivision\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsItem\u0022\u003ENoes 56\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp class=\u0022HpsDivision\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsItem\u0022\u003ENew Zealand National 55; ACT New Zealand 1.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp class=\u0022HpsDivision\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsItem\u0022\u003EAmendments agreed to.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000603\u0022\u003EThe question was put that the following amendment in the name of Matt King to clause 5 be agreed to: \u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000604\u0022\u003Ein the definition of exempt use in new section 65A, insert after paragraph (e) the following paragraph:\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000605\u0022\u003E(f)\tuse in any vehicle that is primarily used for commercial horticultural activities.\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca id=\u0022c329de8a23e34acb8992da738c013a5b\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 amendment be agreed to.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp class=\u0022HpsDivision\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsItem\u0022\u003EAyes 55\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp class=\u0022HpsDivision\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsItem\u0022\u003ENew Zealand National 55.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp class=\u0022HpsDivision\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsItem\u0022\u003ENoes 63\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp class=\u0022HpsDivision\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsItem\u0022\u003ENew Zealand Labour 46; New Zealand First 9; Green Party 8.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp class=\u0022HpsDivision\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsItem\u0022\u003EAmendment not agreed to.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000606\u0022\u003EThe question was put that the following amendment in the name of Tim van de Molen to clause 5 be agreed to: \u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000607\u0022\u003Ein the definition of exempt use in new section 65A, insert after paragraph (e) the following paragraph:\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000608\u0022\u003E(f)\tuse in the course of any commercial tourism operation that occurs off-road,\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca id=\u002250cde07a6ade45a6870283996f38d536\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 amendment be agreed to.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp class=\u0022HpsDivision\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsItem\u0022\u003EAyes 55\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp class=\u0022HpsDivision\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsItem\u0022\u003ENew Zealand National 55.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp class=\u0022HpsDivision\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsItem\u0022\u003ENoes 63\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp class=\u0022HpsDivision\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsItem\u0022\u003ENew Zealand Labour 46; New Zealand First 9; Green Party 8.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp class=\u0022HpsDivision\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsItem\u0022\u003EAmendment not agreed to.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000609\u0022\u003EThe question was put that the following amendment in the name of Tim van de Molen to clause 5 be agreed to: \u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000610\u0022\u003Ein the definition of exempt use in new section 65A, insert after paragraph (e) the following paragraph:\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000611\u0022\u003E(f)\tany use of recreational marine activities.\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca id=\u0022561dbb76f8a746cab7386d5d03b67adf\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 amendment be agreed to.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp class=\u0022HpsDivision\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsItem\u0022\u003EAyes 55\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp class=\u0022HpsDivision\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsItem\u0022\u003ENew Zealand National 55.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp class=\u0022HpsDivision\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsItem\u0022\u003ENoes 63\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp class=\u0022HpsDivision\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsItem\u0022\u003ENew Zealand Labour 46; New Zealand First 9; Green Party 8.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp class=\u0022HpsDivision\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsItem\u0022\u003EAmendment not agreed to.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000612\u0022\u003EThe question was put that the following amendment in the name of the Hon Nathan Guy to clause 5 be agreed to: \u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000613\u0022\u003Ein the definition of exempt use in new section 65A, insert after paragraph (e) the following paragraph:\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000614\u0022\u003E(f)\tuse by any vehicle that is primarily operated during the course of commercial farming operations.\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca id=\u00226d4d55126ea24aca860ad71e6ceb6206\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 amendment be agreed to.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp class=\u0022HpsDivision\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsItem\u0022\u003EAyes 55\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp class=\u0022HpsDivision\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsItem\u0022\u003ENew Zealand National 55.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp class=\u0022HpsDivision\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsItem\u0022\u003ENoes 63\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp class=\u0022HpsDivision\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsItem\u0022\u003ENew Zealand Labour 46; New Zealand First 9; Green Party 8.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp class=\u0022HpsDivision\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsItem\u0022\u003EAmendment not agreed to.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000615\u0022\u003EThe question was put that the following amendment in the name of Lawrence Yule to clause 5 be agreed to: \u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000616\u0022\u003Ein the definition of exempt use in new section 65A, insert after paragraph (e) the following paragraph:\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000617\u0022\u003E(f)\tany use for commercial horticultural activities.\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca id=\u0022c7777925e13e4587b06056ccc74c94a3\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 amendment be agreed to.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp class=\u0022HpsDivision\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsItem\u0022\u003EAyes 55\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp class=\u0022HpsDivision\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsItem\u0022\u003ENew Zealand National 55.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp class=\u0022HpsDivision\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsItem\u0022\u003ENoes 63\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp class=\u0022HpsDivision\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsItem\u0022\u003ENew Zealand Labour 46; New Zealand First 9; Green Party 8.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp class=\u0022HpsDivision\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsItem\u0022\u003EAmendment not agreed to.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u00221dbd2811-8e58-4ffb-848d-31c0eaa9690a\u0022 data-id=\u0022a9fd9af892394261a764cbab202020ff\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000618\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00221dbd2811-8e58-4ffb-848d-31c0eaa9690a\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u0022a9fd9af892394261a764cbab202020ff\u0022\u003EHon CHRIS HIPKINS (Leader of the House):\u003C/span\u003E I raise a point of order, Madam Chairperson. Under Speaker\u2019s ruling 117/2\u2014a ruling made by Speaker Smith back in 2010\u2014where the committee has negatived a number of amendments that have substantially the same effect, the Chair can, effectively, rule further amendments to do the same thing out of order. The committee has now voted down a series of amendments, all, effectively, doing the same thing but with a slightly different effect in that they exempt a different group of people\u2014[Interruption] \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000619\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022977cccaf-581d-4f48-924e-32bf6c54a93d\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u002266f3adfbf88447cd923bf5535a2a0eca\u0022\u003ECHAIRPERSON (Hon Anne Tolley)\u003C/span\u003E: Points of order are heard in silence.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000620\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00221dbd2811-8e58-4ffb-848d-31c0eaa9690a\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u002296d52b12f5764bfdaf5eb86f599d7452\u0022\u003EHon CHRIS HIPKINS\u003C/span\u003E: Therefore, I\u2019ll put it to you, Madam Chair, that you would now consider\u2014in the spirit of the wider ruling that goes with this ruling that Speaker Smith made at the time, which was to stop the committee having to contend for hours on end with dealing with very similar amendments\u2014ruling the remaining amendments out of order.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u00228a1cb04e-8a86-44d1-9004-6e158e220339\u0022 data-id=\u002247d0b985c57c43c2b4f7c87944efcf95\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000621\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00228a1cb04e-8a86-44d1-9004-6e158e220339\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u002247d0b985c57c43c2b4f7c87944efcf95\u0022\u003EHon TIM MACINDOE (National\u2014Hamilton West):\u003C/span\u003E I notice that the Leader of the House has just suggested that all of the amendments have been similar in nature, but, in fact, the amendment that we are voting on at the moment in my name refers to commercial rural purposes, which is substantially different from the horticultural amendments that we have voted on previously. If we were to say that all of those should be conflated in that way, then there really wouldn\u2019t be any point in considering amendments at all. Yet my colleagues have tonight put forward a vast array of amendments across a substantially wide range of topics, and I would suggest to you that it\u2019s a cute attempt by the Leader of the House, but it certainly doesn\u2019t apply to these amendments.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u0022977cccaf-581d-4f48-924e-32bf6c54a93d\u0022 data-id=\u0022c8b8044a22674a28b8f428d8723d095b\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000622\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022977cccaf-581d-4f48-924e-32bf6c54a93d\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u0022c8b8044a22674a28b8f428d8723d095b\u0022\u003ECHAIRPERSON (Hon Anne Tolley)\u003C/span\u003E: I thank the members. The question of the number of different amendments that have been put and whether they have all had the same effect is actually for the Chair to decide, and, in fairness, to compare it with the ruling that Speaker Smith gave, when we were considering 30,000 as against less than a dozen, is hardly a fair comparison. However, I do take the point, and I did consider it and decided that the exemptions requested were different enough that it was worthwhile proceeding.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000623\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022977cccaf-581d-4f48-924e-32bf6c54a93d\u0022\u003EThe question was put that the following amendment in the name of the Hon Tim Macindoe to clause 5 be agreed to: \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000624\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022977cccaf-581d-4f48-924e-32bf6c54a93d\u0022\u003Ein the definition of exempt use in new section 65A, insert after paragraph (e) the following paragraph:\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000625\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022977cccaf-581d-4f48-924e-32bf6c54a93d\u0022\u003E(f)\tany use for commercial rural activities.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca id=\u002242adc99574df4b2580072c9039b84098\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 amendment be agreed to.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp class=\u0022HpsDivision\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsItem\u0022\u003EAyes 55\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp class=\u0022HpsDivision\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsItem\u0022\u003ENew Zealand National 55.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp class=\u0022HpsDivision\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsItem\u0022\u003ENoes 63\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp class=\u0022HpsDivision\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsItem\u0022\u003ENew Zealand Labour 46; New Zealand First 9; Green Party 8.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp class=\u0022HpsDivision\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsItem\u0022\u003EAmendment not agreed to.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000626\u0022\u003EThe question was put that the following amendment in the name of Jami-Lee Ross to clause 5 be agreed to:\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000627\u0022\u003Ein the definition of exempt use in new section 65A, insert after paragraph (e) the following paragraph:\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000628\u0022\u003E(f)\tany use of recreational aircraft.\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca id=\u00223c3d0ed04c6e4dac907931cf3accc09a\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 amendment be agreed to.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp class=\u0022HpsDivision\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsItem\u0022\u003EAyes 55\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp class=\u0022HpsDivision\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsItem\u0022\u003ENew Zealand National 55.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp class=\u0022HpsDivision\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsItem\u0022\u003ENoes 63\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp class=\u0022HpsDivision\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsItem\u0022\u003ENew Zealand Labour 46; New Zealand First 9; Green Party 8.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp class=\u0022HpsDivision\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsItem\u0022\u003EAmendment not agreed to.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000629\u0022\u003EThe question was put that the following amendment in the name of Melissa Lee to clause 5 be agreed to: \u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000630\u0022\u003Ein the definition of exempt use in new section 65A, insert after paragraph (e) the following paragraph:\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000631\u0022\u003E(f)\tuse by any vehicle that is primarily operated by members and for the purposes of the New Zealand Emergency Services, including Fire and Emergency New Zealand, the New Zealand Police Force, St Johns Ambulance Service and Wellington Free Ambulance Service.\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca id=\u0022b467188662624276b474474bf13c90b1\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 amendment be agreed to.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp class=\u0022HpsDivision\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsItem\u0022\u003EAyes 55\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp class=\u0022HpsDivision\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsItem\u0022\u003ENew Zealand National 55.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp class=\u0022HpsDivision\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsItem\u0022\u003ENoes 63\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp class=\u0022HpsDivision\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsItem\u0022\u003ENew Zealand Labour 46; New Zealand First 9; Green Party 8.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp class=\u0022HpsDivision\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsItem\u0022\u003EAmendment not agreed to.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000632\u0022\u003EThe question was put that the following amendment in the name of Denise Lee to clause 5 be agreed to: \u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000633\u0022\u003Ein the definition of exempt use in new section 65A, insert after paragraph (e) the following paragraph:\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000634\u0022\u003E(f)\tuse by any vehicle that is primarily operated by members of and for the purposes of a registered charity.\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca id=\u00229c1483b7bd7e42cfbe8816d75ad5cdb6\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 amendment be agreed to.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp class=\u0022HpsDivision\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsItem\u0022\u003EAyes 55\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp class=\u0022HpsDivision\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsItem\u0022\u003ENew Zealand National 55.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp class=\u0022HpsDivision\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsItem\u0022\u003ENoes 63\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp class=\u0022HpsDivision\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsItem\u0022\u003ENew Zealand Labour 46; New Zealand First 9; Green Party 8.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp class=\u0022HpsDivision\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsItem\u0022\u003EAmendment not agreed to.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000635\u0022\u003EThe question was put that the following amendment in the name of Tim van de Molen to clause 5 be agreed to: \u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000636\u0022\u003Ein the definition of exempt use in new section 65A, insert after paragraph (e) the following paragraph:\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000637\u0022\u003E(f)\tuse by any vehicle or equipment that is primarily operated for the purposes of and in the course of operations for the New Zealand Defence Force.\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca id=\u00221bee9b8243c34cd09dee297608d90b5d\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 amendment be agreed to.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp class=\u0022HpsDivision\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsItem\u0022\u003EAyes 55\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp class=\u0022HpsDivision\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsItem\u0022\u003ENew Zealand National 55.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp class=\u0022HpsDivision\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsItem\u0022\u003ENoes 63\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp class=\u0022HpsDivision\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsItem\u0022\u003ENew Zealand Labour 46; New Zealand First 9; Green Party 8.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp class=\u0022HpsDivision\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsItem\u0022\u003EAmendment not agreed to.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000638\u0022\u003EThe question was put that the following amendment in the name of Brett Hudson to clause 5 be agreed to: \u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000639\u0022\u003Ein new section 65A, replace the definition of fuel with the following definition:\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000640\u0022\u003Efuel means specified engine fuel as defined in section 181(1) of the Local Government Act 1974, but without regard for paragraph (B) of that definition and diesel and biofuel.\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca id=\u0022341d3ac682954d5d8fc7879a31aa37b7\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 amendment be agreed to.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp class=\u0022HpsDivision\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsItem\u0022\u003EAyes 55\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp class=\u0022HpsDivision\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsItem\u0022\u003ENew Zealand National 55.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp class=\u0022HpsDivision\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsItem\u0022\u003ENoes 63\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp class=\u0022HpsDivision\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsItem\u0022\u003ENew Zealand Labour 46; New Zealand First 9; Green Party 8.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp class=\u0022HpsDivision\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsItem\u0022\u003EAmendment not agreed to.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000641\u0022\u003EThe question was put that the following amendment in the name of the Hon Mark Mitchell to clause 5 be agreed to: \u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000642\u0022\u003Ein new section 65C, replace subsection (3) with the following subsection:\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000643\u0022\u003E(3)\tThe maximum rate of any regional fuel tax must not exceed the projected revenue of the interim transport levy that was in place in Auckland during the 2017/2018 Council financial year.\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca id=\u0022a5a543ab6f5b4dc48ac6b3c275cd5046\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 amendment be agreed to.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp class=\u0022HpsDivision\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsItem\u0022\u003EAyes 55\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp class=\u0022HpsDivision\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsItem\u0022\u003ENew Zealand National 55.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp class=\u0022HpsDivision\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsItem\u0022\u003ENoes 63\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp class=\u0022HpsDivision\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsItem\u0022\u003ENew Zealand Labour 46; New Zealand First 9; Green Party 8.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp class=\u0022HpsDivision\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsItem\u0022\u003EAmendment not agreed to.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000644\u0022\u003EThe question was put that the following amendment in the name of Todd Muller to clause 5 be agreed to: \u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000645\u0022\u003Ein new section 65C, insert after subsection (3) the following subsection:\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000646\u0022\u003E(3A)(a)\tThe maximum rate of a regional fuel tax under an RFT scheme is $0.05 per litre if the region that the RFT scheme applies has an average household income below the average of the New Zealand household incomes;\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000647\u0022\u003E(b)\tThe maximum rate of a regional fuel tax in a part of a region under an RFT scheme is $0.05 per litre if that part of a region under a RFT scheme has an average household income below the average of the New Zealand household income.\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca id=\u0022896362e65c134a308fd5d663a1c076fa\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 amendment be agreed to.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp class=\u0022HpsDivision\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsItem\u0022\u003EAyes 55\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp class=\u0022HpsDivision\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsItem\u0022\u003ENew Zealand National 55.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp class=\u0022HpsDivision\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsItem\u0022\u003ENoes 63\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp class=\u0022HpsDivision\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsItem\u0022\u003ENew Zealand Labour 46; New Zealand First 9; Green Party 8.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp class=\u0022HpsDivision\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsItem\u0022\u003EAmendment not agreed to.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000648\u0022\u003EThe question was put that the following amendment in the name of Simeon Brown to clause 5 be agreed to: \u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000649\u0022\u003Ereplace new section 65D with the following section:\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000650\u0022\u003E65D\tPreparation of proposal to establish or replace RFT Scheme\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000651\u0022\u003EA regional council may only prepare a proposal to establish or replace an RFT scheme for the region, or part of the region, if the council, having regard to the views of the regional transport committee, considers that there are 1 or more capital projects currently underway and\u2014\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000652\u0022\u003E(a)\twould benefit the region or part of it to which the proposal relates in relation to congestion, road maintenance or transport network efficiency.\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000653\u0022\u003E(aa)\tare include in the relevant regional land transport plan (including a draft plan); and\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000654\u0022\u003E(b)\tcannot reasonably be fully funded from other sources including targeted rates, general rates, or other measures to control costs from the Council.\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca id=\u002277563064110c448792bb022923ad48ba\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 amendment be agreed to.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp class=\u0022HpsDivision\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsItem\u0022\u003EAyes 55\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp class=\u0022HpsDivision\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsItem\u0022\u003ENew Zealand National 55.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp class=\u0022HpsDivision\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsItem\u0022\u003ENoes 63\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp class=\u0022HpsDivision\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsItem\u0022\u003ENew Zealand Labour 46; New Zealand First 9; Green Party 8.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp class=\u0022HpsDivision\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsItem\u0022\u003EAmendment not agreed to.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000655\u0022\u003EThe question was put that the following amendment in the name of Andrew Falloon to clause 5 be agreed to:\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000656\u0022\u003Ein new section 65D, insert after paragraph (b) the following paragraph:\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000657\u0022\u003E(c)\tMust only fund projects that are certified by the New Zealand Transport Authority to have a positive benefit to cost ratio.\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca id=\u00223a11994f6faa4c4893dec2287cad7a1c\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 amendment be agreed to.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp class=\u0022HpsDivision\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsItem\u0022\u003EAyes 55\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp class=\u0022HpsDivision\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsItem\u0022\u003ENew Zealand National 55.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp class=\u0022HpsDivision\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsItem\u0022\u003ENoes 63\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp class=\u0022HpsDivision\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsItem\u0022\u003ENew Zealand Labour 46; New Zealand First 9; Green Party 8.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp class=\u0022HpsDivision\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsItem\u0022\u003EAmendment not agreed to.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000658\u0022\u003EThe question was put that the following amendment in the name of Chris Penk to clause 5 be agreed to:\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000659\u0022\u003Ein new section 65D, insert after paragraph (b) the following paragraph:\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000660\u0022\u003E(c)\tMust only be funding projects with pre-existing business cases.\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca id=\u002217acbceda6574d7692b9712ebb30457f\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 amendment be agreed to.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp class=\u0022HpsDivision\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsItem\u0022\u003EAyes 55\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp class=\u0022HpsDivision\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsItem\u0022\u003ENew Zealand National 55.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp class=\u0022HpsDivision\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsItem\u0022\u003ENoes 63\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp class=\u0022HpsDivision\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsItem\u0022\u003ENew Zealand Labour 46; New Zealand First 9; Green Party 8.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp class=\u0022HpsDivision\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsItem\u0022\u003EAmendment not agreed to.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000661\u0022\u003EThe question was put that the following amendment in the name of Alastair Scott to clause 5 be agreed to:\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000662\u0022\u003Ein new section 65D, insert after paragraph (b) the following paragraph:\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000663\u0022\u003E(c)\tCannot reasonably be funded from Crown contributions.\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca id=\u00225aef8da7671c46cdafb35d9e1b5c95cb\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 amendment be agreed to.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp class=\u0022HpsDivision\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsItem\u0022\u003EAyes 55\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp class=\u0022HpsDivision\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsItem\u0022\u003ENew Zealand National 55.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp class=\u0022HpsDivision\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsItem\u0022\u003ENoes 63\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp class=\u0022HpsDivision\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsItem\u0022\u003ENew Zealand Labour 46; New Zealand First 9; Green Party 8.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp class=\u0022HpsDivision\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsItem\u0022\u003EAmendment not agreed to.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000664\u0022\u003EThe question was put that the following amendment in the name of Sarah Dowie to clause 5 be agreed to:\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000665\u0022\u003Ein new section 65E(b), insert after subparagraph (iv) the following subparagraph:\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000666\u0022\u003E(v)\tprovide modelling on the likely cost to average motorists.\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca id=\u002291e1298a10e546dab5b6b747664bb8f1\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 amendment be agreed to.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp class=\u0022HpsDivision\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsItem\u0022\u003EAyes 55\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp class=\u0022HpsDivision\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsItem\u0022\u003ENew Zealand National 55.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp class=\u0022HpsDivision\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsItem\u0022\u003ENoes 63\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp class=\u0022HpsDivision\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsItem\u0022\u003ENew Zealand Labour 46; New Zealand First 9; Green Party 8.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp class=\u0022HpsDivision\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsItem\u0022\u003EAmendment not agreed to.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000667\u0022\u003EThe question was put that the following amendment in the name of the Hon Amy Adams to clause 5 be agreed to:\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000668\u0022\u003Ein new section 65E(b), insert after subparagraph (iv) the following subparagraph:\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000669\u0022\u003E(v)\tprovide projections on the likely benefits to congestion.\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca id=\u00226b8a7994fabe4b5a95158392080ced20\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 amendment be agreed to.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp class=\u0022HpsDivision\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsItem\u0022\u003EAyes 55\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp class=\u0022HpsDivision\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsItem\u0022\u003ENew Zealand National 55.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp class=\u0022HpsDivision\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsItem\u0022\u003ENoes 63\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp class=\u0022HpsDivision\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsItem\u0022\u003ENew Zealand Labour 46; New Zealand First 9; Green Party 8.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp class=\u0022HpsDivision\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsItem\u0022\u003EAmendment not agreed to.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000670\u0022\u003EThe question was put that the following amendment in the name of Brett Hudson to clause 5 be agreed to:\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000671\u0022\u003Ein new section 65E(b), insert after subparagraph (iv) the following subparagraph:\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000672\u0022\u003E(v)\tprovide an analysis of what price spreading behaviour could occur.\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca id=\u0022faa7ebe60c104e41a11fec77a3a5174d\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 amendment be agreed to.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp class=\u0022HpsDivision\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsItem\u0022\u003EAyes 55\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp class=\u0022HpsDivision\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsItem\u0022\u003ENew Zealand National 55.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp class=\u0022HpsDivision\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsItem\u0022\u003ENoes 63\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp class=\u0022HpsDivision\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsItem\u0022\u003ENew Zealand Labour 46; New Zealand First 9; Green Party 8.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp class=\u0022HpsDivision\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsItem\u0022\u003EAmendment not agreed to.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000673\u0022\u003EThe question was put that the following amendment in the name of Jonathan Young to clause 5 be agreed to:\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000674\u0022\u003Ein new section 65E(c), insert after subparagraph (vii) the following subparagraph:\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000675\u0022\u003E(ix)\tprovide modelling on the likely cost to average motorists.\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca id=\u00221c94cf893c584fe69057c021b5c30ccf\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 amendment be agreed to.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp class=\u0022HpsDivision\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsItem\u0022\u003EAyes 55\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp class=\u0022HpsDivision\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsItem\u0022\u003ENew Zealand National 55.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp class=\u0022HpsDivision\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsItem\u0022\u003ENoes 63\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp class=\u0022HpsDivision\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsItem\u0022\u003ENew Zealand Labour 46; New Zealand First 9; Green Party 8.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp class=\u0022HpsDivision\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsItem\u0022\u003EAmendment not agreed to.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000676\u0022\u003EThe question was put that the following amendment in the name of Denise Lee to clause 5 be agreed to:\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000677\u0022\u003Ein new section 65E(c), insert after subparagraph (vii) the following subparagraph:\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000678\u0022\u003E(ix)\tprovide an analysis of what price spreading behaviour could occur.\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca id=\u0022a872c5ae5fb348ea968dbc2833e5e360\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 amendment be agreed to.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp class=\u0022HpsDivision\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsItem\u0022\u003EAyes 55\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp class=\u0022HpsDivision\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsItem\u0022\u003ENew Zealand National 55.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp class=\u0022HpsDivision\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsItem\u0022\u003ENoes 63\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp class=\u0022HpsDivision\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsItem\u0022\u003ENew Zealand Labour 46; New Zealand First 9; Green Party 8.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp class=\u0022HpsDivision\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsItem\u0022\u003EAmendment not agreed to.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000679\u0022\u003EThe question was put that the following amendment in the name of the Hon Mark Mitchell to clause 5 be agreed to:\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000680\u0022\u003Ein new section 65E(c), insert after subparagraph (vii) the following subparagraph:\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000681\u0022\u003E(ix)\tprovide projections on the likely benefits to congestion.\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca id=\u0022450ab0f4f1434ad7a5cff67bbd35a409\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 amendment be agreed to.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp class=\u0022HpsDivision\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsItem\u0022\u003EAyes 55\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp class=\u0022HpsDivision\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsItem\u0022\u003ENew Zealand National 55.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp class=\u0022HpsDivision\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsItem\u0022\u003ENoes 63\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp class=\u0022HpsDivision\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsItem\u0022\u003ENew Zealand Labour 46; New Zealand First 9; Green Party 8.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp class=\u0022HpsDivision\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsItem\u0022\u003EAmendment not agreed to.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000682\u0022\u003EThe question was put that the following amendment in the name of Andrew Falloon to clause 5 be agreed to:\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000683\u0022\u003Einsert, after new section 65E, the following section:\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000684\u0022\u003E65EA\tProjects required for funding\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000685\u0022\u003EAny regional fuel tax that seeks to establish a regional fuel tax scheme in the Canterbury region must propose to fund the Christchurch to Ashburton roading project as part of their proposal.\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000686\u0022\u003EThe responsible Ministers must not recommend proposal to establish a regional fuel tax scheme under section 65J(a) if it is not compliant with section 65EA(a).\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca id=\u0022103d4fe6cbf94e319e1b52d30e8d4621\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 amendment be agreed to.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp class=\u0022HpsDivision\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsItem\u0022\u003EAyes 55\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp class=\u0022HpsDivision\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsItem\u0022\u003ENew Zealand National 55.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp class=\u0022HpsDivision\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsItem\u0022\u003ENoes 63\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp class=\u0022HpsDivision\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsItem\u0022\u003ENew Zealand Labour 46; New Zealand First 9; Green Party 8.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp class=\u0022HpsDivision\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsItem\u0022\u003EAmendment not agreed to.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000687\u0022\u003EThe question was put that the following amendment in the name of Denise Lee to clause 5 be agreed to: \u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000688\u0022\u003Einsert, after new section 65E, the following section:\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000689\u0022\u003E65EA\tProjects required for funding\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000690\u0022\u003EAny regional fuel tax proposal that seeks to establish a regional fuel tax scheme in the Auckland region must propose to fund the East West Link roading project as part of their proposal.\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000691\u0022\u003EThe responsible Ministers must not recommend proposal to establish a regional fuel tax scheme under section 65J(a) if it is not compliant with section 65EA(a).\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca id=\u0022d81a3bf3173e4d5b8882e34d251bfeba\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 amendment be agreed to.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp class=\u0022HpsDivision\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsItem\u0022\u003EAyes 55\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp class=\u0022HpsDivision\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsItem\u0022\u003ENew Zealand National 55.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp class=\u0022HpsDivision\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsItem\u0022\u003ENoes 63\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp class=\u0022HpsDivision\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsItem\u0022\u003ENew Zealand Labour 46; New Zealand First 9; Green Party 8.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp class=\u0022HpsDivision\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsItem\u0022\u003EAmendment not agreed to.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000692\u0022\u003EThe question was put that the following amendment in the name of Lawrence Yule to clause 5 be agreed to: \u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000693\u0022\u003Einsert, after new section 65E, the following section:\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000694\u0022\u003E65EA\tProjects required for funding\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000695\u0022\u003EAny regional fuel tax proposal that seeks to establish a regional fuel tax scheme in the Hawkes Bay region must propose to fund the Napier to Hastings roading project as part of their proposal.\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000696\u0022\u003EThe responsible Ministers must not recommend proposal to establish a regional fuel tax scheme under section 65J(a) if it is not compliant with section 65EA(a).\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca id=\u0022fa9631df576c44ddbd2dbee323997a5c\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 amendment be agreed to.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp class=\u0022HpsDivision\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsItem\u0022\u003EAyes 55\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp class=\u0022HpsDivision\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsItem\u0022\u003ENew Zealand National 55.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp class=\u0022HpsDivision\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsItem\u0022\u003ENoes 63\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp class=\u0022HpsDivision\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsItem\u0022\u003ENew Zealand Labour 46; New Zealand First 9; Green Party 8.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp class=\u0022HpsDivision\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsItem\u0022\u003EAmendment not agreed to.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000697\u0022\u003EThe question was put that the following amendment in the name of Matt King to clause 5 be agreed to: \u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000698\u0022\u003Einsert, after new section 65E, the following section:\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000699\u0022\u003E65EA\tProjects required for funding\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000700\u0022\u003EAny regional fuel tax proposal that seeks to establish a regional fuel tax scheme in the Northland region must propose to fund the Wellsford to Whangarei roading project as part of their proposal.\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000701\u0022\u003EThe responsible Ministers must not recommend proposal to establish a regional fuel tax scheme under section 65J(a) if it is not compliant with section 65EA(a).\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca id=\u00225cdbd9b548c84e638575e0293bdab852\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 amendment be agreed to.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp class=\u0022HpsDivision\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsItem\u0022\u003EAyes 55\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp class=\u0022HpsDivision\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsItem\u0022\u003ENew Zealand National 55.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp class=\u0022HpsDivision\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsItem\u0022\u003ENoes 63\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp class=\u0022HpsDivision\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsItem\u0022\u003ENew Zealand Labour 46; New Zealand First 9; Green Party 8.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp class=\u0022HpsDivision\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsItem\u0022\u003EAmendment not agreed to.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000702\u0022\u003EThe question was put that the following amendment in the name of Tim van de Molen to clause 5 be agreed to: \u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000703\u0022\u003Einsert, after new section 65E, the following section:\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000704\u0022\u003E65EA\tProjects required for funding\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000705\u0022\u003EAny regional fuel tax proposal that seeks to establish a regional fuel tax scheme in the Waikato region must propose to fund the Piarere to the foot of the Kaimai range roading project as part of their proposal.\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000706\u0022\u003EThe responsible Ministers must not recommend proposal to establish a regional fuel tax scheme under section 65J(a) if it is not compliant with section 65EA(a).\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca id=\u00228d370a5899fe46629f50ffc70d0476c7\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 amendment be agreed to.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp class=\u0022HpsDivision\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsItem\u0022\u003EAyes 55\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp class=\u0022HpsDivision\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsItem\u0022\u003ENew Zealand National 55.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp class=\u0022HpsDivision\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsItem\u0022\u003ENoes 63\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp class=\u0022HpsDivision\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsItem\u0022\u003ENew Zealand Labour 46; New Zealand First 9; Green Party 8.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp class=\u0022HpsDivision\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsItem\u0022\u003EAmendment not agreed to.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000707\u0022\u003EThe question was put that the following amendment in the name of Todd Muller to clause 5 be agreed to: \u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000708\u0022\u003Einsert, after new section 65E, the following section:\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000709\u0022\u003E65EA\tProjects required for funding\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000710\u0022\u003EAny regional fuel tax proposal that seeks to establish a regional fuel tax scheme in the Bay of Plenty region must propose to fund the Tauranga to Katikati roading project as part of their proposal.\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000711\u0022\u003EThe responsible Ministers must not recommend proposal to establish a regional fuel tax scheme under section 65J(a) if it is not compliant with section 65EA(a).\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca id=\u00220d6b321615ee45bd90c9840d17a210ac\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 amendment be agreed to.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp class=\u0022HpsDivision\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsItem\u0022\u003EAyes 55\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp class=\u0022HpsDivision\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsItem\u0022\u003ENew Zealand National 55.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp class=\u0022HpsDivision\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsItem\u0022\u003ENoes 63\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp class=\u0022HpsDivision\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsItem\u0022\u003ENew Zealand Labour 46; New Zealand First 9; Green Party 8.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp class=\u0022HpsDivision\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsItem\u0022\u003EAmendment not agreed to.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000712\u0022\u003EThe question was put that the following amendment in the name of Matt Doocey to clause 5 be agreed to: \u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000713\u0022\u003Einsert, after new section 65E, the following section:\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000714\u0022\u003E65EA\tProjects required for funding\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000715\u0022\u003EAny regional fuel tax proposal that seeks to establish a regional fuel tax scheme in the Canterbury region must propose to fund the Christchurch Northern Motorway Extension roading project as part of their proposal.\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000716\u0022\u003EThe responsible Ministers must not recommend proposal to establish a regional fuel tax scheme under section 65J(a) if it is not compliant with section 65EA(a).\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca id=\u0022db5d440b4e9e4e3cb69df5348cc3474a\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 amendment be agreed to.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp class=\u0022HpsDivision\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsItem\u0022\u003EAyes 55\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp class=\u0022HpsDivision\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsItem\u0022\u003ENew Zealand National 55.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp class=\u0022HpsDivision\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsItem\u0022\u003ENoes 63\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp class=\u0022HpsDivision\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsItem\u0022\u003ENew Zealand Labour 46; New Zealand First 9; Green Party 8.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp class=\u0022HpsDivision\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsItem\u0022\u003EAmendment not agreed to.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000717\u0022\u003EThe question was put that the following amendment in the name of Simon O\u2019Connor to clause 5 be agreed to: \u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000718\u0022\u003Einsert, after new section 65E, the following section:\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000719\u0022\u003E65EA\tProjects required for funding\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000720\u0022\u003EAny regional fuel tax proposal that seeks to establish a regional fuel tax scheme in the Auckland region must propose to fund the comprehensive upgrade of Tamaki Drive.\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000721\u0022\u003EThe responsible Ministers must not recommend proposal to establish a regional fuel tax scheme under section 65J(a) if it is not compliant with section 65EA(a).\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca id=\u00226b2c171a23804408addc7765f150e37f\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 amendment be agreed to.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp class=\u0022HpsDivision\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsItem\u0022\u003EAyes 55\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp class=\u0022HpsDivision\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsItem\u0022\u003ENew Zealand National 55.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp class=\u0022HpsDivision\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsItem\u0022\u003ENoes 63\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp class=\u0022HpsDivision\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsItem\u0022\u003ENew Zealand Labour 46; New Zealand First 9; Green Party 8.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp class=\u0022HpsDivision\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsItem\u0022\u003EAmendment not agreed to.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000722\u0022\u003EThe question was put that the following amendment in the name of the Hon David Bennett to clause 5 be agreed to: \u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000723\u0022\u003Einsert, after new section 65E, the following section:\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000724\u0022\u003E65EA\tProjects required for funding\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000725\u0022\u003EAny regional fuel tax proposal that seeks to establish a regional fuel tax scheme in the Waikato region must propose to fund the Cambridge to Piarere roading project as part of their proposal.\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000726\u0022\u003EThe responsible Ministers must not recommend proposal to establish a regional fuel tax scheme under section 65J(a) if it is not compliant with section 65EA(a).\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca id=\u00223c6d7610f2194af6bd907ced29e525e3\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 amendment be agreed to.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp class=\u0022HpsDivision\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsItem\u0022\u003EAyes 55\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp class=\u0022HpsDivision\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsItem\u0022\u003ENew Zealand National 55.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp class=\u0022HpsDivision\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsItem\u0022\u003ENoes 63\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp class=\u0022HpsDivision\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsItem\u0022\u003ENew Zealand Labour 46; New Zealand First 9; Green Party 8.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp class=\u0022HpsDivision\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsItem\u0022\u003EAmendment not agreed to.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000727\u0022\u003EThe question was put that the following amendment in the name of the Hon Tim Macindoe to clause 5 be agreed to: \u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000728\u0022\u003Einsert in new section 65F, after subsection (3), the following subsection:\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000729\u0022\u003E(4)\tThe Minister of Finance and the responsible Minister, when considering the proposal, must consider any information relating to the public support for the specific RFT proposal.\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca id=\u00227828a6f4972e4033a79c70a0b580ddb9\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 amendment be agreed to.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp class=\u0022HpsDivision\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsItem\u0022\u003EAyes 55\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp class=\u0022HpsDivision\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsItem\u0022\u003ENew Zealand National 55.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp class=\u0022HpsDivision\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsItem\u0022\u003ENoes 63\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp class=\u0022HpsDivision\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsItem\u0022\u003ENew Zealand Labour 46; New Zealand First 9; Green Party 8.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp class=\u0022HpsDivision\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsItem\u0022\u003EAmendment not agreed to.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000730\u0022\u003EThe question was put that the following amendment in the name of the Hon Tim Macindoe to clause 5 be agreed to: \u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000731\u0022\u003Einsert in new section 65F, after subsection (3), the following subsection:\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000732\u0022\u003E(4)\tThe consultation for a RFT must gain majority support for the Regional Fuel Tax in the consultation process provided by the regional council.\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca id=\u0022ad64cf392d9b40bfbb433665054441a3\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 amendment be agreed to.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp class=\u0022HpsDivision\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsItem\u0022\u003EAyes 55\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp class=\u0022HpsDivision\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsItem\u0022\u003ENew Zealand National 55.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp class=\u0022HpsDivision\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsItem\u0022\u003ENoes 63\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp class=\u0022HpsDivision\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsItem\u0022\u003ENew Zealand Labour 46; New Zealand First 9; Green Party 8.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp class=\u0022HpsDivision\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsItem\u0022\u003EAmendment not agreed to.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000733\u0022\u003EThe question was put that the following amendment in the name of Nuk Korako to clause 5 be agreed to:\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000734\u0022\u003Einsert in new section 65F, after subsection (3), the following subsection:\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000735\u0022\u003E(4)\tThe consultation for any material change to the RFT scheme must be carried out in accordance with the special consultative provisions in section 83 of the Local Government Act 2002.\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca id=\u002274853aa944bb455b9f1a31b1ae093746\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 amendment be agreed to.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp class=\u0022HpsDivision\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsItem\u0022\u003EAyes 55\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp class=\u0022HpsDivision\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsItem\u0022\u003ENew Zealand National 55.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp class=\u0022HpsDivision\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsItem\u0022\u003ENoes 63\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp class=\u0022HpsDivision\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsItem\u0022\u003ENew Zealand Labour 46; New Zealand First 9; Green Party 8.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp class=\u0022HpsDivision\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsItem\u0022\u003EAmendment not agreed to.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000736\u0022\u003EThe question was put that the following amendment in the name of Alastair Scott to clause 5 be agreed to:\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000737\u0022\u003Ereplace new section 65G with the following section:\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000738\u0022\u003E65G\tProposal to vary RFT scheme\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000739\u0022\u003E\tAny material variation to a RFT proposal will result in the applicable RFT scheme being rescinded.\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca id=\u0022df54059f7e2e43abb34a425304c02211\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 amendment be agreed to.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp class=\u0022HpsDivision\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsItem\u0022\u003EAyes 55\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp class=\u0022HpsDivision\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsItem\u0022\u003ENew Zealand National 55.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp class=\u0022HpsDivision\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsItem\u0022\u003ENoes 63\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp class=\u0022HpsDivision\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsItem\u0022\u003ENew Zealand Labour 46; New Zealand First 9; Green Party 8.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp class=\u0022HpsDivision\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsItem\u0022\u003EAmendment not agreed to.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000740\u0022\u003EThe question was put that the following amendment in the name of Chris Bishop to clause 5 be agreed to: \u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000741\u0022\u003Ein new section 65H, insert after paragraph (c) the following paragraph:\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000742\u0022\u003E(d)\tMust provide updated information on the projected costs of a regional fuel tax to an average motorist, the impact on fuel prices and the impact on congestion.\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca id=\u00222ba8ba54c6004be9ac6ef57db63604f0\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 amendment be agreed to.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp class=\u0022HpsDivision\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsItem\u0022\u003EAyes 55\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp class=\u0022HpsDivision\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsItem\u0022\u003ENew Zealand National 55.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp class=\u0022HpsDivision\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsItem\u0022\u003ENoes 63\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp class=\u0022HpsDivision\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsItem\u0022\u003ENew Zealand Labour 46; New Zealand First 9; Green Party 8.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp class=\u0022HpsDivision\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsItem\u0022\u003EAmendment not agreed to.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000743\u0022\u003EThe question was put that the following amendment in the name of the Hon Dr Nick Smith to clause 5 be agreed to:\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000744\u0022\u003Einsert, after new section 65H, the following section:\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000745\u0022\u003E65HA\tExemption from RFT schemes\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000746\u0022\u003E(1)(a)\tNo RFT scheme shall be put in place by the Tasman District Council.\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000747\u0022\u003E(b)\tNo RFT scheme shall be put in place by the Nelson City Council.\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000748\u0022\u003E(2)\tFor the avoidance of doubt, no Minister may recommend that an RFT scheme be established in either the Tasman or Nelson areas.\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca id=\u0022e50509eab2754c75b7628040e196f20c\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 amendment be agreed to.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp class=\u0022HpsDivision\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsItem\u0022\u003EAyes 55\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp class=\u0022HpsDivision\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsItem\u0022\u003ENew Zealand National 55.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp class=\u0022HpsDivision\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsItem\u0022\u003ENoes 63\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp class=\u0022HpsDivision\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsItem\u0022\u003ENew Zealand Labour 46; New Zealand First 9; Green Party 8.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp class=\u0022HpsDivision\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsItem\u0022\u003EAmendment not agreed to.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000749\u0022\u003EThe question was put that the following amendment in the name of Stuart Smith to clause 5 be agreed to: \u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000750\u0022\u003Einsert, after new section 65H, the following section:\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000751\u0022\u003E65HA\tExclusion of Specified Area from Region Fuel Tax Schemes\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000752\u0022\u003E\tNotwithstanding any other section of this Act no part of the territorial authority of the Hurunui District Council as defined by the Part 2 of Schedule 2 of the Local Government Act 2002 shall be eligible for a regional fuel tax scheme.\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca id=\u00226ec5749027654ceda573790a6b04a5ca\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 amendment be agreed to.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp class=\u0022HpsDivision\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsItem\u0022\u003EAyes 55\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp class=\u0022HpsDivision\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsItem\u0022\u003ENew Zealand National 55.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp class=\u0022HpsDivision\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsItem\u0022\u003ENoes 63\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp class=\u0022HpsDivision\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsItem\u0022\u003ENew Zealand Labour 46; New Zealand First 9; Green Party 8.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp class=\u0022HpsDivision\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsItem\u0022\u003EAmendment not agreed to.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000753\u0022\u003EThe question was put that the following amendment in the name of Stuart Smith to clause 5 be agreed to: \u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000754\u0022\u003Einsert, after new section 65H, the following section:\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000755\u0022\u003E65HA\tExclusion of Specified Area from Region Fuel Tax Schemes\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000756\u0022\u003E\tNotwithstanding any other section of this Act no part of the territorial authority of the Marlborough District Council as defined by the Part 2 of Schedule 2 of the Local Government Act 2002 shall be eligible for a regional fuel tax scheme.\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca id=\u0022911814ed4cc047478e724c659ff78d3f\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 amendment be agreed to.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp class=\u0022HpsDivision\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsItem\u0022\u003EAyes 55\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp class=\u0022HpsDivision\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsItem\u0022\u003ENew Zealand National 55.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp class=\u0022HpsDivision\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsItem\u0022\u003ENoes 63\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp class=\u0022HpsDivision\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsItem\u0022\u003ENew Zealand Labour 46; New Zealand First 9; Green Party 8.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp class=\u0022HpsDivision\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsItem\u0022\u003EAmendment not agreed to.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000757\u0022\u003EThe question was put that the following amendment in the name of Stuart Smith to clause 5 be agreed to: \u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000758\u0022\u003Einsert, after new section 65H, the following section:\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000759\u0022\u003E65HA\tExclusion of Specified Area from Region Fuel Tax Schemes\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000760\u0022\u003E\tNotwithstanding any other section of this Act no part of the territorial authority of the Kaikoura District Council as defined by the Part 2 of Schedule 2 of the Local Government Act 2002 shall be eligible for a regional fuel tax scheme.\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca id=\u0022f18f67b9ceec413f92855d50e7d3a2e9\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 amendment be agreed to.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp class=\u0022HpsDivision\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsItem\u0022\u003EAyes 55\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp class=\u0022HpsDivision\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsItem\u0022\u003ENew Zealand National 55.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp class=\u0022HpsDivision\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsItem\u0022\u003ENoes 63\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp class=\u0022HpsDivision\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsItem\u0022\u003ENew Zealand Labour 46; New Zealand First 9; Green Party 8.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp class=\u0022HpsDivision\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsItem\u0022\u003EAmendment not agreed to.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000761\u0022\u003EThe question was put that the following amendment in the name of Brett Hudson to clause 5 be agreed to: \u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000762\u0022\u003Einsert, after new section 65H, the following section:\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000763\u0022\u003E65HA\tExclusion of Specified Area from Region Fuel Tax Schemes\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000764\u0022\u003E\tNotwithstanding any other section of this Act no part of the territorial authority of the Wellington Region as defined by the Part 2 of Schedule 2 of the Local Government Act 2002 shall be eligible for a regional fuel tax scheme.\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca id=\u00220232055764ae4e99ad43609d408f68e3\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 amendment be agreed to.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp class=\u0022HpsDivision\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsItem\u0022\u003EAyes 55\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp class=\u0022HpsDivision\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsItem\u0022\u003ENew Zealand National 55.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp class=\u0022HpsDivision\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsItem\u0022\u003ENoes 63\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp class=\u0022HpsDivision\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsItem\u0022\u003ENew Zealand Labour 46; New Zealand First 9; Green Party 8.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp class=\u0022HpsDivision\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsItem\u0022\u003EAmendment not agreed to.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000765\u0022\u003EThe question was put that the following amendment in the name of Andrew Falloon to clause 5 be agreed to: \u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000766\u0022\u003Einsert in new section 65L, after subsection (2), the following subsection:\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000767\u0022\u003E(3)\tThe Minister of Finance and the responsible Minister must review a RFT Scheme annually to ensure that the regional council is carrying out the RFT scheme for their region.\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca id=\u0022594df60ff4424aa8b6bef6d39aed3232\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 amendment be agreed to.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp class=\u0022HpsDivision\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsItem\u0022\u003EAyes 55\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp class=\u0022HpsDivision\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsItem\u0022\u003ENew Zealand National 55.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp class=\u0022HpsDivision\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsItem\u0022\u003ENoes 63\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp class=\u0022HpsDivision\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsItem\u0022\u003ENew Zealand Labour 46; New Zealand First 9; Green Party 8.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp class=\u0022HpsDivision\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsItem\u0022\u003EAmendment not agreed to.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000768\u0022\u003EThe question was put that the following amendment in the name of Chris Penk to clause 5 be agreed to: \u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000769\u0022\u003Einsert in new section 65L, after subsection (2), the following subsection:\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000770\u0022\u003E(3)\tThe Minister of Finance and the responsible Minister must recommend such an order if they are satisfied that fuel prices in the region will increase above $3 a litre.\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca id=\u0022886d50fb708a4440b988df533731f24a\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 amendment be agreed to.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp class=\u0022HpsDivision\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsItem\u0022\u003EAyes 55\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp class=\u0022HpsDivision\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsItem\u0022\u003ENew Zealand National 55.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp class=\u0022HpsDivision\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsItem\u0022\u003ENoes 63\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp class=\u0022HpsDivision\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsItem\u0022\u003ENew Zealand Labour 46; New Zealand First 9; Green Party 8.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp class=\u0022HpsDivision\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsItem\u0022\u003EAmendment not agreed to.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000771\u0022\u003EThe question was put that the following amendment in the name of the Hon Alfred Ngaro to clause 5 be agreed to: \u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000772\u0022\u003Einsert in new section 65L, after subsection (2), the following subsection:\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000773\u0022\u003E(3)\tThe Minister of Finance and the responsible Minister must recommend such an order if average fuel prices in the country reach $3 a litre.\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca id=\u002215cb2ca1fb424eddaf1e8971c20fa6bc\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 amendment be agreed to.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp class=\u0022HpsDivision\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsItem\u0022\u003EAyes 55\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp class=\u0022HpsDivision\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsItem\u0022\u003ENew Zealand National 55.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp class=\u0022HpsDivision\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsItem\u0022\u003ENoes 63\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp class=\u0022HpsDivision\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsItem\u0022\u003ENew Zealand Labour 46; New Zealand First 9; Green Party 8.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp class=\u0022HpsDivision\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsItem\u0022\u003EAmendment not agreed to.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000774\u0022\u003EThe question was put that the following amendment in the name of the Hon Paula Bennett to clause 5 be agreed to: \u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000775\u0022\u003Einsert in new section 65L, after subsection (2), the following subsection:\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000776\u0022\u003E(3)\tThe Minister of Finance and the responsible Minister must recommend such an order if it becomes clear at any point while a RFT is in place that the programme could be funded by alternative reasonable means.\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca id=\u00221c5c9e863c774541a94ec747d08d8fb9\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 amendment be agreed to.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp class=\u0022HpsDivision\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsItem\u0022\u003EAyes 55\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp class=\u0022HpsDivision\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsItem\u0022\u003ENew Zealand National 55.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp class=\u0022HpsDivision\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsItem\u0022\u003ENoes 63\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp class=\u0022HpsDivision\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsItem\u0022\u003ENew Zealand Labour 46; New Zealand First 9; Green Party 8.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp class=\u0022HpsDivision\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsItem\u0022\u003EAmendment not agreed to.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000777\u0022\u003EThe question was put that the following amendment in the name of Denise Lee to clause 5 be agreed to:\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000778\u0022\u003Einsert in new section 65M, after subsection (2), the following subsection:\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000779\u0022\u003E(3)\tThe Council must review the scheme at the same time as each annual Council Budget.\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca id=\u0022dae1403f1faa4afe961ae2477be5861e\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 amendment be agreed to.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp class=\u0022HpsDivision\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsItem\u0022\u003EAyes 55\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp class=\u0022HpsDivision\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsItem\u0022\u003ENew Zealand National 55.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp class=\u0022HpsDivision\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsItem\u0022\u003ENoes 63\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp class=\u0022HpsDivision\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsItem\u0022\u003ENew Zealand Labour 46; New Zealand First 9; Green Party 8.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp class=\u0022HpsDivision\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsItem\u0022\u003EAmendment not agreed to.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000780\u0022\u003EThe question was put that the following amendment in the name of Jami-Lee Ross to clause 5 be agreed to: \u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000781\u0022\u003Einsert in new section 65M, after subsection (2), the following subsection:\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000782\u0022\u003E(3)\tThe Council must review the scheme alongside each new Regional Land Transport Plan proposal.\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca id=\u00228ae127f3748d46b28ad621e13a081c0c\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 amendment be agreed to.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp class=\u0022HpsDivision\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsItem\u0022\u003EAyes 55\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp class=\u0022HpsDivision\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsItem\u0022\u003ENew Zealand National 55.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp class=\u0022HpsDivision\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsItem\u0022\u003ENoes 63\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp class=\u0022HpsDivision\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsItem\u0022\u003ENew Zealand Labour 46; New Zealand First 9; Green Party 8.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp class=\u0022HpsDivision\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsItem\u0022\u003EAmendment not agreed to.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000783\u0022\u003EThe question was put that the following amendment in the name of Brett Hudson to clause 5 be agreed to: \u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000784\u0022\u003Einsert in new section 65M, after subsection (2), the following subsection:\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000785\u0022\u003E(3)\tThe Council must review the scheme if they receive an application from 5% of residents of the region where a RFT scheme is in place.\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca id=\u00229a7875d95f234f5bb89b0eee6864dc1f\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 amendment be agreed to.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp class=\u0022HpsDivision\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsItem\u0022\u003EAyes 55\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp class=\u0022HpsDivision\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsItem\u0022\u003ENew Zealand National 55.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp class=\u0022HpsDivision\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsItem\u0022\u003ENoes 63\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp class=\u0022HpsDivision\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsItem\u0022\u003ENew Zealand Labour 46; New Zealand First 9; Green Party 8.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp class=\u0022HpsDivision\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsItem\u0022\u003EAmendment not agreed to.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000786\u0022\u003EThe question was put that the following amendment in the name of Lawrence Yule to clause 5 be agreed to: \u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000787\u0022\u003Einsert in new section 65M, after subsection (2), the following subsection:\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000788\u0022\u003E(3)\tThe Council must review the scheme annually to assess the impact the scheme has on motorists and make public that information.\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca id=\u00222cfa984a3f024b648d62642237a69b67\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 amendment be agreed to.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp class=\u0022HpsDivision\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsItem\u0022\u003EAyes 55\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp class=\u0022HpsDivision\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsItem\u0022\u003ENew Zealand National 55.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp class=\u0022HpsDivision\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsItem\u0022\u003ENoes 63\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp class=\u0022HpsDivision\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsItem\u0022\u003ENew Zealand Labour 46; New Zealand First 9; Green Party 8.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp class=\u0022HpsDivision\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsItem\u0022\u003EAmendment not agreed to.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000789\u0022\u003EThe question was put that the following amendment in the name of Simeon Brown to clause 5 be agreed to: \u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000790\u0022\u003Einsert in new section 65N, after paragraph (e), the following paragraph:\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000791\u0022\u003E(f)\tProviding an annual report on the impact any active RFT Scheme has had on fuel prices, price spreading, and congestion in that region.\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca id=\u0022df25815ee99841d7aa6cc726106cab8d\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 amendment be agreed to.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp class=\u0022HpsDivision\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsItem\u0022\u003EAyes 55\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp class=\u0022HpsDivision\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsItem\u0022\u003ENew Zealand National 55.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp class=\u0022HpsDivision\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsItem\u0022\u003ENoes 63\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp class=\u0022HpsDivision\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsItem\u0022\u003ENew Zealand Labour 46; New Zealand First 9; Green Party 8.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp class=\u0022HpsDivision\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsItem\u0022\u003EAmendment not agreed to.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000792\u0022\u003EThe question was put that the following amendment in the name of Erica Stanford to clause 5 be agreed to: \u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000793\u0022\u003Einsert in new section 65W, after subsection (3), the following subsection:\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000794\u0022\u003E(4)\tAny person is entitled to a rebate for an amount determined reasonable by the Minister under the regulations in section 65ZE if that person is eligible for a Gold Card under the Social Security (SuperGold Card) Regulations 2007.\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca id=\u002250881d832c244d71b3861e2e26ee5312\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 amendment be agreed to.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp class=\u0022HpsDivision\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsItem\u0022\u003EAyes 55\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp class=\u0022HpsDivision\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsItem\u0022\u003ENew Zealand National 55.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp class=\u0022HpsDivision\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsItem\u0022\u003ENoes 63\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp class=\u0022HpsDivision\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsItem\u0022\u003ENew Zealand Labour 46; New Zealand First 9; Green Party 8.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp class=\u0022HpsDivision\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsItem\u0022\u003EAmendment not agreed to.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000795\u0022\u003EThe question was put that the following amendment in the name of Chris Penk to clause 5 be agreed to: \u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000796\u0022\u003Einsert in new section 65ZD(3) \u201Cannually\u201D after \u201CHouse of Representatives\u201D.\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca id=\u0022ea2b1f3258da4702bbec5a1d012786d3\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 amendment be agreed to.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp class=\u0022HpsDivision\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsItem\u0022\u003EAyes 55\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp class=\u0022HpsDivision\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsItem\u0022\u003ENew Zealand National 55.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp class=\u0022HpsDivision\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsItem\u0022\u003ENoes 63\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp class=\u0022HpsDivision\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsItem\u0022\u003ENew Zealand Labour 46; New Zealand First 9; Green Party 8.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp class=\u0022HpsDivision\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsItem\u0022\u003EAmendment not agreed to.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000797\u0022\u003EThe question was put that the amendment set out on Supplementary Order Paper 27 in the name of the Hon Nikki Kaye to clause 5 be agreed to.\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca id=\u002267d3451e28894e0d8e1cd291238199d3\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 amendment be agreed to.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp class=\u0022HpsDivision\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsItem\u0022\u003EAyes 55\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp class=\u0022HpsDivision\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsItem\u0022\u003ENew Zealand National 55.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp class=\u0022HpsDivision\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsItem\u0022\u003ENoes 63\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp class=\u0022HpsDivision\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsItem\u0022\u003ENew Zealand Labour 46; New Zealand First 9; Green Party 8.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp class=\u0022HpsDivision\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsItem\u0022\u003EAmendment not agreed to.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca id=\u00223f253329bb254d33b7737e6e96a987c9\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 Part 1 as amended be agreed to.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp class=\u0022HpsDivision\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsItem\u0022\u003EAyes 63\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp class=\u0022HpsDivision\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsItem\u0022\u003ENew Zealand Labour 46; New Zealand First 9; Green Party 8.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp class=\u0022HpsDivision\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsItem\u0022\u003ENoes 56\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp class=\u0022HpsDivision\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsItem\u0022\u003ENew Zealand National 55; ACT New Zealand 1.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp class=\u0022HpsDivision\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsItem\u0022\u003EPart 1 as amended agreed to.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000798\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsSubproceedingHeading\u0022 id=\u0022f7e1b91757674577ad79d0c36a806a1f\u0022\u003EPart 2  Amendments to other Acts\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u0022e978865e-57e5-41d6-a7f6-b49daae78630\u0022 data-id=\u00225f9fc59d6ea547e29826c82e2027e62f\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000799\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e978865e-57e5-41d6-a7f6-b49daae78630\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u00225f9fc59d6ea547e29826c82e2027e62f\u0022\u003EHon Dr NICK SMITH (National\u2014Nelson):\u003C/span\u003E The very first clause of Part 2, clause 7, applies GST to this regional petrol tax. If I had a dollar for every time I\u2019d heard a lecture from the Rt Hon Winston Peters on the evils\u2014and that\u2019s the exact word that he uses, the evils\u2014of putting a GST, a tax on a tax, I would be a very wealthy man. In fact I decided to google it because I thought I could remember at least two dozen occasions when I\u2019d heard such a lecture from Winston Peters. Do members know how many times on Google you find Winston Peters damning a tax on tax or a GST on the fuel excise? Would anybody make a bid?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000800\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022153a2bd770fe418681b0e651bbdb0078\u0022\u003EHon Member\u003C/span\u003E: A hundred!\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000801\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e978865e-57e5-41d6-a7f6-b49daae78630\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u002261622007cd61426d8aac69b8d6260b93\u0022\u003EHon Dr NICK SMITH\u003C/span\u003E: Well, actually, the first time I remember a speech from Winston Peters on this issue was when the GST was introduced, in 1985. So I accept I\u2019m talking over 30 years, but Winston Peters has been consistent, and Mr Google will find 234\u2014234\u2014references to the Rt Hon Winston Peters opposing GST on excise tax.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000802\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e978865e-57e5-41d6-a7f6-b49daae78630\u0022\u003ESo, then, I come to clause 7 of Part 2. Just to remove any doubt, let me read to the committee what this section says. It says, for the removal of any doubt, the new regional petrol tax will be considered as the supply of a service for the perspective of GST. Now, I have to confess this is not the first time that Winston Peters has done a double back-flip, but I do challenge the New Zealand First members in the Chamber, maybe just this once, maybe just once in the history of New Zealand First, might it do what its leader says and stand by its principles, stand by those tub-thumping speeches that it\u2019s given up and down New Zealand, saying that a tax on a tax is, to quote Mr Peters, \u201Can evil\u201D\u2014an evil.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000803\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e978865e-57e5-41d6-a7f6-b49daae78630\u0022\u003EThen I want to say one other part, in respect of these provisions, and that is have members opposite given consideration to what this will do for the cost of living? Can I share with my colleagues a fact that I\u2019m very proud of: if you look at every single Government in the history of New Zealand, since this Parliament first sat in 1853, no Government has as good a record on cost of living as the previous Key-English Government. The average level of inflation, the average increase in the cost of living over those years, was 1.6 percent, and that is something I\u2019m enormously proud of. I\u2019ll say this to you: I\u2019ve fought 10 election campaigns; there\u2019s only one of those\u2014only one of those\u2014in which the cost of living was not an issue. How many of my colleagues, on any side of the Chamber, can recall the cost of living being a significant issue in the 2017 election? It was not, and the reason it was not is because every National member, for nine years, regardless of what portfolio they had, was focused on ensuring that we did not impose unreasonable costs on New Zealand households.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000804\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e978865e-57e5-41d6-a7f6-b49daae78630\u0022\u003ESo I challenge members opposite and the Minister in the chair, Phil Twyford, to tell us what putting GST on this regional petrol tax is going to do for the cost of living. We all know on this side of the Chamber that this will flow through to the cost of vegies, this will flow through to the cost of bread, this will flow through to the cost of your bus, and this will flow through to every single element of the economy. And here\u2019s the sad fact: not a member of New Zealand First, or the Labour or the Green parties, give a toss for the costs that they are imposing on New Zealand families, and it will be the end of them.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u002203fd985b-4fb8-4111-ba38-5033a254d962\u0022 data-id=\u00229be8986b694546b7a86f3f97bcc8e353\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000805\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002203fd985b-4fb8-4111-ba38-5033a254d962\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u00229be8986b694546b7a86f3f97bcc8e353\u0022\u003EBRETT HUDSON (National):\u003C/span\u003E Thank you, Madam Chair. Following on from my colleague\u2019s contribution, I also want to mention GST, because, like Mr Smith, I recall the times when the Rt Hon Winston Peters has railed against a tax on a tax. He does it on rates; he\u2019s done it consistently for years on fuel excise. Here\u2019s his opportunity. Here\u2019s his opportunity to show that New Zealand First does what it says on the tin. He can come down here; he can talk to the Minister in the chair and get a Government Supplementary Order Paper (SOP) in. The way I would suggest, just to help elucidate on what Mr Smith was saying, is zero-rate the GST on the regional fuel tax (RFT). The reason you would zero-rate the GST is because that way you still file it as part of the GST claim, so, therefore, the person could still claim the GST on the other components within the price of the fuel\u2014so on the fuel excise, for instance. If it was to be exempted, if you exempt the regional fuel tax, there is a risk, then, that that might actually prevent a claim on the rest of the GST within the petrol price.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000806\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002203fd985b-4fb8-4111-ba38-5033a254d962\u0022\u003ESo I would suggest and I call on the Minister: work with your officials, Minister. Put together a Government SOP\u2014it wouldn\u2019t be a difficult one to do. In fact, go a bit further: don\u2019t just zero-rate the GST on the regional fuel tax, be bold. New Zealanders are facing the very real likelihood of further increases in petrol price beyond your extortionate regional fuel tax. They\u2019re facing the real prospect, even outside of the islands of Waiheke and Great Barrier Island, of paying $3 or more a litre. Well, the Government is in a position to help them. First of all, put an SOP in to zero-rate GST on the regional fuel tax, but go further. Look at zero-rating not only the initial excise increases that the Government has planned over the next three years but also the existing excise. Help struggling Kiwis out. Give them an even break, because they deserve it, they work hard, and they\u2019re fuelling your spending plans through the imposition of the tax. Give them a little bit back through a bit of relief on the GST.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000807\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002203fd985b-4fb8-4111-ba38-5033a254d962\u0022\u003EThe other item I want to talk about in this part is clause 5, the \u201CAdditional information: RFT schemes\u201D\u2014the reporting which the agency has to make to Government, to New Zealand. If you look on the face of it, it looks pretty simple\u2014\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000808\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002275a05f96-2474-4c90-a6ea-cf7b5798e03e\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022a37655fb42b2411fb3c4cbcbfce8041c\u0022\u003EHon Ruth Dyson\u003C/span\u003E: What clause?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000809\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002203fd985b-4fb8-4111-ba38-5033a254d962\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u00229712948dd5634a65b28b4d4b1d79c87f\u0022\u003EBRETT HUDSON\u003C/span\u003E: \u2014just telling what the RFT is meant to do, the project that it\u2019s being used on, but I think there\u2019s an essential ingredient that\u2019s missing from these items. The essential ingredient is about the quality of the spend. What it isn\u2019t doing is it isn\u2019t tracking\u2014\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000810\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022c0e0c86e-e14d-4daa-9bc8-1b5a3d7defeb\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022a1ca94b7595a4f72918fbfca6b843355\u0022\u003ECHAIRPERSON (Poto Williams)\u003C/span\u003E: Order! Could I just ask the member to tell me what clause he was\u2014\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000811\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002203fd985b-4fb8-4111-ba38-5033a254d962\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022347cf89d45444a58948d645bd615a82d\u0022\u003EBRETT HUDSON\u003C/span\u003E: Clause 5, new section 34B, \u201CAdditional information: RFT schemes\u201D. Sorry, not clause 5, it is clause 10(5), sorry. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000812\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022c0e0c86e-e14d-4daa-9bc8-1b5a3d7defeb\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u00229851d8554ab14688a448f6c9b8721b01\u0022\u003E CHAIRPERSON (Poto Williams)\u003C/span\u003E: Thank you.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000813\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002203fd985b-4fb8-4111-ba38-5033a254d962\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u00221e631a55f6154b7dbb65002fb07c842a\u0022\u003EBRETT HUDSON\u003C/span\u003E: Clause 10(5), new section 34B, \u201CAdditional information:\u201D. It\u2019s about the agency reporting to Government and therefore to New Zealand. It does report on what the tax is being spent on, what\u2019s in the programme, but what it doesn\u2019t do is report on either the quality of the spend or the benefit realisation for the programme that is being signed off for the tax to apply to. I think it\u2019s actually important that, because so many of these projects can last a great deal of time\u2014span, indeed, multiple years\u2014the agency is showing to Government and to New Zealand that the programme, the project that hard-working taxpayers\u2019 money is funding, is, indeed, on track to deliver the benefits it said it would, and, in particular, that the quality of the project as it was first signed off still applies.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000814\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002203fd985b-4fb8-4111-ba38-5033a254d962\u0022\u003EThere are clauses within this bill that allow for amendment to the regional fuel tax if new circumstances come to light. So what might start off as 5c a litre\u2014I could laugh at that, because I doubt that any one of them will come in at less than 10c a litre\u2014because the Minister has the power, via an Order in Council, to increase the RFT over 10c a litre anyway, then the variance provisions that exist in Part 1 of the bill could mean that the fuel tax could be increased part-way through the project, and therefore the whole quality of that project should be reassessed.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000815\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002203fd985b-4fb8-4111-ba38-5033a254d962\u0022\u003ESo I call on the Minister\u2014a simple SOP, a simple change to this to make sure you\u2019ve got quality, items of quality of spend, and the anticipated benefits tracking so that through the lifetime of the project, you can give certainty to Government and certainty to New Zealanders that the taxpayers\u2019 hard-earned money that is being fleeced from their back pockets is at least going to deliver the benefits for which it was anticipated. I think that will be a very wise thing to add.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u00228a1cb04e-8a86-44d1-9004-6e158e220339\u0022 data-id=\u002293dd45a97379425a98594d32342925f7\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000816\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00228a1cb04e-8a86-44d1-9004-6e158e220339\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u002293dd45a97379425a98594d32342925f7\u0022\u003EHon TIM MACINDOE (National\u2014Hamilton West):\u003C/span\u003E Thank you, Madam Chair. Kia orana to you. May I begin the first of these contributions on Part 2 of this bill by endorsing the comments of my very good colleague the Hon Dr Nick Smith. I was a little alarmed when he spoke of the vast benefit of his experience, of fighting 10 elections, to realise I\u2019ve fought nearly as many as he has and yet I still haven\u2019t been here for anything like half the time. But I\u2019m learning, and I\u2019m catching up, and I\u2019m hoping that if I spend as long here as the Rt Hon Winston Peters, I just might, finally, match his record.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000817\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00228a1cb04e-8a86-44d1-9004-6e158e220339\u0022\u003EI do want to associate myself seriously both with his comments and the comments that Brett Hudson has just made. I was very encouraged to see Jenny Marcroft with her head down as Mr Hudson was speaking, because I assume\u2014\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000818\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022e978865e-57e5-41d6-a7f6-b49daae78630\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022a59ad57cb09a4b8f9b64143523842698\u0022\u003EHon Dr Nick Smith\u003C/span\u003E: She\u2019s embarrassed.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000819\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00228a1cb04e-8a86-44d1-9004-6e158e220339\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u002288f238c6a6514487bd3569b49a2c589b\u0022\u003EHon TIM MACINDOE\u003C/span\u003E: No, I assume\u2014well, she may have been, Dr Smith, but I wouldn\u2019t possibly wish to comment on that. More importantly, however, I think she was taking on board the advice we were both giving her: that, as a very diligent\u2014and I know she\u2019s a well-intentioned New Zealand First member; clearly she was, indeed, writing that amendment, as was being suggested to her. I look forward to reading it, and, in fact, I\u2019m happy to pledge my support for her amendment, as long as it is tabled with the wording that has been suggested that essentially says the New Zealand First Party should finally be true to its principles.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000820\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002275a05f96-2474-4c90-a6ea-cf7b5798e03e\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u002205563e9ece324a4cb1f93cafbd96aedb\u0022\u003EHon Ruth Dyson\u003C/span\u003E: Give Part 2 a go.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000821\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00228a1cb04e-8a86-44d1-9004-6e158e220339\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022a2314094ec4c41c29d05d269272da46f\u0022\u003EHon TIM MACINDOE\u003C/span\u003E: Yes, I am talking about Part 2, Ms Dyson, and I want, in particular, to say I\u2019m pleased to see that the Minister in charge of the bill, Phil Twyford, is still in the chair, because I\u2019ve got a couple of questions and a couple of points I\u2019d like him to comment upon.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000822\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00228a1cb04e-8a86-44d1-9004-6e158e220339\u0022\u003EThe first is that under clause 7(3), \u201CAfter section 5(6B), insert:\u201D\u2014and in the third line there we\u2019ve got a line that I think might be a drafting error, and I\u2019d like the Minister to have a look at it and clarify. What we read there is \u201Cfor a supply of services in the course or furtherance of a taxable activity carried on by the New Zealand Transport Agency\u201D, and I wonder whether that word \u201Con\u201D is really meant, or whether it should, in fact, be the word \u201Cout\u201D. If it should be \u201Cout\u201D, then I would suggest that \u201Con\u201D needs to be taken out, and we need to consider an amendment, because I worry very much that sloppily drafted legislation can have all sorts of unintended consequences, beyond the fact that this is already a bill that is clearly going to hurt New Zealanders the length and breadth of the country.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000823\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00228a1cb04e-8a86-44d1-9004-6e158e220339\u0022\u003EIf it is not a drafting error, could I ask the Minister, please, to explain to us what \u201Ccarried on by the New Zealand Transport Agency\u201D means, because when I think of the expression \u201Ccarrying on\u201D, it normally means playing up, acting the goat, doing all sorts of strange things, and I can\u2019t imagine for one moment\u2014even though that may be the way most members of Government parties carry on in their activities outside this Chamber\u2014that they intended to write that into the legislation.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000824\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00228a1cb04e-8a86-44d1-9004-6e158e220339\u0022\u003EI\u2019d also like to have a look at section 5(6BB)(b), inserted by that particular clause 7(3): \u201Cany amount of RFT rebate paid under section 65X \u2026 to a registered person is treated as being consideration for a supply of services in the course or furtherance of the registered person\u2019s taxable activity to the extent to which the RFT rebate relates to fuel used by the person for, or available for use by the person in, making taxable supplies.\u201D Well, thank you, \u201CSir Humphrey\u201D; I\u2019m sure we\u2019re all absolutely clear about what that means. Could I ask the Minister in the chair, please, to tell us in English: what on earth does that mean? In particular, if we\u2019re going to be passing clauses of this type into legislation, making them the law of this land, we all ought to be able to understand exactly what it means, and, in particular, we need to know why it is necessary. I assume, from the fact that the Minister is at the moment busily texting one of his officials to find out the answer, we\u2019ll get that fairly soon, but could he please explain to us: what does that mean?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000825\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00228a1cb04e-8a86-44d1-9004-6e158e220339\u0022\u003EI also would like to talk, if we go over the page on to page 28\u2014and I must admit I initially thought, \u201CWell, there are far fewer pages in Part 2 of the bill. We might not have as much to talk about.\u201D But, in fact, I think that one of the most insidious aspects of this bill is to be found in clause 10(5), inserting new section 34B, \u201CAdditional information: RFT schemes\u201D. There we read, \u201CThe regional council of an RFT region\u201D\u2014not \u201Cof the Auckland region\u201D; \u201Cof an RFT region\u201D. So if anybody listening to this debate around the country tonight was in any doubt whatsoever that this doesn\u2019t just apply to the Auckland region, there, I\u2019m afraid, their hopes are dashed, because where it refers to \u201Can RFT region\u201D it is quite clearly the Government\u2019s intention that this is coming to a place near you, New Zealanders. Every one of us is going to be affected. They didn\u2019t tell us that at the outset. They\u2019re sneaking it in. It\u2019s a particularly nasty, sleazy way of dealing with this issue, but here we\u2019ve got the proof: any \u201CRFT region\u201D.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u0022163d0b68-eb0e-4094-9bed-99e184f063e1\u0022 data-id=\u0022f11c929176894b8e9cc316bfae27871a\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000826\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022163d0b68-eb0e-4094-9bed-99e184f063e1\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u0022f11c929176894b8e9cc316bfae27871a\u0022\u003EJAMI-LEE ROSS (National\u2014Botany):\u003C/span\u003E I\u2019m glad that we\u2019re having this debate and examining in great detail\u2014and I say great detail\u2014the GST elements of the regional fuel tax, because I know Phil Twyford gets worked up and very unhappy when we talk about the fact that this legislation is full of misleading statements. They said one thing in an election, but they\u2019ve come to the Parliament with something different. If there\u2019s anything that highlights misleading statements out there, it\u2019s the fact that they keep saying, \u201CRegional fuel taxes are only 10c a litre\u201D\u2014or actually that they\u2019re not putting 25c a litre\u2019s worth of new taxes out there for New Zealanders. The reality is these taxes that they say are only 10c a litre are 11.5c a litre. This is an 11.5c a litre regional fuel tax. Phil Twyford, through this legislation, isn\u2019t getting just the power to put 10c a litre on taxpayers in Auckland; he\u2019s giving himself the power to put fuel taxes on motorists in regions around the whole country, not at 10c a litre but at 11.5c a litre. And so I hope that the members opposite are more honest with their voters and with the public out there when they\u2019re talking about regional fuel taxes, because it\u2019s not 10c a litre. It\u2019s got GST. Let\u2019s stop misleading New Zealanders about how much they\u2019re paying.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000827\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022163d0b68-eb0e-4094-9bed-99e184f063e1\u0022\u003EWe also need to remember that anything that they put in place when it comes to taxes is cumulative, and when it comes to GST and comes to all of the other taxes that they\u2019re wanting to put on to motorists, it all adds up to 25c a litre. I\u2019m also pleased that we\u2019re giving a lot of consideration to this particular part, because clause 10 in there, inserting new sections which would make amendments to the Local Government Act, has a lot of information in there that we should be debating, and we should be coming up with new ideas about what councils should be reporting on. I\u2019d like to signal this side of the Chamber is working on some new amendments, because we quite enjoyed the hour\u2019s worth of voting on Part 1, and we think it\u2019s\u2014\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000828\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002275a05f96-2474-4c90-a6ea-cf7b5798e03e\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u00222769ba5a9a724912ab114c1fd6c2587f\u0022\u003EHon Ruth Dyson\u003C/span\u003E: You didn\u2019t win a single one.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000829\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022163d0b68-eb0e-4094-9bed-99e184f063e1\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022f292149071594c49ba24ed6ffee8253e\u0022\u003EJAMI-LEE ROSS\u003C/span\u003E: Madam Government chief whip\u2014it\u2019s probably something that she\u2019d quite like to repeat, as well. But that clause making changes to the Local Government Act around what councils should be reporting on in their annual report is very important, and the very reason why it\u2019s so important is because this legislation\u2014giving power for taxation\u2014is not just an Auckland issue. It\u2019s something that voters and the public around the whole country will need more information on, because they were misled into thinking that this bill was only around Auckland, when it\u2019s not. And so for councils and regions in the future, when the Labour-led Government puts in place regional fuel taxes on every\u2014every\u2014region around the country, which they\u2019re legislating for, it\u2019s important through these particular reports that will be produced by local government that we see hard evidence about why it\u2019s important for those regions.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000830\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022163d0b68-eb0e-4094-9bed-99e184f063e1\u0022\u003EI say it can be funded elsewhere. I say it can be funded in a different way. I say that the Government has the ability to fund transport infrastructure without the need for regional fuel taxes. But if there are going to be regional fuel taxes in regions around the country that weren\u2019t expecting to have to pay more taxes thanks to Phil Twyford, that weren\u2019t expecting that they\u2019d have to pay fuel taxes higher than 10c a litre because the Minister is writing regulation-making powers that give him the ability to put fuel taxes at a much greater rate than 10c a litre, they deserve to have this information.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000831\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022163d0b68-eb0e-4094-9bed-99e184f063e1\u0022\u003EBut, in fact, the information that is there in those local government reports should not just be limited in the way that\u2019s in this bill; it should be quite expansive. Now, a debate that we\u2019ve had a lot in this Chamber, through questions, and a debate that we\u2019ve had in select committee is around the issue of price spreading. So I say that local governments, which pride themselves on being involved in every nook and cranny they can possibly find out there in their region, should be looking intensively at the issue of price spreading. They should be looking at the issue about affordability as well and how it\u2019s going to impact the lowest-income people the most.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000832\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022163d0b68-eb0e-4094-9bed-99e184f063e1\u0022\u003EBecause I know those people that are elected to local councils, whilst we expect them to stick to core services mostly, they like to spend a lot of time caring about well-being and the cost of living and all of those other issues that affect the people in their area. So I say that when it comes to regional fuel taxes and when it comes to local government annual reports, they should be looking seriously at the cost and the impact on people that the Twyford taxes are going to be putting on people in their particular regions. When it comes to local government caring about the well-being of individuals and how they reported it, I think they should be looking at, for example, South Auckland, where the people who are the lowest-paid people in the country, the people that\u2014[Time expired]\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u00220c51564f-6c6e-45cc-adab-f15b6c831fce\u0022 data-id=\u0022d8f6216abb37490ca119e1069c957636\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000833\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00220c51564f-6c6e-45cc-adab-f15b6c831fce\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u0022d8f6216abb37490ca119e1069c957636\u0022\u003ELAWRENCE YULE (National\u2014Tukituki):\u003C/span\u003E Thank you, Madam Chair. It gives me pleasure to speak to Part 2 of this bill, and I want to come back to a comment that was made by the Hon Dr Nick Smith, \u201Cpay more and get less\u201D. And for the people that I represent, that\u2019s exactly what these changes mean: $5 billion taken out of the State highway network, most of it into Auckland; a new tax that we\u2019re told is mostly for Auckland, but if you read the legislation it can be rolled out anywhere in New Zealand. And who I want to represent are the motorists and the constituents that are actually going to be paying for these costs. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000834\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00220c51564f-6c6e-45cc-adab-f15b6c831fce\u0022\u003EI want to specifically talk about transparency, because, actually, this is a 10-year tax. Once it comes in, it is in there, boots and all\u2014tax and the GST committing everybody who buys fuel in that particular area for 10 years. It\u2019s clear in this part of the legislation, as the Hon Tim Macindoe said just previously, that it can be used anywhere in New Zealand. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000835\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00220c51564f-6c6e-45cc-adab-f15b6c831fce\u0022\u003ESo I want to come to a specific clause in Part 2, which is clause 10(5), which inserts section 34B, which is about additional information required for regional fuel tax schemes. It says in subsection (1), \u201CThe regional council of an RFT region, in its annual report, must report on\u2014(a) the revenue from an RFT scheme paid to the council by the Agency; and (b) how that revenue was applied by the council, including to which projects and for what purposes (for example, capital expenditures, debt repayment, operational expenditures); and (c) progress with respect to the programme of capital projects supported by the RFT scheme.\u201D\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000836\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00220c51564f-6c6e-45cc-adab-f15b6c831fce\u0022\u003EI acknowledge the Minister of Local Government here as well. I\u2019m yet to read and yet to see less than 1 percent of the population I formally represented ever read an annual report. We are making a tax here for 10 years that everybody\u2019s going to pay, and all we ask the council to do is simply report it in a document. To the Minister, I say that I actually think we need to do more, and I propose an amendment in my name, which amends section 34B, in clause 10, by adding new subsection (3), which says that regional councils are required to write to all electors annually, after their annual report, to inform them on the progress of the RFT scheme in their region. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000837\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00220c51564f-6c6e-45cc-adab-f15b6c831fce\u0022\u003EI do that because I note that every piece of expenditure in this particular Parliament is looked at annually, every piece of expenditure in a local authority is looked at annually, and every three years, every ratepayer in that local authority gets to look at the long-term budget, yet in this case, all the legislation currently provides for is that we write it in an annual report. I don\u2019t think that goes far enough. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000838\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00220c51564f-6c6e-45cc-adab-f15b6c831fce\u0022\u003EWith taxation come some obligations, and the obligations are that members in our community need to understand in a very direct way how their money is being used. We insist on that in consultation requirements under the Local Government Act, and we insist on it, actually, in this parliamentary process. Yet here we have a taxation regime that largely says, \u201CSet it in place, get some community agreement at the start, get ministerial agreement, and then leave it for 10 years, and simply report.\u201D\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000839\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00220c51564f-6c6e-45cc-adab-f15b6c831fce\u0022\u003EI don\u2019t think that goes far enough when we\u2019re going to charge motorists up to 11.5 cents per litre, without the Governor-General\u2019s agreement to go higher. Fuel excise taxes are going to go up by 12c in the next three years. And I actually think this is a big, and now a growing and bigger, part of people\u2019s lives, and they need to be informed, just like any other business or any other local authority would, on the impact on them, because, in my view, when you tax people you have an obligation. You have an obligation to show them how it\u2019s being used and whether it\u2019s still appropriate, and I remind this committee that things actually change. If there was a great global crisis you might want to actually adjust some of that stuff. People might want to have an understanding. So I think it behoves this committee to consider my amendment\u2014and I\u2019m asking the Minister to seriously consider it\u2014to that provision in order to allow the communities that I represent, who will be funding this tax, to have very detailed and personal information.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u00225e6b7aaa-8157-4d5e-9940-1bdbcd61ae95\u0022 data-id=\u002222265e05d2eb4d988470e769bf24b6dc\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000840\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00225e6b7aaa-8157-4d5e-9940-1bdbcd61ae95\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u002222265e05d2eb4d988470e769bf24b6dc\u0022\u003EALASTAIR SCOTT (National\u2014Wairarapa):\u003C/span\u003E Thank you, Madam Chair. They call themselves the Government of transparency\u2014the Government of transparency and accountability. They say that they\u2019re happy to be accounted for their actions and their performance. But we look at new clause 34B, \u201CAdditional information: RFT schemes\u201D, and there are simply three paragraphs in subsection (1): (a), (b), and (c). They have to report on the revenue, how that revenue was applied by the council\u2014well, let\u2019s hope it\u2019s applied to the capital project\u2014and they have to report on progress. And that\u2019s it. There are no key performance indicators. There is no measurement against any business case. There\u2019s no reporting on whether the project is ahead of schedule or behind schedule, or whether the costs are blown out or in favour. Where is this transparency? Where is this accountability? I tell you, if you turned up to a board meeting at any half-decent company in the country and you said, \u201CWell, I\u2019m just going to report on the revenue, where I\u2019ve spent it, and the progress.\u201D, you\u2019d get kicked out. This is not a\u2014but it\u2019s quite difficult, I guess, to report on something that is so vague.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000841\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00225e6b7aaa-8157-4d5e-9940-1bdbcd61ae95\u0022\u003EIf I can just reflect back to what it would be reported against, because the content requirements for a scheme are so vague it\u2019s laughable. If I can refer to new section 65E(a), (b), (c), (d), (e), (f), and (g), which are the content requirements for a project\u2014I\u2019ll just read very quickly. Paragraph (a) starts with the word \u201Cdescribe\u201D. Well, that\u2019s very nice\u2014nice and fluffy. Then paragraph (b) starts \u201Cwith regard to the programme,\u2014(i) state its objectives; and (ii) describe \u2026 (iii) explain\u201D\u2014explain\u2014\u201C(iv) explain why it is desirable\u201D. Well, how concrete is that? How measurable is that? How accountable is that?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000842\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00225e6b7aaa-8157-4d5e-9940-1bdbcd61ae95\u0022\u003EParagraph (c) starts with \u201Cfor each project in the programme,\u2014(i) describe\u201D\u2014again; here\u2019s another one in subparagraph (ii)\u2014\u201Cdescribe\u201D\u2014and \u201Cexplain\u201D in subparagraph (iii). Once again, in subparagraph (iv), there is \u201Cset out \u2026 [a] completion date;\u201D. Well, there\u2019s something concrete that we can measure it by. In subparagraph (v), \u201Cstate the amount of capital expenditure\u201D\u2014that\u2019s fairly concrete; then: \u201C(vii), state the amount of debt repayment [and] (viii) specify\u201D. But the requirements for the project are so vague, it\u2019s difficult to report on. It\u2019s difficult to be transparent, to be fair to those who are running the project.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000843\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00225e6b7aaa-8157-4d5e-9940-1bdbcd61ae95\u0022\u003ESo my point here is that there is a lack of transparency. There is a lack of accountability. There is a lack of detail in clause 10 under Part 2, inserting new clause 34B in schedule 10 of the Local Government Act 2002.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000844\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00225e6b7aaa-8157-4d5e-9940-1bdbcd61ae95\u0022\u003EThe second part of my contribution I would like to relate to the GST, and here is an opportunity for the Government\u2014and the Minister has already acknowledged that this tax is regressive. It is regressive. It hurts those who can least afford it. It hurts those who are in inefficient cars. It hurts those in rural and regional New Zealand who have to travel long distances. So what a great opportunity to exempt this regional tax from GST. Now remember, of course, that this regional tax goes to the regional council. It\u2019s not a central government tax; it goes to the regional council. But, hello, central government has decided to treat it as a service and to dip their hands in and take the GST component, because, well, you know, they sort of can. It\u2019s just a tax that they\u2019ve got an opportunity\u2014you know, it\u2019s like offering lollies, and why wouldn\u2019t you take them?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000845\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00225e6b7aaa-8157-4d5e-9940-1bdbcd61ae95\u0022\u003ESo central government has taken the opportunity not to acknowledge the regressiveness of this tax, not to support provincial New Zealand, and not to support those who can least afford it by making sure and ensuring the GST is on this tax that the Government is not even collecting. It is a regional tax. So if it\u2019s a regional tax, why is the central government getting involved by taxing and applying GST? It doesn\u2019t make sense.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000846\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u00225e6b7aaa-8157-4d5e-9940-1bdbcd61ae95\u0022\u003EIt\u2019s a regional tax. Let the regions tax and take the money, if they must\u2014the 10c\u2014but it\u2019s double-dipping. It\u2019s a tax on a tax. It\u2019s central government taking and adding to a tax which is not relevant to them. Therefore, what a great opportunity for the Minister to exempt the GST.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u0022943fd636-21ec-4442-9a72-68c49464776f\u0022 data-id=\u0022b35f8317ea9f4972a93721ca108f216d\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000847\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022943fd636-21ec-4442-9a72-68c49464776f\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u0022b35f8317ea9f4972a93721ca108f216d\u0022\u003EDENISE LEE (National\u2014Maungakiekie):\u003C/span\u003E Thank you, Madam Chair. I\u2019m happy to speak to Part 2. I\u2019m going to refer to\u2014just a heads-up\u2014an amendment that I had in Part 1, but I\u2019m doing that because I\u2019d like to ask the Minister if he\u2019d have any objection to applying this to Part 2. I am specifically referring to an amendment to the Local Government Act 2002, and it is \u201CIn schedule 10, after clause 34A, insert:\u201D, and then they\u2019ve got \u201C34B Additional information: RFT schemes\u201D.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000848\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022943fd636-21ec-4442-9a72-68c49464776f\u0022\u003ESo this is the new clause that I\u2019m referring to. Now, what we\u2019ve got in this clause here is that \u201C(1) The regional council of an RFT region,\u201D\u2014and I pick up on my colleague\u2019s note that that\u2019s very telling; \u201Can RFT region\u201D, so think much wider than Auckland\u2014\u201Cin its annual report, must report on\u2014(a) the revenue from an RFT scheme paid to the council by the Agency; and (b) how that revenue was applied by the council, including to which projects and for purposes (for example, capital expenditures, debt repayment, operational expenditures); and (c) progress with respect to the programme of capital projects supported by the RFT scheme.\u201D\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000849\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022943fd636-21ec-4442-9a72-68c49464776f\u0022\u003ENow, what\u2019s not here\u2014and this is what I proposed in Part 1 and am now wanting to know from the Minister in the chair, Phil Twyford, why it could not be here in Part 2\u2014is that the council review the scheme at the same time as each annual council budget. Now, when I say review, I\u2019m not just talking about what is already listed here: review all \u201Cin its annual report \u2026 report on \u2026 revenue \u2026 how the revenue was applied \u2026 progress with respect to \u2026 capital projects\u201D. It\u2019s an actual review\u2014in other words, should the tax still be in place, full stop? At each annual budget for a council, ask the question: should it be in place, full stop? Is there another way to fund this\u2014basic, fundamental questions?\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000850\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022943fd636-21ec-4442-9a72-68c49464776f\u0022\u003EI note that earlier on in the bill, a council must review the scheme\u2014that\u2019s the wording, \u201Creview [the] \u2026 scheme\u201D\u2014before it proposes to extend or replace it. How about review it just on an annual basis, because we should always ask the question: should it still be in place? So I\u2019d like to hear from the Minister why the fundamental question annually should not be asked: why do we keep doing this, especially when given that these regional fuel tax schemes\u2014plural\u2014will be in place for a long time: 10 years? We don\u2019t want these schemes to get out of sight and out of mind in councils\u2019 worlds. We need them to be annually up to the fore and asking fundamental questions as to their relevance and whether they should still stay in place.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000851\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022943fd636-21ec-4442-9a72-68c49464776f\u0022\u003EGiven the rushed process to even get to this point, do we not think that annually, fundamentally asking whether this should stay in place is the right thing to do? The process to get to here tonight was truncated; it was shortened. The Ministry of Transport said there was no cost-benefit analysis, fuel companies have not had time to accurately quantify the cost of the collection of the regional fuel tax. There\u2019s been a number of things that have been rushed\u2014not just felt rushed but have been rushed\u2014and so, in this instance, let\u2019s annually take the time to ask the question that is so incredibly fundamental.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000852\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022943fd636-21ec-4442-9a72-68c49464776f\u0022\u003EI want to underscore the fact that this could be in place for a very long time\u201410 years. When you have something that lasts that long, it is beholden to us as lawmakers and to the power that we\u2019re giving to councils to be very clear with their ratepayers, constituents\u2014whatever terminology we want to use\u2014that this is something that we will ask the question of annually.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000853\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022943fd636-21ec-4442-9a72-68c49464776f\u0022\u003ESo I\u2019d like to hear from the Minister. Again, it\u2019s in that new clause 34B, \u201CAdditional information: RFT schemes\u201D, whether there should be\u2014it could be paragraph (1)(d). And wording\u2014feel free to take some of my wording from my amendment in Part 1 in regard to reviewing the scheme at the same time annually in each council budget. Thank you.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u0022f96cdca1-b63c-4602-b2b3-276f58ebb518\u0022 data-id=\u0022e720c36636a543e2bf113e05dd2ea2a7\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000854\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022f96cdca1-b63c-4602-b2b3-276f58ebb518\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u0022e720c36636a543e2bf113e05dd2ea2a7\u0022\u003ECHRIS PENK (National\u2014Helensville):\u003C/span\u003E Thank you, Madam Chair, for the opportunity to speak on this, Part 2 of the Land Transport Management (Regional Fuel Tax) Amendment Bill, for as long as I can manage ahead of the closing-time bell. \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000855\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022f96cdca1-b63c-4602-b2b3-276f58ebb518\u0022\u003EThese amendments to other Acts are what we might call consequential amendments, meaning, of course, in a technical sense, that they flow as a consequence of this amendment bill. But they\u2019re also consequential in the other meaning of that word: they are significant. They are significant in lots of different ways, and that is reflected by the fact that they change so many other pieces of legislation.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000856\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022f96cdca1-b63c-4602-b2b3-276f58ebb518\u0022\u003EColleagues have touched on the fact that these changes are 15 percent more consequential than they would otherwise be, except that GST is applied to this. \u201CA tax upon a tax\u201D is the phrase that\u2019s been used by several other speakers, so there is no need for me to repeat that now.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000857\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u002275a05f96-2474-4c90-a6ea-cf7b5798e03e\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022ce41116cfffd44ed80f66c95aab067d6\u0022\u003EHon Ruth Dyson\u003C/span\u003E: You just did.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000858\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022f96cdca1-b63c-4602-b2b3-276f58ebb518\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsBy\u0022 id=\u0022b069ce8fefe04a77af90d5eabfabd25b\u0022\u003ECHRIS PENK\u003C/span\u003E: And I think, in my time that remains, if I can manage any more comments without interruption by the Hon Ruth Dyson\u2014\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\u003Ca name=\u0022member\u0022 data-type=\u0022article\u0022 data-memberid=\u0022c0e0c86e-e14d-4daa-9bc8-1b5a3d7defeb\u0022 data-id=\u0022ffea238c02f74699b6e098c8ab10aff3\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000859\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022c0e0c86e-e14d-4daa-9bc8-1b5a3d7defeb\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsByToc\u0022 id=\u0022ffea238c02f74699b6e098c8ab10aff3\u0022\u003ECHAIRPERSON (Poto Williams)\u003C/span\u003E: I apologise to the member. The time has come for me to report progress.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000860\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022c0e0c86e-e14d-4daa-9bc8-1b5a3d7defeb\u0022\u003EHouse resumed.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000861\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022c0e0c86e-e14d-4daa-9bc8-1b5a3d7defeb\u0022\u003EThe Chairperson reported progress on the Land Transport Management (Regional Fuel Tax) Amendment Bill, and no progress on the Taxation (Neutralising Base Erosion and Profit Shifting) Bill.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000862\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022c0e0c86e-e14d-4daa-9bc8-1b5a3d7defeb\u0022\u003EReport adopted.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n      \u003Cp id=\u0022id20180619276bafc99f704490b9490a5ebda9727c000863\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022HpsNormal\u0022 id=\u0022c0e0c86e-e14d-4daa-9bc8-1b5a3d7defeb\u0022\u003EThe House adjourned at 9.56 p.m.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n    \u003C/div\u003E\n  \u003C/body\u003E\n\u003C/html\u003E"