edithatogo/nz-hansard-corpus huggingface dataset:
[Volume:619;Page:15077] 
I have to say that I support the Primary Production Committee’s recommendation that the bill do not proceed. This bill did seek to amend the Misuse of Drugs Act by inserting a new definition of industrial hemp and excluding industrial hemp from the definition of a prohibited plant. The changes would mean that any plant of the cannabis species that contained less than 0.3 percent of THC would no longer be a controlled drug. In effect anyone could grow industrial hemp without a licence and this would have had major implications for enforcing the Misuse of Drugs Act.
Cullen Michael: Questions for Oral Answer — Questions to Ministers 
Cullen Michael: Questions for Oral Answer — Questions to Ministers 
[Volume:610;Page:7136] 
Hon Dr MICHAEL CULLEN (Leader of the House) 
: 
 Every Prime Minister in my living memory has transferred questions where he or she has seen it appropriate to do so. I have never seen a Prime Minister who has not done it. I repeat that the comment referred to in the question was clearly made by the Associate Minister of Justice. It might have been in a newspaper report but I am sure that both the members who have so far spoken on points of order would accept that at times not all their comments have been correctly quoted in the media.
Hughes Darren: Building Bill — In Committee 
Hughes Darren: Building Bill — In Committee 
[Volume:619;Page:14780] 
DARREN HUGHES (Labour—Otaki) 
: 
 I move  
That the question be now put 
.
Sittings of the House 
Sittings of the House 
[Volume:624;Page:19676] 
Sittings of the House 
Hon DAVID CUNLIFFE (Minister for Communications) 
: 
 I seek leave for the House to continue sitting so that the Employment Relations (Flexible Working Hours) Amendment Bill may be completed and at the completion of the bill for the House to then rise so that members can participate in the State dinner for the President of Indonesia. 
Hon RICHARD PREBBLE (ACT) 
: 
 I raise a point of order Mr Speaker. I think I heard a Government Minister saying that we should stop Parliament so he can go and have a rip-roaringly good dinner with the President of Indonesia. 
Hon Member 
: Flexible working hours. 
Hon RICHARD PREBBLE 
: Well that is flexible working hours. That is one of the most outrageous proposals I have heard from a Minister for a long time. We are elected here to be members of Parliament not to go and have dinners whenever we feel like it. Speaking on behalf of the ACT party I say that we are here to represent the taxpayer and to keep the Government honest and we most certainly will not agree to a proposal like that regardless of how ambitious Mr Cunliffe might be to go to a dinner. 
The ASSISTANT SPEAKER (H V Ross Robertson) 
: So the member is taking objection.  
Sitting suspended from 6 p.m. to 7.30 p.m. 
Hon Dr MICHAEL CULLEN (Leader of the House) 
: 
 I seek leave for the House to rise at the conclusion of this debate and the taking of the vote on the bill. 
Madam SPEAKER 
: Leave is sought. Is there any objection? 
Hon RICHARD PREBBLE (ACT) 
: 
 I raise a point of order Madam Speaker. The Government junior Minister put exactly the same proposal at 6 o’clock. The idea that Parliament should adjourn so that Government Ministers can go to a dinner is an outrage. The ACT party believes we are paid to be here as members of Parliament and we are prepared to stay here. We most certainly will not agree but of course if the Government wants to be more reasonable and allow question time next week we will reconsider the matter. 
Madam SPEAKER 
: So there is an objection. Leave has been declined.
Brown Peter: Questions for Oral Answer — Questions to Ministers 
Brown Peter: Questions for Oral Answer — Questions to Ministers 
[Volume:622;Page:17375] 
3.  
PETER BROWN (Deputy Leader—NZ First) 
 to the  
Minister of Immigration 
: Can he explain the purpose of the Occupational Shortages List and how is it operated? 
Hon DAMIEN O'CONNOR (Acting Minister of Immigration) 
: The purpose of the Occupational Shortages List is to enhance and streamline the processing of work permits and visas and approvals in principle for work permits or visas where there is a known regional labour market skills shortage. 
Peter Brown 
: Noting that answer is there any compulsion on any employer at all to convince the Department of Labour that it cannot employ anybody domestically before it can apply to fill the vacancy via that list? 
Hon DAMIEN O'CONNOR 
: The Occupational Shortages List is reviewed every 6 months. Industries and employers can make submissions to that process. They have to convince the New Zealand Immigration Service that there is indeed a shortage of skilled workers in that particular area before they will get approval. 
Peter Brown 
: Will the Minister give a categorical assurance to this House that work conditions and employment opportunities for New Zealanders will not be abused as a result of this list; will he give us that assurance now and will he give us the assurance that if they are abused he will resign? 
Hon DAMIEN O'CONNOR 
: I will answer two of those questions. I can give an assurance that it is the highest priority of this Government to ensure that the best conditions and wages are apportioned to New Zealanders before we allow persons into the country through immigration to carry out jobs that would otherwise be carried out by New Zealanders. It is our priority and we will continue to have it that way. 
Hon Tony Ryall 
: Why is this Government so incompetent that it takes 8 weeks to get a work visa in Hamilton but fewer than 6 days in Sydney and fewer than 5 days in London? 
Hon DAMIEN O'CONNOR 
: Firstly this Government is not incompetent; the polls show that and New Zealanders understand that. There will be variations in processing time but the New Zealand Immigration Service moves very quickly. We have implemented a variations of conditions policy whereby 48 hours is all that is required to turn a visitor permit into a work permit in areas where there are identified skills and labour shortages.
Vote: Maori Television Service Bill — In Committee 
Vote: Maori Television Service Bill — In Committee 
[Volume:608;Page:5113] 
A party vote was called for on the question  
That the amendments be agreed to. 
Ayes 61 
Noes 55 
Amendments agreed to. 
Labour 52; Green Party 9. 
New Zealand National 27; New Zealand First 13; ACT New Zealand 7; United Future 8.
Cullen Michael: Reserve Bank of New Zealand Amendment Bill — Instruction to CommitteeCWH 
Cullen Michael: Reserve Bank of New Zealand Amendment Bill — Instruction to CommitteeCWH 
[Volume:610;Page:7874] 
Hon Dr MICHAEL CULLEN (Minister of Finance) 
: 
 I move  
That it be an instruction to the Committee of the whole House on the Reserve Bank of New Zealand Amendment Bill that it take the bill part by part and consider any schedules as one question.
Vote: Resource Management (Aquaculture Moratorium Extension) Amendment Bill — Instruction to Committee In Committee 
Vote: Resource Management (Aquaculture Moratorium Extension) Amendment Bill — Instruction to Committee In Committee 
[Volume:616;Page:11656] 
A party vote was called for on the question  
That Part 1 be agreed to. 
Ayes 84 
New Zealand Labour 52; New Zealand First 13; Green Party 9; United Future 8; Progressive 2. 
Noes 36 
New Zealand National 27; ACT New Zealand 8; Independent: Awatere Huata. 
Part 1 agreed to.
Vote: Parental Leave and Employment Protection Amendment Bill — In Committee 
Vote: Parental Leave and Employment Protection Amendment Bill — In Committee 
[Volume:621;Page:16496] 
A party vote was called for on the question  
That clause 2 as amended be agreed to. 
Ayes 70 
New Zealand Labour 51; Green Party 9; United Future 8; Progressive 2. 
Noes 50 
New Zealand National 27; New Zealand First 13; ACT New Zealand 8; Maori Party 1; Independent: Awatere Huata. 
Clause 2 as amended agreed to.
Power Simon: Foreshore and Seabed Bill — In Committee Speaker Recalled In Committee 
Power Simon: Foreshore and Seabed Bill — In Committee Speaker Recalled In Committee 
[Volume:621;Page:17024] 
Simon Power 
: I raise a point of order Madam Chairperson. We find ourselves in a difficult position at this point for this reason: during the course of Mr Brownlee’s point of order—and I am not disputing your ruling—prior to you asking the member to resume his seat Mr Brownlee was met with a number of comments from New Zealand First members. You have ruled on several occasions since the Committee stage commenced that points of order are to be heard in silence. When Mr Brownlee was interjected upon during his point of order he retaliated in sort. He has now been asked to leave the Chamber. We do not dispute that ruling but we now find ourselves in difficulty as to what members who take points of order are to do in future if they are interjected upon by other members of Parliament contrary to your initial ruling. I seek your advice on that matter. 
Dail Jones 
: Madam Chairperson I have raised this issue before and it is appropriate to this case. The last time the Rt Hon Winston Peters was speaking just before 1 o’clock he was interrupted five times by National and ACT members. This time he got up to take a call and had barely started when he was interjected upon by a member Nick Smith who was at the Table. He had barely continued his speech when Gerry Brownlee interrupted him.  
Madam Chairperson Gerry Brownlee was on at least his fourth card from you today when he was finally sent out. He should not be allowed to vote on this legislation if this sort of thing continues. I ask you to get the National Party under control. They are leaderless in this House they are clearly a rabble and they should not be allowed to continue in this way. That is why we have disorder—[ 
Interruption 
] The member Ken Shirley is interjecting on me as I am speaking on a point of order.
Catchpole Brent: Questions for Oral Answer — Questions to Ministers 
Catchpole Brent: Questions for Oral Answer — Questions to Ministers 
[Volume:618;Page:14390] 
12.  
BRENT CATCHPOLE (NZ First) 
 to the  
Minister of Housing 
: Is he satisfied with the current State housing allocation system used by Housing New Zealand Corporation; if so why? 
Hon STEVE MAHAREY (Minister of Housing) 
: 
 Yes. It is a good policy designed and delivered by an innovative Government committed to repairing the damage done to State housing by the last National-led Government. 
Brent Catchpole 
: Is the Minister concerned about reports from the Auckland City Council requesting a review of housing allocation after residents complained that too many high-needs families are being placed in the many State houses in their area; and is he concerned that his policy could create ghettos around New Zealand? 
Hon STEVE MAHAREY 
: I am always concerned when I hear people raise issues. Housing New Zealand has already been in touch with that city council and they are talking through those issues. 
Lynne Pillay 
: What progress has the Government made in restoring social housing? 
Hon STEVE MAHAREY 
: Since December 1999 the Labour-led Government has introduced income-related rents for more than 56000 families—that is 168000 people; increased the State and community stock by 4516 houses with another 3000 homes slated to be added over the next 3 years; invested millions of dollars in modernisation and healthier housing; put the Rural Housing Programme in place to address substandard housing and over this year the programme provides $180 million to improve housing; supported homeownership; and established a $63 million housing innovation fund. I know Mr Speaker that you want me to sit down but there is much more good news so I will come back again if people want to hear that. 
Dr Wayne Mapp 
: In light of all those facts can the Minister explain why there are 12317 people on the Housing New Zealand waiting list and why there are a further 1055 people scheduled for a needs assessment so that they can actually get on to the waiting list? 
Hon STEVE MAHAREY 
: The main reason is that the National Party sold 13000 houses and Labour is busy making up that particular deficit. [ 
Interruption 
] I would be ashamed if I were a National member and no doubt that is why they are calling out. 
Brent Catchpole 
: Can the Minister demonstrate how the 10565 State housing tenants for whom he could not give me their ethnicity in a written answer are in greater need than the 12205 tenants on Housing New Zealand’s waiting list as of 31 January 2004? 
Hon STEVE MAHAREY 
: Ethnicity is not a qualification for need in terms of getting into the social allocation housing process. What we want to do is to make sure that we are getting people who are in serious housing situations and that they move through the four tiers of that social allocation housing system. We are now making major inroads into the people who are worse off. That is how they get into the system. That is how we house people. For the benefit of Dr Smith that is what social housing is.
Parker David: Questions for Oral Answer — Questions to Ministers 
Parker David: Questions for Oral Answer — Questions to Ministers 
[Volume:618;Page:13771] 
10.  
DAVID PARKER (Labour—Otago) 
 to the  
Minister for the Environment 
: What recent initiatives has the Government taken to protect the environment from the growing problem of discarded used tyres? 
Hon MARIAN HOBBS (Minister for the Environment) 
: 
 New Zealanders get rid of 3 million to 4 million tyres a year. Often they end up in our rivers and gullies or in dangerous heaps in the countryside. The Motor Trade Association and I this morning launched Tyre Track to reduce the risk of old tyres being dumped illegally. This is a great example of the Government working in partnership with industry to keep our environment clean—no legislation no taxes and the problem on the way to being retired! 
David Parker 
: How is the Government helping to ensure that more old tyres are reused or recycled instead of just ending up in the landfill? 
Hon MARIAN HOBBS 
: A number of businesses are already turning old tyres into anything from playground mats to erosion control walls. Matta Products Ltd in Otaki is an excellent example. The Ministry for the Environment is working with recyclers and companies large and small to ensure a steady stream of tyres are reused or recycled instead of just being landfills. 
Mike Ward 
: What is the Minister proposing to address the issue of tyres being imported either new or used on cars or off cars and why has she opted for a voluntary scheme when dealers were asking for a mandatory scheme? 
Hon MARIAN HOBBS 
: Over half a million used tyres are imported into New Zealand annually and many more come in on used vehicles. It is possible that these imports account for up to half our waste stream. Tyre Track will help to provide us with some statistics about this issue that can be used to determine a way forward with industry. It may be that they can all be reused.
Vote: Prisoners’ and Victims’ Claims Bill — In Committee Procedure Third Reading 
Vote: Prisoners’ and Victims’ Claims Bill — In Committee Procedure Third Reading 
[Volume:626;Page:20980] 
A party vote was called for on the question  
That the amendment be agreed to. 
Ayes 55 
New Zealand National 27; New Zealand First 13; ACT New Zealand 7; United Future 8. 
Noes 62 
New Zealand Labour 51; Green Party 9; Progressive 2. 
Amendment not agreed to. 
The question was put that the following amendment in the name of Marc Alexander to clause 16(1) be agreed to: 
to omit paragraph (a) and substitute the following paragraph: 
(a)in satisfaction of an assumed right of the compensation by either victim or authorised agent of the victim.
Vote: Crown Minerals Amendment Bill — Instruction to CommitteeCWH In Committee 
Vote: Crown Minerals Amendment Bill — Instruction to CommitteeCWH In Committee 
[Volume:610;Page:7628] 
A party vote was called for on the question  
That clause 2 be agreed to. 
Ayes 61 
Labour 52; Green Party 9. 
Noes 55 
New Zealand National 27; New Zealand First 13; ACT New Zealand 7; United Future 8. 
Clause 2 agreed to.
Hunt Jonathan: Visitors — United Kingdom—Speaker of the House of Commons Indonesia—Budget Committee Members 
Hunt Jonathan: Visitors — United Kingdom—Speaker of the House of Commons Indonesia—Budget Committee Members 
[Volume:619;Page:14593] 
Mr SPEAKER 
: I have very great pleasure in informing members that the Rt Hon Michael Martin Speaker of the House of Commons of the United Kingdom is within the precincts of this Chamber. I am sure that members would wish that he be welcomed and accorded a seat on the left of the Chair. 
The Rt Hon Michael Martin accompanied by the Deputy Speaker entered the Chamber and took a seat on the left of the Chair.
Vote: Maori Fisheries Bill — In Committee 
Vote: Maori Fisheries Bill — In Committee 
[Volume:620;Page:15604] 
A party vote was called for on the question  
That the amendment be agreed to. 
Ayes 48 
New Zealand National 27; New Zealand First 12; Green Party 9. 
Noes 69 
New Zealand Labour 51; ACT New Zealand 8; United Future 8; Progressive 2. 
Amendment not agreed to. 
The question was put that the amendment set out on Supplementary Order Paper 253 in the name of Phil Heatley to clause 24 be agreed to.
Peters Winston: Questions for Oral Answer — Questions to Ministers 
Peters Winston: Questions for Oral Answer — Questions to Ministers 
[Volume:607;Page:4278] 
Rt Hon WINSTON PETERS (Leader—NZ First) 
: 
 I raise a point of order Mr Speaker. With the greatest of respect I want to contest what you have just said. You are now saying that you are in charge of discipline where the Labour Party is concerned. That is not the case. If that member wishes to rise and jeopardise the rest of question time by being undisciplined that nevertheless is his entitlement. 
Mr SPEAKER 
: I ask the member to be seated. I will not have this way of dealing with questions. There is a standard way of dealing with questions which I have adopted and discussed with each whip of each party. The member knows that I have discussed it with his whip and with the Labour whips. A pattern was established and that is the way the pattern remains. 
Rt Hon WINSTON PETERS 
: The fact remains that if an arrangement has been arrived at in my view it is unofficial it is not the way Parliament conducts democracy in Western society anyway and if that member seeks to raise a call then he is entitled to it. He jeopardises his whole party arrangement; but it is not something that should be controlled by you but rather by the party itself. That is what happened here. 
Mr SPEAKER 
: Mr Gallagher is perfectly competent to raise a point of order about his non-call if he wishes. It is not for other members to intervene in this way.
Laban Luamanuvao Winnie: Questions for Oral Answer — Questions to Ministers 
Laban Luamanuvao Winnie: Questions for Oral Answer — Questions to Ministers 
[Volume:612;Page:9046] 
8.  
LUAMANUVAO WINNIE LABAN (NZ Labour—Mana) 
 to the  
Minister of Foreign Affairs and Trade 
: What threat does HIV/AIDS pose in the Pacific region and what steps are being taken to respond to that threat? 
Hon PHIL GOFF (Minister of Foreign Affairs and Trade) 
: 
 Currently there are some 8000 known HIV cases in the Pacific region. Papua New Guinea already is experiencing a generalised HIV epidemic. Several other Pacific Island nations have high and increasing infection rates. Over the past year there has been a significant increase in emphasis on HIV prevention and treatment efforts in the region including by New Zealand and we are now through the secretariat for the Pacific community developing a regional strategy. Individually New Zealand last year invested $1.4 million into HIV/AIDS prevention initiatives in the Pacific and a further $2.25 million into global efforts to combat the disease. 
Luamanuvao Winnie Laban 
: What has New Zealand done to address this impending crisis in the region? 
Hon PHIL GOFF 
: Within the context of the funding that I have just mentioned and other funding besides the New Zealand aid organisation funds a number of important initiatives in the region. These include efforts to promote commitment to HIV/AIDS by Pacific Governments and to coordinate externally funded HIV/AIDS projects in the region. We have supported the establishment of a Pacific Island AIDS Foundation and we work with agencies such as the AIDS Task Force of Fiji and Fiji Red Cross. New Zealand has also supported key efforts to address key risk factors for HIV transmission and the needs of young people to be better educated about sexual health issues.
Donald Rod: Education (School Boards of Trustees Single Transferable Vote Option) Amendment Bill — First Reading 
Donald Rod: Education (School Boards of Trustees Single Transferable Vote Option) Amendment Bill — First Reading 
[Volume:620;Page:15496] 
ROD DONALD (Co-Leader—Green) 
: 
 I seek leave to table a sample of results from the 2004 school board elections that highlight the levels of wasted votes and effective votes. 
Document by leave laid on the Table of the House. 
Sitting suspended from 5.56 p.m. to 7.30 p.m.
Brownlee Gerry: Questions for Oral Answer — Questions to Ministers 
Brownlee Gerry: Questions for Oral Answer — Questions to Ministers 
[Volume:617;Page:12542] 
3.  
GERRY BROWNLEE (Deputy Leader—National) 
 to the  
Prime Minister 
: Did she strip Tariana Turia of her ministerial portfolios as reported by some news sources or did Tariana Turia resign her ministerial portfolios herself as reported by other news sources? 
Rt Hon HELEN CLARK (Prime Minister) 
: 
 Yes I did. I advised the Administrator of the Government to dismiss Tariana Turia on Friday 30 April. 
Gerry Brownlee 
: Noting the Prime Minister’s precipitate actions in this case why does the Government not show the strength of its conviction over its seabed and foreshore proposals that have caused the resignation of Tariana Turia from the Labour Party and stand a candidate in the Te Tai Hauauru by-election? 
Rt Hon HELEN CLARK 
: The Government does not believe that a by-election is necessary as a number of pathways forward for Mrs Turia were discussed. I might say that it is a matter of regret for me personally that she has chosen to go because I have worked closely with her for many years. However I accept that she has decided to take a different path. 
Gerry Brownlee 
: Does the Prime Minister stand by her 1999 comments championing electoral integrity legislation that any member of Parliament who resigned from a party during a parliamentary term should do the honourable thing and seek a fresh mandate from his or her electorate; if so why will she not stand a candidate in the Te Tai Hauauru by-election to seek a fresh mandate for her Government’s position on the seabed and foreshore issue? 
Rt Hon HELEN CLARK 
: The two issues are obviously quite different. Mrs Turia is following through on the spirit of the Act and has announced that she intends to resign from Parliament. That is not a statement that the Government needs to respond to in any particular way at all. 
Hon Richard Prebble 
: Has the Prime Minister seen the article in the  
Sunday Star-Times 
 of 2 May where Mrs Turia says that the timing of her resignation was triggered by her humiliation because she had followed some advice from the Prime Minister: “why don’t you duck down on the back seat” of the prime ministerial car; if so does the Prime Minister now regret having humiliated her Minister with that advice? 
Rt Hon HELEN CLARK 
: At no point have I or anyone in the Government set out to humiliate Mrs Turia. Mrs Turia—like me—is a mature woman who must take responsibility for her own actions. 
Gerry Brownlee 
: If the Prime Minister is now saying that Mrs Turia is doing the honourable thing why did she describe her actions as a sideshow and a stunt and a waste of time and money on a pointless exercise and why is she frightened of testing her party’s policies in this by-election? 
Rt Hon HELEN CLARK 
: Because a number of pathways were put forward that would have enabled Mrs Turia to continue as a member of the Labour Party; none of those were chosen.
Baldock Larry: Third Readings 
Baldock Larry: Third Readings 
[Volume:618;Page:14138] 
LARRY BALDOCK (United Future) 
: 
 This is just a brief call on behalf of United Future on the third reading of this legislation. We do not intend to repeat things that have been said already since they appear in  
Hansard  
in sequence when we handle legislation like this. But I will just mention that it was pleasing during the Committee stage of the bill to vote for the casting vote to be fully restored to councils. 
I want to make a couple of comments regarding the National member Phil Heatley’s concerns about microchipping. He was concerned earlier that he would have to train his son to do all those things with his new puppy. I suggest that in 2 years’ time when microchipping becomes a requirement Mr Heatley’s little boy will probably be an expert on technology and will be training his father. He will be wondering why his father did not support the very sensible approach of inserting microchips in dogs across the country so that we can keep track on them and assist dog control officers in making sure that dogs are registered and appropriately taken care of by their owners. In 2 more years’ time I believe technology will assist in many many areas of society so microchipping is a sensible approach. United Future is willing to support the national database which will be of assistance to councils as well. 
I want to thank the officials for their assistance throughout the process with regard to this legislation and it is now with pleasure that we can commend this legislation to local government. I also commend local government across the country for the very good work it does in administrating many many issues in our local communities. Councils can now give their best attention to those issues because of the amendments we have provided for in this legislation.
Dyson Ruth: Electoral (Vacancies) Amendment Bill — First Reading Second Reading Instruction to CommitteeCWH In Committee Third Reading 
Dyson Ruth: Electoral (Vacancies) Amendment Bill — First Reading Second Reading Instruction to CommitteeCWH In Committee Third Reading 
[Volume:610;Page:7729] 
Hon RUTH DYSON (Minister for ACC) 
: 
 That is the first time I have been disappointed in a contribution from John Carter. It does neither him nor his party any credit to have insinuations like that made in what should be a very serious debate. It was not clear from his contribution that the purpose of this bill—and other members should know this—is to ensure that no member of the current Parliament loses his or her seat merely because he or she swears allegiance to or obtains the citizenship of another country. The bill has been introduced on the advice and recommendation of a majority of the Privileges Committee and I urge its speedy progress through the House.
Hunt Jonathan: Questions for Oral Answer — Questions to Ministers 
Hunt Jonathan: Questions for Oral Answer — Questions to Ministers 
[Volume:619;Page:14881] 
Mr SPEAKER 
: I do not need any further assistance on this. I thank the Hon Richard Prebble because I could not have put it better myself. The Minister did not refuse to answer; his answer was that he did not intend to comment. That is his judgment. As far as I am concerned Ministers have been batting away questions ever since I came here in 1967—and that is 38½ years. I am just past the midpoint in my career here! But I say to the member that he can ask the Standing Orders Committee to have a look at it and if it has a look at it and comes to an agreement the Standing Orders can be changed.
Chadwick Steve: Resource Management (Aquaculture Moratorium Extension) Amendment Bill — First Reading 
Chadwick Steve: Resource Management (Aquaculture Moratorium Extension) Amendment Bill — First Reading 
[Volume:614;Page:10624] 
STEVE CHADWICK (Labour—Rotorua) 
: 
 I rise in support of this bill and after the previous speaker with an eminently sensible approach to the Resource Management (Aquaculture Moratorium Extension) Amendment Bill. This is obviously a reality that this Government is prepared to face and I support this bill.
Yates Dianne: Questions for Oral Answer — Questions to Ministers 
Yates Dianne: Questions for Oral Answer — Questions to Ministers 
[Volume:617;Page:12715] 
10.  
DIANNE YATES (Labour—Hamilton East) 
 to the  
Minister of State Services 
: What progress is the Government making towards implementing the State Sector Retirement Savings Scheme? 
Hon Dr MICHAEL CULLEN (Leader of the House) 
 on behalf of the 
 Minister of State Services 
: The new State Sector Retirement Savings Scheme is up and running. The Government agencies and the Public Service Association have reported a high level of interest in the new scheme from staff. Under the scheme contributions of up to 100000 State sector workers will be matched up to a maximum of 1.5 percent of gross base salary in the first year and up to 3 percent for the second year. 
Dianne Yates 
: When was the last time that State sector employees were able to join a Government-subsidised retirement savings scheme? 
Hon Dr MICHAEL CULLEN 
: The Government Superannuation Fund was closed to new members in 1992. This is the first superannuation initiative across Government for 11 years and it will repair some of the damage done to the public service in the 1990s. 
John Key 
: Why has the Minister not answered my written question submitted well over 2 weeks ago asking why the Global Retirement Trust has withdrawn from the scheme and if the answer to my written question is that the Global Retirement Trust cannot compete with other providers—as we suspect is the case—why was it awarded the primary teachers retirement scheme without it going out to tender? 
Hon Dr MICHAEL CULLEN 
: Certainly the Global Retirement Trust withdrew for commercial reasons. I cannot give an answer to the second part of the question as I do not have the information on that in front of me. 
John Key 
: I seek leave to table question for written answer No. 5424 requesting information on the Global Retirement Trust. 
Mr SPEAKER 
: Leave is sought to table that. Is there any objection? There is.
Mapp Wayne: Points of Order — Presentation of Report of Privileges Committee 
Mapp Wayne: Points of Order — Presentation of Report of Privileges Committee 
[Volume:610;Page:7634] 
Dr WAYNE MAPP (NZ National—North Shore) 
: 
 I raise a point of order Mr Speaker. You referred to Standing Order 63 which sets out an order for general business. I note Standing Order 63(1)(6) states “Consideration of reports of the Privileges Committee.” and Standing Order 63(2) goes on to state “General business is held at 2 p.m. on each sitting day.” But this report was tabled earlier than 2 p.m. So it seems to me that going by Standing Order 63 you are required to deal with it at 2 p.m. today. 
Mr SPEAKER 
: Well the member does not know the Standing Orders. It is put down on the Order Paper for the following sitting day.
Peters Winston: Points of Order — Replies to Written Questions—Adequacy 
Peters Winston: Points of Order — Replies to Written Questions—Adequacy 
[Volume:620;Page:15866] 
Rt Hon WINSTON PETERS (Leader—NZ First) 
: 
 Mr Speaker in addition to your writing or talking to a Minister about this problem has it ever occurred to you as Speaker that it would be appropriate to advise the Prime Minister of the problems that we are confronting here? Because frankly if a Minister cannot do his or her job that Minister should be fired. One of the regulating mechanisms that operates in any decent democracy is that if a Minister is seen to be found wanting and if that Minister is found wanting in this House then usually that Minister goes—excepting in our Parliament in 2004 they stay here. 
Mr SPEAKER 
: All I can say to the member is that when I feel the need to approach the leader of the Government on an issue of course I will do so because it may be appropriate to do so. It is not always the case but I use my judgment in this matter. But I can assure members that whenever anyone has written to me or come to see me I have endeavoured to act on it immediately.
Shirley Ken: Maori Television Service Bill — Instruction to Committee In Committee Speaker Recalled 
Shirley Ken: Maori Television Service Bill — Instruction to Committee In Committee Speaker Recalled 
[Volume:607;Page:5008] 
Hon KEN SHIRLEY (Deputy Leader—ACT NZ) 
: 
 I seek of the House for Mr Hide to resume his seat in the House of Representatives at 8.30. 
The ASSISTANT SPEAKER (Hon Clem Simich) 
: Leave has been sought. Is there any objection to that course of action? There is objection. I now intend to place the House back into Committee.
Cullen Michael: Business Statement 
Cullen Michael: Business Statement 
[Volume:619;Page:14661] 
Hon Dr MICHAEL CULLEN (Leader of the House) 
: 
 Next week in the House priority will be given to the completion of the remaining stages of the Building Bill the Education (Export Education Levy) Amendment Bill and the Electricity and Gas Industries Bill.
Vote: Building Bill — In Committee Procedure 
Vote: Building Bill — In Committee Procedure 
[Volume:619;Page:14874] 
A party vote was called for on the question  
That the report be adopted. 
Ayes 92 
New Zealand Labour 51; New Zealand First 13; Green Party 9; ACT New Zealand 8; United Future 8; Progressive 2; Independent: Awatere Huata. 
Noes 28 
New Zealand National 27; Maori Party 1. 
Report adopted.
Scott Lynda: Questions for Oral Answer — Questions to Ministers 
Scott Lynda: Questions for Oral Answer — Questions to Ministers 
[Volume:614;Page:10664] 
11.  
Dr LYNDA SCOTT (National—Kaikoura) 
 to the  
Minister of Health 
: Will she now take action and order an inquiry to discover why Southern Cross Norfolk Hospital and Tauranga Hospital have suddenly banned Mr Ian Breeze from surgery but seemed unable to do so previously; if not why not? 
Hon DAMIEN O'CONNOR (Associate Minister of Health) 
 on behalf of the 
 Minister of Health 
: No. The Minister has been advised by the Medical Council and the Health and Disability Commissioner that these matters are being dealt with appropriately. 
Dr Lynda Scott 
: Did Tauranga Hospital know of any problems Mr Breeze was having at the Norfolk Community Hospital and previously at the Southern Cross hospital and vice versa; if not why are we are not having an inquiry to investigate how to solve the systemic failure of communication that prevented the whole picture from being seen? 
Hon DAMIEN O'CONNOR 
: My understanding is that as soon as Tauranga Hospital was notified of the concerns it took action. The Government has moved to improve the system. The passage of the Health Practitioners Competence Assurance Act has meant that anyone or any organisation with complaints can take them to one place—that is the Health and Disability Commissioner. 
Dr Lynda Scott 
: Was the failure of Tauranga Hospital to suspend Mr Breeze from practice influenced in any way by not what it knew of his error rate but by the case of Dunedin surgeon Robert Phipps whom HealthCare Otago sacked after a review of competency costing Otago hundreds of thousands of dollars; if the Minister does not know the answer to this question why are we not having an inquiry to find out? 
Hon DAMIEN O'CONNOR 
: I am not aware of the details around that but if the member would like to write a question down I am sure we will get details back to her.
Cunliffe David: Ngati Tuwharetoa (Bay of Plenty) Claims Settlement Bill — Instruction to Committee In Committee 
Cunliffe David: Ngati Tuwharetoa (Bay of Plenty) Claims Settlement Bill — Instruction to Committee In Committee 
[Volume:625;Page:20210] 
Hon DAVID CUNLIFFE (Minister of Communications) 
: 
 I move  
That the question be now put 
.
Simich Clem: Ngati Awa Claims Settlement Bill — In Committee Speaker Recalled In Committee Speaker Recalled In Committee 
Simich Clem: Ngati Awa Claims Settlement Bill — In Committee Speaker Recalled In Committee Speaker Recalled In Committee 
[Volume:623;Page:18732] 
The CHAIRPERSON (Hon Clem Simich) 
: I think we need to move on. 
Stephen Franks 
: Mr Chairman we will have to come back to it if we do not clear it up now. 
The CHAIRPERSON (Hon Clem Simich) 
: All right. I will just say on the last matter that the amendment of the Hon Margaret Wilson and the version included in Mr Brownlee’s speech were what were interpreted by Mr Tamihere. We could run around in circles— 
Gerry Brownlee 
: We will have to. 
The CHAIRPERSON (Hon Clem Simich) 
: No we will not. My understanding of what was said is pretty clear.
Vote: Imports and Exports (Restrictions) Amendment Bill — In Committee 
Vote: Imports and Exports (Restrictions) Amendment Bill — In Committee 
[Volume:609;Page:6968] 
A party vote was called for on the question That the question be now put. 
Ayes 68 
Labour 52; Green Party 8; United Future 8. 
Noes 47 
New Zealand National 27; New Zealand First 13; ACT New Zealand 7. 
Motion agreed to. 
The question was put that the following amendment in the name of Judith Collins to clause 6 be agreed to: 
to amend subclause (1) by omitting paragraph (e) from the definition of  
international obligation 
.
Benson-Pope David: New Organisms and Other Matters Bill — In Committee 
Benson-Pope David: New Organisms and Other Matters Bill — In Committee 
[Volume:611;Page:8867] 
DAVID BENSON-POPE (Senior Whip—NZ Labour) 
: 
 I move  
That the question be now put 
.
Vote: Smoke-free Environments Amendment Bill — Procedure Referral to Health Committee In Committee Speaker Recalled In Committee Speaker Recalled  Speaker Recalled In Committee Procedure 
Vote: Smoke-free Environments Amendment Bill — Procedure Referral to Health Committee In Committee Speaker Recalled In Committee Speaker Recalled  Speaker Recalled In Committee Procedure 
[Volume:613;Page:9978] 
A party vote was called for on the question  
That the amendment be agreed to. 
Ayes 53 
New Zealand National 24; New Zealand First 12; ACT New Zealand 8; United Future 8; Independent: Awatere Huata. 
Noes 67 
New Zealand Labour 52; New Zealand National 3; New Zealand First 1; Green Party 9; Progressive 2. 
Amendment not agreed to. 
The question was put that the amendments set out on Supplementary Order Paper 117 in the name of the Hon Peter Dunne to clause 6C be agreed to.
Field Taito Phillip: Families Commission Bill — Instruction to CommitteeCWH In Committee Procedure 
Field Taito Phillip: Families Commission Bill — Instruction to CommitteeCWH In Committee Procedure 
[Volume:614;Page:10291] 
Hon TAITO PHILLIP FIELD (Minister of State) 
: 
 I move  
That the question be now put 
.
Dunne Peter: Speaker’s Rulings — Questions for Oral Answer—Ministers' Answers Maori Language—Interpretation Points of Order—Minister’s Answers 
Dunne Peter: Speaker’s Rulings — Questions for Oral Answer—Ministers' Answers Maori Language—Interpretation Points of Order—Minister’s Answers 
[Volume:615;Page:11496] 
Hon PETER DUNNE (Leader—United Future) 
: 
 I raise a point of order Mr Speaker. This is a quick issue that arises from your ruling on the point of order I raised with you. I want to seek some clarification. I am grateful for your ruling but if I look at Speaker’s ruling 145/7 in your name I see that it states: “Any answer must address the question asked. The answer must be a direct response;” etc. and then I contrast that with Speaker’s ruling 144/3: “It is not obligatory on a Minister to answer a question.” and Speaker’s ruling 144/4: “The Speaker cannot force a Minister to give an answer to a question …”. I want to be clear in my mind that you are saying that in addressing a question a Minister has to give a response—but you as Speaker have no responsibility for the quality of that response—and the response somehow has to address the question itself despite the fact that those other rulings say there is no obligation on a Minister to actually answer the question. I think that that is at the heart of a lot of the current disputes. 
Mr SPEAKER 
: I thank the member because it is a useful point of order. Those two instances I am advised were when the Minister said: “No I will not answer.” It was just: “No I will not answer.” and that was way back in 1968 and 1972 I think. The ruling I gave refers to the fact that a Minister must address the question. The answer might not be satisfactory to the person who asked the question but that answer has to be given.
Robertson H V Ross: Smoke-free Environments Amendment Bill — Procedure Referral to Health Committee In Committee Speaker Recalled In Committee Speaker Recalled  Speaker Recalled In Committee Procedure 
Robertson H V Ross: Smoke-free Environments Amendment Bill — Procedure Referral to Health Committee In Committee Speaker Recalled In Committee Speaker Recalled  Speaker Recalled In Committee Procedure 
[Volume:613;Page:10004] 
The CHAIRPERSON (H V Ross Robertson) 
: It had better be something different because I have already ruled. 
Hon PETER DUNNE 
: Yes it is a completely fresh point of order Mr Chairperson. I submit that the entire procedure from the time of the acceptance by you of the closure motion is out of order. I cite as my authority Speaker’s ruling 53/6 from 1931 and I want to quote it to you with particular reference to Mr Hughes: “The closure must be moved by a member rising in the member’s place pursuant to the Standing Orders.” Mr Hughes was not sitting in his place at the time that he moved the closure motion. He was therefore completely contrary to that Speaker’s ruling. It should not have been accepted. The procedure from that point on is entirely out of order and the Committee should have lifted.
Business Statement 
Business Statement 
[Volume:623;Page:18863] 
Wednesday 2 March 2005 
Mr Speaker 
 took the Chair at 2 p.m. 
Prayers 
. 
Business Statement 
Hon Dr MICHAEL CULLEN (Leader of the House) 
: 
 Given the events that will happen tomorrow it might be advisable if I give the business statement today. Next week in the House priority will be given to the remaining stages of the Animal Products (Dairy Products and Other Matters) Bill the Relationships (Statutory References) Bill the second reading of the Lawyers and Conveyancers Bill and any first readings that are on the Order Paper.
Hughes Darren: Civil Union Bill — In Committee Procedure 
Hughes Darren: Civil Union Bill — In Committee Procedure 
[Volume:622;Page:17596] 
DARREN HUGHES (Junior Whip—Labour) 
: 
 I raise a point of order Mr Chairperson. I am sorry to interrupt the speaker before he has had a chance to start. The Committee spent the best part of 4 hours this afternoon voting on amendments moved by Richard Worth. I am afraid that my records are not quite up to date. Can you confirm Mr Chairman that this is the first call that Mr Worth has taken in the Committee stage of the Civil Union Bill? I think it is.
Vote: Employment Relations Law Reform Bill — In Committee 
Vote: Employment Relations Law Reform Bill — In Committee 
[Volume:620;Page:16184] 
A party vote was called for on the question  
That schedule 2 be agreed to. 
Ayes 62 
New Zealand Labour 51; Green Party 8; Progressive 2; Maori Party 1. 
Noes 56 
New Zealand National 27; New Zealand First 13; ACT New Zealand 7; United Future 8; Independent: Awatere Huata. 
Schedule 2 agreed to.
Vote: Charities Bill — Second Reading Instruction to Committee In Committee Third Reading 
Vote: Charities Bill — Second Reading Instruction to Committee In Committee Third Reading 
[Volume:625;Page:19955] 
A party vote was called for on the question  
That the motion be agreed to. 
Ayes 61 
New Zealand Labour 51; United Future 8; Progressive 2. 
Noes 57 
New Zealand National 27; New Zealand First 13; ACT New Zealand 7; Green Party 9; Maori Party 1. 
Motion agreed to.
Simich Clem: Maori Fisheries Bill — In Committee 
Simich Clem: Maori Fisheries Bill — In Committee 
[Volume:620;Page:15650] 
The CHAIRPERSON (Hon Clem Simich) 
: I am of the view that this question was taken as one debate and we should at least vote on clause 2.
Vote: Human Assisted Reproductive Technology Bill — In Committee Procedure 
Vote: Human Assisted Reproductive Technology Bill — In Committee Procedure 
[Volume:621;Page:16355] 
A party vote was called for on the question  
That the amendment as amended be agreed to. 
Ayes 97 
New Zealand Labour 51; New Zealand National 20; New Zealand First 13; Green Party 9; United Future 2; Progressive 2. 
Noes 19 
New Zealand National 4; ACT New Zealand 8; United Future 6; Maori Party 1. 
Amendment as amended agreed to. 
The question was put that the following amendment in the name of Dr Paul Hutchison to clause 65 be agreed to: 
to add the following new paragraph to clause 65(1): 
(j)in order to exercise the powers of seizure the authorised person must first obtain the authority of a District Court Judge or Court Registrar.
Vote: Ngati Awa Claims Settlement Bill — In Committee Procedure 
Vote: Ngati Awa Claims Settlement Bill — In Committee Procedure 
[Volume:623;Page:18826] 
A party vote was called for on the question  
That the amendment be agreed to. 
Ayes 47 
New Zealand National 27; New Zealand First 13; ACT New Zealand 7. 
Noes 71 
New Zealand Labour 51; Green Party 9; United Future 8; Progressive 2; Maori Party 1. 
Amendment not agreed to. 
The question was put that the amendment set out on Supplementary Order Paper 329 in the name of the Hon Mark Burton to Part 2 be agreed to. 
Amendment agreed to.
Copeland Gordon: Obituaries — Ronald Reagan—Former United States President  
Copeland Gordon: Obituaries — Ronald Reagan—Former United States President  
[Volume:618;Page:13542] 
GORDON COPELAND (United Future) 
: 
 Briefly on behalf of United Future I also would like to endorse the motion to mark the passing of that great President and great world leader the late Ronald Reagan. Others have already spoken about the enormous contribution that he made to the ending of the cold war. All of us who were alive at the time will always treasure as a great memory the moment when for example the Berlin Wall came down and all of the celebration that flowed from that. Rodney Hide also mentioned President Reagan’s great sense of optimism and I think that is one of the memories I will have of him. He was very much a can-do person who saw the problems and the obstacles but also saw possibilities towards solution and reconciliation. We mark the passing of a great President. 
Motion agreed to.
Beyer Georgina: Biosecurity Amendment Bill — Second Reading Instruction to Committee In Committee Third Reading 
Beyer Georgina: Biosecurity Amendment Bill — Second Reading Instruction to Committee In Committee Third Reading 
[Volume:609;Page:7043] 
GEORGINA BEYER (NZ Labour—Wairarapa) 
: It is a privilege to speak in the second reading of this bill. When reading through the report of the Primary Production Committee which addressed this bill on getting to the committee membership the name of a member of that committee—Gavan Herlihy—leapt out at me. It is a name that this House has not heard for some time. As I recall Gavan Herlihy was a very good member. Unfortunately he is the only member from that committee who is no longer in the Parliament but that matters not.