edithatogo/nz-hansard-corpus huggingface dataset:
Tremain Chris: Private Security Personnel and Private Investigators Bill — In Committee 
Tremain Chris: Private Security Personnel and Private Investigators Bill — In Committee 
[Volume:666;Page:13848] 
CHRIS TREMAIN (Senior Whip—National) 
: 
 I seek leave for the Committee stage of the Private Security Personnel and Private Investigators Bill to be taken as one debate with multiple calls. 
The CHAIRPERSON (Hon Rick Barker) 
: Are members clear on the leave being sought? Is there any objection? There being none the Committee stage of the Private Security Personnel and Private Investigators Bill will be taken as a single debate. I want some clarity from the Committee as to whether it wants a single question to be put at the end of the debate or the parts to be put separately. The debate is to be taken as a single question—[ 
Interruption 
] Yes I got that bit but I want clarity from the Committee as to whether it wants a single question at the end or each part to be put separately. 
Hon Darren Hughes 
: Each part. 
The CHAIRPERSON (Hon Rick Barker) 
: OK. Is the Committee clear on that? It is a single debate and at the end each part will be taken as a separate vote. We are agreed on that.
Shanks Katrina: Questions for Oral Answer — Questions to Ministers 
Shanks Katrina: Questions for Oral Answer — Questions to Ministers 
[Volume:666;Page:13847] 
12. 
KATRINA SHANKS (National) 
 to the  
Minister of Housing 
: How is the Department of Building and Housing working to keep landlords and tenants informed of their rights and responsibilities following the Christchurch earthquake? 
Hon PHIL HEATLEY (Minister of Housing) 
: 
 Thirty percent of Christchurch’s population lives in rental accommodation and since the earthquake on Saturday the Department of Building and Housing contact centre has dealt with 300 calls from landlords and tenants seeking information about their rights and obligations in respect of their rental properties. Questions mainly relate to matters of rent when properties are damaged ability to exit fixed-term tenancies and processes for getting repairs completed. The department is ensuring that there are no unnecessary barriers to tenants receiving bond refunds once tenancies have ended and when required the department is proactively contacting landlords to ensure the speedy release of bonds. Canterbury refunds are being prioritised and paid out ahead of other refunds. Christchurch staff are providing on-the-ground information and advice to landlords and tenants through the five emergency contact centres as well as through the Linwood Community Link centre. Staff from other areas are assisting in providing phone-based mediation services to resolve any disputes and the Department of Building and Housing has also advised local MPs of landlord and tenant rights and obligations plus key landlord and tenant organisations. It is also targeting advice and information to those affected and coordinating with other agencies to deliver advice. 
Katrina Shanks 
: What is the Housing New Zealand Corporation doing to assist those who are currently homeless? 
Hon PHIL HEATLEY 
: The corporation has been identifying emergency accommodation for State-home tenants homeowners and private renters whose houses are deemed unsafe. Accommodation has been found in hotels motels camping grounds and private residences. It is also looking at ensuring that any State houses that are being upgraded and are currently vacant are done up as soon as possible so that those who qualify for State housing can move into them. It is great to see that the officials are now at a point where they can actively explore options on how we can work with the private and community sectors in the wider Canterbury and surrounding regions to identify longer-term housing options for people who are without a home to live in.
Blue Jackie: Questions for Oral Answer — Questions to Ministers 
Blue Jackie: Questions for Oral Answer — Questions to Ministers 
[Volume:666;Page:13845] 
10. 
Dr JACKIE BLUE (National) 
 to the  
Minister of Transport 
: What updates has he received on transport in and around Canterbury following the earthquake and numerous aftershocks? 
Hon NATHAN GUY (Associate Minister of Transport) 
 on behalf of the  
Minister of Transport 
: This morning the Minister visited Lyttelton Port of Christchurch and the port is damaged but operational. The fuel and coal terminal is OK. That is very important for the city to keep supplies coming in. A small number of points on the State highway network continue to be closed. Repairs are currently progressing well on the State Highway 1 Chaney’s Road on-ramp and it could be open to traffic by the end of the week. Repairs on the other points are under way and most will reopen even if in a limited capacity in a couple of days. 
Dr Jackie Blue 
: How will the Government contribute to the rebuilding of roading infrastructure? 
Hon NATHAN GUY 
: The New Zealand Transport Agency is prepared to assist with the rebuilding effort following natural disasters. It has done so many times in the past. A dedicated contingency budget is available and sits at $94 million for the current financial year. The funding assistance rate for the councils is set in proportion to the level of damage and the councils’ ability to contribute. It is too soon to tell how much will need to be spent on Canterbury roads but in conjunction with the rebuilding of the water and waste-water systems underneath the roads we all know that the cost will be considerable.
Finlayson Christopher: Business Statement 
Finlayson Christopher: Business Statement 
[Volume:666;Page:13833] 
Hon CHRISTOPHER FINLAYSON (Attorney-General) 
 on behalf of the  
Leader of the House 
: Those issues are being looked at now but I thank the chief Opposition whip for his very generous comments. I am sure that either Mr Brownlee or Mr Power will be in touch with him should that need eventuate.
Hutchison Paul: Questions for Oral Answer — Questions to Ministers 
Hutchison Paul: Questions for Oral Answer — Questions to Ministers 
[Volume:666;Page:13843] 
8. 
Dr PAUL HUTCHISON (National—Hunua) 
 to the  
Minister of Health 
: What reports has he received on the Canterbury District Health Board’s actions following the Canterbury earthquake? 
Hon TONY RYALL (Minister of Health) 
: 
 I have received many reports and seen firsthand the comprehensive and immediate response of Canterbury health professionals from front-line staff through to management. District health boards from around the country are rallying in support of Canterbury including extra health protection officers from the Wellington Nelson and Southern district health boards nurses from the West Coast and as well extra medical officers of heath and emergency management and water sanitation staff. The primary-care sector too from around New Zealand is supporting general practices pharmacies and non-governmental organisations. Supporting the Canterbury District Health Board is the top priority of the public health service. 
Dr Paul Hutchison 
: Has he been advised of any particular priorities for the Canterbury District Health Board in the next few weeks? 
Hon TONY RYALL 
: When visiting Christchurch Hospital a visitor could not fail to be impressed by the professionalism and calm of the over 6000 staff employed by the Canterbury District Health Board who are delivering critical health services in response to the earthquake. They like all locals have their own personal situations to deal with whether their homes have been lost or damaged and more particularly the stress and concern that arises as the tremors continue. A critical matter has been to ensure that the stress and anxiety of staff in this challenging time is taken into account particularly in rosters and to ensure that they have enough time to deal with their personal situations at home. Every other district health board has prepared a list of staff who are prepared to go to Christchurch at immediate notice in support of the Canterbury District Health Board. I cannot speak highly enough of the contribution of our health professionals there in both the community and the hospitals in response to this challenge.
Shanks Katrina: Questions for Oral Answer — Questions to Ministers 
Shanks Katrina: Questions for Oral Answer — Questions to Ministers 
[Volume:666;Page:13847] 
KATRINA SHANKS (National) 
: 
 To the Minister of Housing how is the Department of Building and Housing working to keep landlords and tenants informed of their rights and responsibilities— 
Mr SPEAKER 
: I apologise to the honourable member. I think this time it was the Labour front bench. I could not hear Katrina Shanks ask her question and I must be able to hear it.
Business Statement 
Business Statement 
[Volume:666;Page:13833] 
Thursday 9 September 2010 
Mr Speaker 
 took the Chair at 2 p.m. 
Prayers 
. 
Business Statement 
Hon CHRISTOPHER FINLAYSON (Attorney-General) 
 on behalf of the  
Leader of the House 
: When the House resumes next week the Marine and Coastal Area (Takutai Moana) Bill will receive its first reading. Priority will also be given to a number of other first readings. 
Hon DARREN HUGHES (Senior Whip—Labour) 
: 
 Firstly I thank the Attorney-General for that very thorough report. There is an entire bill to look forward to next week and there will be other things I am sure. I ask the Attorney-General whether he can advise the House as to whether in the remaining 2 weeks of this particular sitting the Government expects that any legislation might be required following the events in Canterbury at the weekend. I make the offer to the Government that if temporary or urgent legislation is required the Opposition is more than willing to work with the Government to ensure the speedy passage of such legislation through Parliament even if it requires sunset provisions in it in order to give some certainty to events that may be unfolding in that province. 
Hon CHRISTOPHER FINLAYSON (Attorney-General) 
 on behalf of the  
Leader of the House 
: Those issues are being looked at now but I thank the chief Opposition whip for his very generous comments. I am sure that either Mr Brownlee or Mr Power will be in touch with him should that need eventuate.
Hughes Darren: Business Statement 
Hughes Darren: Business Statement 
[Volume:666;Page:13833] 
Hon DARREN HUGHES (Senior Whip—Labour) 
: 
 Firstly I thank the Attorney-General for that very thorough report. There is an entire bill to look forward to next week and there will be other things I am sure. I ask the Attorney-General whether he can advise the House as to whether in the remaining 2 weeks of this particular sitting the Government expects that any legislation might be required following the events in Canterbury at the weekend. I make the offer to the Government that if temporary or urgent legislation is required the Opposition is more than willing to work with the Government to ensure the speedy passage of such legislation through Parliament even if it requires sunset provisions in it in order to give some certainty to events that may be unfolding in that province.
Finlayson Christopher: Business Statement 
Finlayson Christopher: Business Statement 
[Volume:666;Page:13833] 
Hon CHRISTOPHER FINLAYSON (Attorney-General) 
 on behalf of the  
Leader of the House 
: When the House resumes next week the Marine and Coastal Area (Takutai Moana) Bill will receive its first reading. Priority will also be given to a number of other first readings.
Roy Heather: Military Manoeuvres Act Repeal Bill — First Reading 
Roy Heather: Military Manoeuvres Act Repeal Bill — First Reading 
[Volume:666;Page:13817] 
Hon HEATHER ROY (ACT) 
: 
 That speech will be very hard to follow I have to say. I should start by saying just to put Mr Locke out of his misery that the ACT Party will support the Military Manoeuvres Act Repeal Bill. I think that he spoke with such passion about blowing things up that he secretly has a desire to have the ability to do so. I can help him out with that—it is not too late to join the army. 
The Military Manoeuvres Act Repeal Bill is absolutely the right legislation to pass. It is being done not for the reasons that the Labour members suggested—that Mr Bakshi has nothing to talk about—but because it is very important that we have our statutes and law books in a very good tidy position. When laws have not been used and have not been reviewed it is a long time before reform happens. In fact if the previous Labour Government had been any sort of Government it would have tackled regulatory reform in the same way that this Government is now doing. An omnibus bill would be a very good thing but there is always a starting place and Mr Bakshi has started us off with this bill. This House and the people of New Zealand should be thanking him for that. 
This bill repeals the Military Manoeuvres Act 1915 which provides for the Governor-General by proclamation to declare that any land for the period specified is available for military manoeuvres. But given that this Act has not been used for well over 30 years now it is time that it is not only reviewed but repealed. I am pleased to see that Steve Chadwick is agreeing with this in great mirth even though I think she is still stuck on Mr Locke’s speech. 
The Act was put in place to deal with the mobilisation for the First World War. It is difficult in this day and age to see that that situation and the need for the Act to be there would arise again. In fact if we did come to those circumstances the Government would have the ability to quickly put in place legislation that would allow that to happen again but as I said it is unlikely for that to happen. The ACT Party will be supporting this bill. This is a very good move by Mr Bakshi to tidy up the statutes legislation and it should be encouraged.
Vote: Crimes (Reasonable Parental Control and Correction) Amendment Bill — First Reading 
Vote: Crimes (Reasonable Parental Control and Correction) Amendment Bill — First Reading 
[Volume:666;Page:13830] 
A party vote was called for on the question  
That the Crimes (Reasonable Parental Control and Correction) Amendment Bill be now read a first time. 
Ayes 5 
ACT New Zealand 5. 
Noes 115 
New Zealand National 58; New Zealand Labour 42; Green Party 9; Maori Party 4; Progressive 1; United Future 1. 
Motion not agreed to.
Vote: Goods and Services Tax (Exemption of Healthy Food) Amendment Bill — First Reading 
Vote: Goods and Services Tax (Exemption of Healthy Food) Amendment Bill — First Reading 
[Volume:666;Page:13813] 
A party vote was called for on the question  
That the Goods and Services Tax (Exemption of Healthy Food) Amendment Bill be now read a first time.  
Ayes 56 
New Zealand Labour 42; Green Party 9; Maori Party 4; Progressive 1. 
Noes 64 
New Zealand National 58; ACT New Zealand 5; United Future 1. 
Motion not agreed to.
Hutchison Paul: Goods and Services Tax (Exemption of Healthy Food) Amendment Bill — First Reading 
Hutchison Paul: Goods and Services Tax (Exemption of Healthy Food) Amendment Bill — First Reading 
[Volume:666;Page:13812] 
Dr PAUL HUTCHISON (National—Hunua) 
: 
 I too congratulate Rahui Katene on her good intentions in encouraging healthy eating through the Goods and Services Tax (Exemption of Health Food) Amendment Bill but this bill is riddled with flaws. That is no better illustrated than by Labour which when it was in Government did nothing for 9 long years. I ask members to listen to what Mr Phil Goff said to Radio New Zealand. The broadcaster reported that Labour’s leader had “told a meeting in Nelson that removing GST on fresh fruit and vegetables would be positive for health reasons and could also ease the pressure on family budgets”—but Mr Goff said—“it won’t adopt it as policy if it turns out it would create more red tape than it’s worth.” Only 2 minutes earlier who but the colleague of Phil Goff none other than Trevor Mallard had posted the following on his blog—and I invite members to spot the irony. He stated: “In two weeks the Maori Party will vote for a very silly bill to take GST off ‘Healthy Food’. Just imagine trying to define that. And how much of each we are allowed to eat each hour/ day/ week before GST kicks in. And the army of inspectors to check the food. And the increase in GST or other tax to cover the diff.” On the one hand we have Phil Goff saying one thing and on the other hand we have Trevor Mallard saying the other. 
Tonight we have heard Annette King say that Labour thinks the definition is complicated. Rahui Katene said we should not worry about that because all definitions could be dealt with by administrators. Clause 5 which inserts the definition of “healthy food” in section 2(1) of the Goods and Services Tax Act contains a flaw in each of its paragraphs. For instance paragraph (a) talks about canned foods. Can members remember all that sugar swilling around in some of those magnificent canned foods? Paragraph (b) mentions “all bread” and I ask how much nutrition is contained in pure white refined bread. In paragraph (c) cheese and plain milk are mentioned; to some people those foods will just clog up the arteries. Paragraph (d) mentions poultry and seafood but whether they are healthy foods all depends on the way they are cooked. This bill is riddled with flaws and no one other than Labour members illustrates that so clearly.
King Annette: Crimes (Reasonable Parental Control and Correction) Amendment Bill — First Reading 
King Annette: Crimes (Reasonable Parental Control and Correction) Amendment Bill — First Reading 
[Volume:666;Page:13824] 
Hon ANNETTE KING (Deputy Leader—Labour) 
: 
 What an excellent speech from Mr Borrows tonight. I think that Mr Borrows has probably summed up for the majority of this House what we think about this bill—the Crimes (Reasonable Parental Control and Correction) Amendment Bill. It is a member’s bill in the name of David Garrett ACT MP. It was John Boscawen’s bill and I know that he will be disappointed that he is not taking it through the House tonight but I think the baubles of office were probably more tempting than staying on the backbench to pursue this bill that was his passion. 
This bill repeals section 59 of the Crimes Act 1961 and substitutes a new section to provide that parents can use reasonable force to correct their children’s behaviour. Labour opposes this bill. Section 59 was previously amended in an attempt by this House to change the culture of violence towards children in New Zealand. It was agreed to by the majority of this House although Mr Garrett wanted to lay the blame on Labour and said that it would mean that we would be out of power for many years. It was agreed by the majority of members in this House in a sensible debate and compromise so that we could move on from this bill. 
No one is asking for this change. This is a political move by the ACT Party whose time has gone. As Chester Borrows said nobody wants to go back out and listen to submissions on how we should hit our children how hard and with what. We want to get on and ensure that we do the best we can for our children in New Zealand; that we do the best we can with programmes like Incredible Years SKIP and positive parenting programmes to help parents and give them the tools to deal with their children. This is a political bill. I say to ACT that its time has gone we have all moved on and I suggest that the House discharge this bill from the House as fast as possible.
Parata Hekia: Crimes (Reasonable Parental Control and Correction) Amendment Bill — First Reading 
Parata Hekia: Crimes (Reasonable Parental Control and Correction) Amendment Bill — First Reading 
[Volume:666;Page:13824] 
HEKIA PARATA (National) 
: 
 Tena koe Mr Assistant Speaker. Tena tatou te Whare. I rise to speak against the Crimes (Reasonable Parental Control and Correction) Amendment Bill. I agree with previous speakers that this issue has long been debated that we are seeing a cultural change and that that is what is necessary in this country. I can speak from personal experience as an elderly primigravida which is what I learnt I was when I had my first daughter at over the age of 35. 
Simon Bridges 
: Say it again. 
HEKIA PARATA 
: An elderly primigravida. I thought I had some kind of disease when I was approached and told that clinically that is what I was. 
In any event I grew up in a home where smacking did not occur. I grew up in a home where boundaries were set for us without violence being threatened. I did grow up in a home that was rather sexist in that different rules were applied to the boys than to the girls but we all learnt to behave very well and as colleagues in the House will observe I am a very well-behaved person. I owe that to very very good parenting. I had the opportunity to learn from my parents the kind of parent that I wanted to be. 
Very early in my marriage we explicitly discussed how we would bring up children and we explicitly agreed that we would never smack our children. What that forces one to do is to find other measures to bring about the kind of discipline and behaviour that one wants to have in the home and we have managed to get through 17 years of our daughters’ lives without smacking them. From observation and feedback I can say that our daughters are regular normal children who will take every licence and push every boundary that they possibly can. But they know and understand when we as parents tell them that enough is enough and it does not require us to lay a hand on them physically. It seems to me that if we remove that as an option then all of us are forced to find other options by which to get the outcome that we want. I am not suggesting that it is all rosy and sweet. Yes there is shouting doors get slammed and all those kinds of things happen. I know it is a shock and surprise but actually that can and does happen. 
My point is that the legislation is working; the Latta Broad and Hughes review has found that it is working. Practice within Child Youth and Family has been improved as a result of that review so that parents in the wider community who think they need any greater assistance are able to get it freely and quickly. To give some sort of balance to this discussion I say my understanding is that over 80000 domestic violence incidents were reported in 2009. Only 33 were raised in terms of the Crimes Act. Only one charge was laid under section 59 of that Act and that was subsequently withdrawn. If that is not an indication of a law that is working I do not know what is. We will not be supporting this bill and I personally applaud the fact that we will not. Kia ora.
Locke Keith: Military Manoeuvres Act Repeal Bill — First Reading 
Locke Keith: Military Manoeuvres Act Repeal Bill — First Reading 
[Volume:666;Page:13817] 
KEITH LOCKE (Green) 
: 
 It is my great pleasure to announce that the Green Party will support the Military Manoeuvres Act Repeal Bill. I think the points made by the previous speaker Rajen Prasad were very apt— 
Hon Annette King 
: Doctor! 
KEITH LOCKE 
: Dr Prasad sorry. I think an omnibus bill would be the best way out. We have the statues amendment legislation where a whole lot of little non-controversial changes can be put into one bill. Certainly the Military Manoeuvres Act 1915 and other redundant Acts could be dealt with together. Perhaps Mr Bakshi’s bill will stimulate the Government into action and perhaps in a month or two we will see such an omnibus bill. 
I think this bill meets with support from a wide range of groups within the community. The ACT Party will be speaking next and no doubt as absolutist defenders of private property rights it will defend private property holders against the intrusions of people whether they be in suits or in kaki. I look forward to that speech. This bill will meet with the approval of pacifists who do not like any military manoeuvres at all. Also many older people in our society do not like loud noises so they will be supporting this bill. For young children it can be frightening to see people running around with big guns in camouflage paint. Gardeners do not want their cabbages trampled by the boots of troops going through their fields nor do they want their land affected by the toxic after-effects of explosions although it has to be said that sometimes bombs going off aerate the soil. But most farmers want to do that themselves. 
This bill has not been used for 30 years although I did get an email 8 years ago from a woman who lived on Kawau Island right by the beach. She was on her morning walk and was very surprised to see camouflaged troops emerging from the shrubbery and then hear loud explosions. She and her neighbours were very upset that they had not been informed that the military was performing there. Perhaps the military thought this Act was still operational. I think one of the most important parts of the passage of this bill is that it puts an end to all of that. It is interesting that the Act was enacted in 1915 at a time when the military was more powerful backed up by conservative politicians where not only were the military grabbing people’s land for manoeuvres but it was conscripting many young people forcefully and sending them off to be slaughtered in their tens of thousands in Europe. 
If we look at the bill in that context and look at it in the way the ACT Party will—defending private property rights—then whatever angle one comes from we must support Mr Bakshi in passing this bill tonight. Thank you.
Vote: Manukau City Council (Regulation of Prostitution in Specified Places) Bill — First Reading 
Vote: Manukau City Council (Regulation of Prostitution in Specified Places) Bill — First Reading 
[Volume:666;Page:13802] 
A personal vote was called for on the question  
That the Manukau City Council (Regulation of Prostitution in Specified Places) Bill be now read a first time. 
Ayes 82 
Adams (P) 
English (P) 
Kaye (P) 
Roy H 
Ardern S (P) 
Finlayson (P) 
Key (P) 
Ryall (P) 
Auchinvole 
Foss (P) 
King C (P) 
Shanks (P) 
Bakshi 
Garrett 
Lee 
Sio 
Bennett P (P) 
Gilmore (P) 
Lotu-Iiga (P) 
Smith L (P) 
Blue (P) 
Goff (P) 
Macindoe 
Smith N (P) 
Borrows 
Goodhew 
Mahuta (P) 
te Heuheu (P) 
Boscawen 
Goudie (P) 
Mapp (P) 
Tisch (P) 
Bridges 
Graham 
McClay 
Tolley 
Brownlee (P) 
Groser (P) 
McCully (P) 
Tremain 
Calder 
Guy (P) 
Nash (P) 
Twyford (P) 
Carter D (P) 
Hawkins 
O’Connor (P) 
Upston (P) 
Carter J (P) 
Hayes 
Parata (P) 
Wagner (P) 
Choudhary (P) 
Heatley (P) 
Parker (P) 
Wilkinson (P) 
Clendon 
Henare 
Peachey (P) 
Williamson (P) 
Coleman (P) 
Hide 
Power 
Wong 
Collins (P) 
Hodgson (P) 
Prasad 
Woodhouse 
Cosgrove (P) 
Huo (P) 
Quinn 
Young (P) 
Davis (P) 
Hutchison (P) 
Ririnui (P) 
Dean (P) 
Jones (P) 
Robertson R 
Teller: 
Douglas 
Joyce (P) 
Roy E 
Bennett D 
Noes 36 
Ardern J (P) 
Dyson (P) 
King A (P) 
Sharples (P) 
Barker (P) 
Fenton (P) 
Laban (P) 
Shearer (P) 
Beaumont (P) 
Flavell 
Lees-Galloway 
Street 
Burns (P) 
Hague 
Locke 
Turei 
Chadwick 
Harawira (P) 
Mackey (P) 
Turia (P) 
Chauvel (P) 
Hipkins 
Mallard (P) 
Cunliffe (P) 
Horomia (P) 
Moroney (P) 
Curran (P) 
Hughes G (P) 
Pillay (P) 
Dalziel (P) 
Katene 
Robertson G (P) 
Teller: 
Delahunty (P) 
Kedgley 
Sepuloni (P) 
Hughes D 
Bill read a first time. 
Bill referred to the Local Government and Environment Committee.
Bakshi Kanwaljit Singh: Military Manoeuvres Act Repeal Bill — First Reading 
Bakshi Kanwaljit Singh: Military Manoeuvres Act Repeal Bill — First Reading 
[Volume:666;Page:13819] 
KANWALJIT SINGH BAKSHI (National) 
: 
 First of all I thank everyone who has contributed to the Military Manoeuvres Act Repeal Bill and supported it. I would like to clarify that Opposition members mentioned what I am passionate about. There is no doubt that law and order was the issue at the previous election and this Government has been very serious about it. In the past 21 months the Hon Simon Power and the Hon Judith Collins have introduced 18 bills that are related to law and order. I think that this Government is quite serious about this issue. Those members do not have to worry because we have great leadership that is looking after the country in the area of law and order. I thank everyone who has contributed to this bill. 
Bill read a first time.  
Bill referred to the Foreign Affairs Defence and Trade Committee.
Bennett David: Goods and Services Tax (Exemption of Healthy Food) Amendment Bill — First Reading 
Bennett David: Goods and Services Tax (Exemption of Healthy Food) Amendment Bill — First Reading 
[Volume:666;Page:13808] 
DAVID BENNETT (National—Hamilton East) 
: 
 We all know the simplicity of the New Zealand GST tax system; it is renowned around the world. But in respect of the Goods and Services Tax (Exemption of Healthy Food) Amendment Bill there is one point I think we need to make: do members really think that the price of fresh fruit vegetables and other healthy food will come down if we take off GST? No way. The market knows that it can get the same price for them. It will still charge that price and there will not be a 15 percent or 12.5 percent reduction. So the theory behind the Labour argument is completely wrong. There is no guarantee there will be that reduction. There is no guarantee because the market can get those prices now and it will continue to do so even if we took off GST.
Flavell Te Ururoa: Sittings of the House 
Flavell Te Ururoa: Sittings of the House 
[Volume:666;Page:13802] 
TE URUROA FLAVELL (Whip—Maori Party) 
: 
 I seek leave for the House to rise for dinner a little bit early to allow my colleague to have a good run at her speech bearing in mind that there are only about 3 minutes until the dinner break. I seek the leave of the House for that to happen. 
Mr DEPUTY SPEAKER 
: Leave is sought for that purpose. Is there any objection? There is no objection. 
Sitting suspended from 5.57 p.m. to 7.30 p.m.
Calder Cam: Manukau City Council (Regulation of Prostitution in Specified Places) Bill — First Reading 
Calder Cam: Manukau City Council (Regulation of Prostitution in Specified Places) Bill — First Reading 
[Volume:666;Page:13799] 
Dr CAM CALDER (National) 
: 
 I rise to speak in support of this local bill the Manukau City Council (Regulation of Prostitution in Specified Places) Bill which has been submitted by my colleague the Hon George Hawkins on behalf of the Manukau City Council. I am proud to be the National MP based in Manurewa which is a vibrant and diverse community full of hard-working families ambitious for themselves and for their children. 
Street prostitution as my colleague Mr Ross Robertson observed is a dangerous occupation for its practitioners. It impacts negatively on our community and it has proved to be an intractable problem in our community for a number of years. This bill will authorise the Manukau City Council to make bylaws that will designate specific public places within the boundaries of Manukau City where no person is permitted to conduct the business of prostitution or to supply or receive any commercial sexual services. 
The Government the Manukau City Council and local business associations have effected huge improvements in our local Manurewa town centre over the last couple of years. The activities of prostitutes plying their trade in public spaces such as Manurewa town centre and also the Hunters Corner area of Papatoetoe significantly detract from the civic amenity and impact negatively on community pride. Householders and businesses often have to deal with the unsavoury aftermath. Syringes that litter the ground and other debris are not the welcome mat to Manurewa that this community wants. 
I stand for a safer community. I stand for a Manurewa where our young people are encouraged to unlock the treasure trove of potential that lies within them all a Manurewa where our young people are drenched with exhilaration at the opportunities available to them. I commend this bill to the House and I support its referral to a select committee.
Bennett David: Questions for Oral Answer — Questions to Ministers 
Bennett David: Questions for Oral Answer — Questions to Ministers 
[Volume:666;Page:13775] 
9. 
DAVID BENNETT (National—Hamilton East) 
 to the  
Minister of Transport 
: What updates has the Minister received on damage caused by the Canterbury earthquake to the region’s transport infrastructure? 
Hon STEVEN JOYCE (Minister of Transport) 
: 
 I am receiving updates two to three times per day currently. The latest situation is that Christchurch airport is open and both terminals are operational. Rail services were again disrupted by the large aftershock this morning but are now back running. There continues to be significant rail damage near Kaiapoi and services are operating with speed restrictions in other areas. The Port of Lyttelton has suffered damage but is operational. The State highway network is predominantly open except for State Highway 74 at Heathcote Valley off-ramp a slip on State Highway 77 between Glentunnel and Glenroy two sections of State Highway 74 on Anzac Drive and the State Highway 1 Chaney’s Road on-ramp. The Lyttelton tunnel was reopened at 11.30 this morning following a brief closure to inspect cracks that appeared after this morning’s aftershock. A section of State Highway 77 between Methven and Windwhistle has one lane open. Christchurch arterial roads outside the central business district are open. The main damage appears to be suburban streets and extensive repairs will be necessary in conjunction with repairs to services like water and waste water. 
I take the opportunity to thank all the people who have worked tirelessly to ensure that emergency services people and supplies can move around the region and around Christchurch City. 
David Bennett 
: What funding has the Government made available to repair road and rail links? 
Hon STEVEN JOYCE 
: The damage to the State highway network so far has been remarkably light with an initial estimated repair bill of around $6 million to $10 million. Rail too has suffered relatively light damage so far with a repair bill estimated at $2 million. Local roads however have been extensively damaged and a cost estimate is not yet available. The New Zealand Transport Agency is able to provide initial funding assistance for the reinstatement of local roads in the case of natural disasters and initially has $94 million available for the current financial year. The agency is working closely with local councils to estimate the size of the damage and what contribution will be needed. Aftershocks are continuing to cause ongoing damage so all cost estimates are very preliminary at this point.
Parker David: Crimes (Reasonable Parental Control and Correction) Amendment Bill — First Reading 
Parker David: Crimes (Reasonable Parental Control and Correction) Amendment Bill — First Reading 
[Volume:666;Page:13826] 
Hon DAVID PARKER (Labour) 
: 
 I will take only a brief call. I agree with Metiria Turei that New Zealand has problems with violence against children. We have cultural issues as well as a long history of violence against children and it will take a cultural shift in order to fix that problem over time. 
David Garrett 
: This hasn’t done it. 
Hon DAVID PARKER 
: Mr Garrett says that this has not done it. Well cultural shifts take time. We saw that in terms of how long it took to reduce smoking rates and to reduce drunken driving. Similarly I am sure that over time we will see a cultural shift away from inappropriate physical punishment of children. The legislation that this Crimes (Reasonable Parental Control and Correction) Amendment Bill effectively seeks to overturn was a step in the right direction. I agree with Chester Borrows that now is not the time to revisit that legislation; it does send a strong signal. There is nothing greatly wrong with the current situation. It is not being abused by the police. I see no reason to vote in favour of David Garrett’s bill.
Bakshi Kanwaljit Singh: Manukau City Council (Regulation of Prostitution in Specified Places) Bill — First Reading 
Bakshi Kanwaljit Singh: Manukau City Council (Regulation of Prostitution in Specified Places) Bill — First Reading 
[Volume:666;Page:13796] 
KANWALJIT SINGH BAKSHI (National) 
: 
 It is my pleasure to stand and speak on the Manukau City Council (Regulation of Prostitution in Specified Places) Bill which was introduced by the Hon George Hawkins. The bill aims to address behaviour associated with street prostitution in certain areas of Manukau City. Prostitution is one of the oldest professions in the world and I respect those who are in that profession. They take on that profession because of their circumstances not by choice. We say slavery has vanished from modern civilisation but that is not true. Still it exists. It applies only to women and it is known as prostitution. 
My out-of-Parliament office is in Papatoetoe at Hunters Corner and several people have come to my office to complain about street prostitution. Street prostitution at Hunters Corner is a major issue for the residents and business owners in Papatoetoe. Businesses complain that they have found used condoms in their car parks and doorways and that human waste has been left against the walls of their businesses. Schoolchildren from Papatoetoe Central School Papatoetoe High School and Papatoetoe Intermediate School walk past those areas on their way to and from school. 
Papatoetoe is a community of good people and it is a pleasant place to live yet it is dramatically dragged down by a very small minority. During the day Hunters Corner looks like a corner on any shopping strip: a steady stream of traffic passes a pick ‘n’ mix of offices takeaways and grocery shops. But as night falls Hunters Corner is hunted by the predators of sex. 
The proposed law will make Papatoetoe and Manukau a safer area to live and work in. We need to protect our community and our youngsters. When the Prostitution Reform Act 2003 was enacted I doubted that anyone would have thought that street prostitution at Hunters Corner would increase so drastically. Even though this bill does not address all the issues I support the bill at its first reading.
Prasad Rajen: Military Manoeuvres Act Repeal Bill — First Reading 
Prasad Rajen: Military Manoeuvres Act Repeal Bill — First Reading 
[Volume:666;Page:13816] 
Dr RAJEN PRASAD (Labour) 
: 
 I am reminded of the saying: “Cometh the hour cometh the man.” Seriously I was going to take a very brief call but I might take my full time because the last speaker has introduced a serious element to this particular debate. I wonder where was the conviction of his party to really say that National wants to do something serious about obsolete legislation. National has set up Mr Bakshi to take his time on a member’s bill that does something absolutely inconsequential. If this issue was so important for National why did it not introduce an omnibus bill to take in all of those pieces of law that are now obsolete and take the Law Commission’s recommendations seriously? I tell Mr Hayes that his party has not done that and this bill is an abuse of Parliament. 
I do not think for a moment that Mr Bakshi thought about this area of work when preparing himself to come into Parliament. The member has been put up by National. I wanted to congratulate him on being successful in his first member’s bill but the junior Government whip knows that this bill is an abuse and is not serious. If it were serious National should use the right elements of Parliament introduce an omnibus bill and put all of those obsolete Acts into it and then let us fix it up. Labour would support that. This bill is an abuse. 
Mr Bakshi in everything he has said in this House has properly talked about the things that are passionate to him and passionate to his people. What have they been? They have been violence issues. His first member’s bill might have been in an area that he was passionate about and I would respect him as a fellow traveller. But this bill is not it. This bill is an abuse of the system and it is not the way to use a member’s bill. 
The Minister of Defence should be very worried if this really is the height of a member’s concerns about military matters. Mr Mapp and I know he is listening knows that— 
The ASSISTANT SPEAKER (Eric Roy) 
: The member was quite concerned about using appropriate titles. 
Dr RAJEN PRASAD 
: The honourable Wayne Mapp; my apologies. 
The ASSISTANT SPEAKER (Eric Roy) 
: Dr Mapp. 
Dr RAJEN PRASAD 
: The Hon Dr Wayne Mapp; my apologies to a fellow traveller. I know how it is important it is to call doctors by their title. 
This bill is an abuse. Labour will support the bill because it has a serious element to it but this is not the way to do it. Members opposite are defending the indefensible. The member’s time could have been used far more seriously. But I do still congratulate Mr Bakshi on bringing a bill forward and having it pulled out of the ballot. Thank you.
Dunne Peter: Motions — Black Ferns—Women’s Rugby World Cup Victory 
Dunne Peter: Motions — Black Ferns—Women’s Rugby World Cup Victory 
[Volume:666;Page:13764] 
Hon PETER DUNNE (Leader—United Future) 
: 
 I join with others in congratulating the Black Ferns on their unparalleled fourth Women’s Rugby World Cup victory. It is an achievement that is enviable and speaks volumes for their commitment their skill their dedication their preparation and their tenacity in overcoming what seems to be the bane of New Zealand teams male and female competing in international rugby competitions—the ubiquitous yellow card of the referee. 
I join with others in commending the Black Ferns on their achievement and lamenting the lack of support and coverage that their achievements and ongoing competitions receive. Now that we have a four-time world champion team within our midst I hope we can start to see some of the credibility they have achieved on the international stage reflected in the way they are treated and respected at home. 
They are all wonderful people in terms of the occupations and careers they hold and their dedication to their sport. They are exemplary role models. This country can be extremely proud of their achievements. 
Motion agreed to.
Flavell Te Ururoa: Motions — Black Ferns—Women’s Rugby World Cup Victory 
Flavell Te Ururoa: Motions — Black Ferns—Women’s Rugby World Cup Victory 
[Volume:666;Page:13763] 
TE URUROA FLAVELL (Maori Party—Waiariki) 
: 
 As the outstanding playmaker and try scorer when I play rugby it gives me great pleasure to stand on behalf of the Maori Party to support all the discussion today in respect of the Black Ferns’ win. I congratulate as others have done Carla Hohepa from Te Awamutu for becoming the International Rugby Board’s woman personality of the year for 2010. It is pretty awesome to wake up to victories like this one and that of the basketball team although that success was short-lived; they help to offset the catastrophes that we have had in the last couple of days. 
I endorse the remarks about the team’s amazing achievement of victories over Australia Wales South Africa and France and—as the Prime Minister noted—beating England 13-10 in the final. It puts this Black Fern team among the very best having recorded world cup wins in 1998 2002 and 2006. That history is quite important. It means that we need to take a little more note of Dr Farah Palmer the captain of the Black Ferns in her time who has asked the Rugby Union not to drop the ball. She believes that women’s rugby got a slap in the face this year when its national championship was dumped. Women’s rugby along with New Zealand Maori rugby has been a big casualty of the cost-cutting measures of the New Zealand Rugby Union. That is against the fact that—and I know having refereed a couple of games—Maori and Pasifika players have a huge influence amongst these particular teams. 
Earlier this week there was an article with the headline: “Black Ferns conquer odds to win World Cup”. It is bizarre that women’s rugby most definitely is the poor relation as mentioned by other members when it comes to national support. While the English have poured millions of pounds into supporting their side it seems that the New Zealand Rugby Union is a little bit reluctant to put the same investment into the Black Ferns. In fact it is an indictment on our national game that women’s rugby did not have a national provincial championship this year. It is limited to club level budgets have been slashed and even the franchise-based secondary school competition is gone. That is hardly the best platform we could expect to prepare the team for the women’s rugby sevens event at the 2016 Olympics. 
Against that background we acknowledge the remarkable achievement of the Black Ferns on the international field. Despite everything—the lack of funding the sin-binning and the withdrawal of support—they brought the cup home. Ka nui te mihi ki a ratou. The Maori Party is delighted to celebrate their fantastic success.
Parata Hekia: Questions for Oral Answer — Questions to Ministers 
Parata Hekia: Questions for Oral Answer — Questions to Ministers 
[Volume:666;Page:13776] 
11. 
HEKIA PARATA (National) 
 to the  
Minister of Housing 
: What actions has Housing New Zealand taken to assist its tenants following the Christchurch earthquake? 
Hon PHIL HEATLEY (Minister of Housing) 
: 
 Following Saturday’s earthquake staff immediately swung into action to assist affected tenants. As of today the Housing New Zealand Corporation has either visited or spoken to almost all of its 6000 tenants in Christchurch. To date 11 extra staff have been brought in from outside Christchurch with an additional 20 arriving tomorrow to assist with operations. Since this morning’s aftershock the Housing New Zealand Corporation has received an additional 880 work requests mainly related to damaged chimneys jamming doors and windows roofs and hot-water cylinders. On-site inspections of State houses are being prioritised by areas that have been most affected and have sustained the most damage as well as tenants contacting Housing New Zealand Corporation to report damage to their homes. Of the houses that have received an initial assessment over 200 properties have been identified as requiring very high-priority work and given that the Housing New Zealand Corporation has prioritised the most-affected areas it is anticipated that properties likely to have sustained the most significant damage have already been identified. Where tenants need short-term housing while urgent repairs are undertaken on their houses the Housing New Zealand Corporation is working closely with a number of agencies to locate emergency accommodation and it is also coordinating on behalf of the Government people seeking and offering long-term accommodation. I take this opportunity to thank the Housing New Zealand Corporation staff some of whom have sustained damage to their homes yet have still worked tirelessly since Saturday to assist those in need. 
Hekia Parata 
: What progress has Housing New Zealand made with assessing the damage to its stock? 
Hon PHIL HEATLEY 
: The State housing stock in Christchurch is valued at almost $1.1 billion. Of almost 6000 properties that the Housing New Zealand Corporation has in Christchurch most have already had an initial assessment either from on-site visits or by reports by phone. Thirty additional property inspectors will arrive in Christchurch tomorrow and each day 350 to 400 homes will receive comprehensive on-site inspections until all homes have been physically assessed. Urgent health and safety repairs are being undertaken immediately with less-urgent repairs being addressed through a planned programme of work that will be developed over the next couple of weeks.