edithatogo/nz-hansard-corpus huggingface dataset:
Hayes John: Taxation (Annual Rates Employee Allowances and Remedial Matters) Bill — Third ReadingText is incorporated into the Bound VolumeHayes John: Taxation (Annual Rates Employee Allowances and Remedial Matters) Bill — Third Reading[Sitting date: 19 June 2014. Volume:699;Page:18737. Text is incorporated into the Bound Volume.]JOHN HAYES (National—Wairarapa):As the sun comes up it also sets and it is certainly setting on the last speaker Darien Fenton and her party. I would simply like to point out to that member who was not at any of the Finance and Expenditure Committee meetings that discussed the Taxation (Annual Rates Employee Allowances and Remedial Matters) Bill that in fact a person and their partner with two children collecting an income of about $50000 or below pays no tax at all.Hon Amy Adams: Zero.JOHN HAYES: None zero zip. This bill clarifies the tax treatment of employer-provided accommodation accommodation allowances and other payments provided by employers to employees to reimburse them for expenditure incurred. It will bring clarity for many taxpayers and minimise compliance and administration costs for many businesses and organisations. That is really good.Can I please also challenge the comments made by the last speaker about the regional employment scheme by saying that people there are not paid the minimum wage. If that is the situation those employers are operating beyond the law. They certainly do not do that in my electorate because I keep a very close eye on them. When an employee is expected to work away from home or from their workplace for up to 2 years employer-provided accommodation will be tax exempt. This exemption will be provided for 3 years for employees working on capital projects and there is a separate transitional rule operating down in Christchurch.This is jolly good legislation completely misrepresented by the last speaker. I commend it to the House.
Wilkinson Kate: Taxation (Annual Rates Employee Allowances and Remedial Matters) Bill — Third ReadingText is incorporated into the Bound VolumeWilkinson Kate: Taxation (Annual Rates Employee Allowances and Remedial Matters) Bill — Third Reading[Sitting date: 19 June 2014. Volume:699;Page:18735. Text is incorporated into the Bound Volume.]Hon KATE WILKINSON (National—Waimakariri):This is the third and final reading of the Taxation (Annual Rates Employee Allowances and Remedial Matters) Bill. Having heard that previous speaker Dr David Clark though listeners could be forgiven for thinking that that might have been a leadership campaign speech. He spotted a gap he spotted an opening he took the opportunity—goodness knows why.But actually we are talking about this taxation bill an omnibus tax bill that is about fine-tuning the tax system. Prior to that we had two other Opposition speakers who were mistakenly lamenting the lack of a signing of an “IGA”—an inter-governmental agreement—which had in fact been signed. There was a press release put out last week that said it has definitely been signed. The “FATCA”—which is actually the Foreign Account Tax Compliance Act which is US legislation—led to the inter-governmental agreement. It actually makes it easier for New Zealand financial institutions to comply and thereby it actually reduces the additional costs being passed on to New Zealand customers. That is a good thing. We have fewer costs and less compliance for New Zealand taxpayers. Surely that is a good thing. I commend this third and final reading of the bill.
Ngaro Alfred: Questions for Oral Answer — Questions to MinistersText is incorporated into the Bound VolumeNgaro Alfred: Questions for Oral Answer — Questions to Ministers[Sitting date: 19 June 2014. Volume:699;Page:18727. Text is incorporated into the Bound Volume.]12.ALFRED NGARO (National)on behalf of Hon PHIL HEATLEY (National—Whangarei) to the Minister for Senior Citizens: What recent reports has she released relating to enduring powers of attorney?Hon JO GOODHEW (Minister for Senior Citizens):I have recently released a comprehensive review of the 2007 amendments to the enduring power of attorney provisions in the Protection of Personal and Property Rights Act 1998. The review found that the 2007 amendments have for the most part been effective in providing better protection for people setting up enduring powers of attorney but it also identified areas that need improving.Alfred Ngaro: What is she doing to address the recommendations in the report?Hon JO GOODHEW: After finding that there was generally low understanding as to what an enduring power of attorney is an information campaign will commence in the coming weeks. This targets those appointing attorneys people taking on the role of enduring power of attorney health practitioners and legal professionals to understand what is required of them. Work has already begun on simplifying the forms and processes for applying for an enduring power of attorney and I am also looking at whether enduring powers of attorney could be made more affordable encouraging law firms to offer enduring power of attorney discounts through the SuperGold card programme.
McKelvie Ian: Questions for Oral Answer — Questions to MinistersText is incorporated into the Bound VolumeMcKelvie Ian: Questions for Oral Answer — Questions to Ministers[Sitting date: 19 June 2014. Volume:699;Page:18722. Text is incorporated into the Bound Volume.]8.IAN McKELVIE (National—Rangitīkei)to the Minister for Primary Industries: What recent announcement has he made regarding the biocontainment facility at Wallaceville?Hon NATHAN GUY (Minister for Primary Industries):On Monday I announced a $65 million high-security biocontainment facility will be built in Wallaceville in Upper Hutt. This is another demonstration of the Government’s commitment to biosecurity. This new fit-for-purpose laboratory facility will be equipped to current international standards and have better capacity to deal with large-scale emergency situations in the unlikely event that one should occur. It will replace the existing high-security laboratory at the site and continue more than 100 years of animal disease diagnostics at this site. Work is expected to begin on the site next month with construction planned to begin early next year.Ian McKelvie: Why is this announcement important for New Zealand’s primary industry exports?Hon NATHAN GUY: Primary industries are the backbone of the New Zealand economy with over $20 billion worth of exports coming from animals and animal products. A major disease outbreak could halt trade which could be resumed only through extensive laboratory testing. The laboratories and skilled personnel at Wallaceville have an essential role in responding to disease outbreaks protecting public health and providing international trade assurances about New Zealand’s animal disease status. I have made biosecurity my No. 1 priority. A world-standard diagnostic laboratory is not a luxury; indeed it is a necessity.
Robertson Grant: Questions for Oral Answer — Questions to MinistersText is incorporated into the Bound VolumeRobertson Grant: Questions for Oral Answer — Questions to Ministers[Sitting date: 19 June 2014. Volume:699;Page:18721. Text is incorporated into the Bound Volume.]7.GRANT ROBERTSON (Labour—Wellington Central)to the Minister for Economic Development: On how many occasions has he discussed the current pay negotiations for Ministry of Business Innovation and Employment staff with the Chief Executive of the Ministry of Business Innovation and Employment and on what dates did those discussions take place?Hon STEVEN JOYCE (Minister for Economic Development):I thank the member for his question. I have taken the precaution of checking my records before answering the question today. I have looked back through my diary—I did not go back all the way to 2003 but I did look back—to make sure that we had the answer because I think it is always a good idea to check your records before you respond. I can inform the member—Hon David Cunliffe: He doesn’t do humour very well—he doesn’t do humour any better than charisma.Hon STEVEN JOYCE: I would keep my voice down if I were you David. I can inform the member of three occasions: 17 October 2013 5 May 2014 and 4 June 2014.Grant Robertson: Did the chief executive tell him at the meeting on 4 June that the State Services Commission had not approved the offer that his negotiating team intended to make to Ministry of Business Innovation and Employment staff?Hon STEVEN JOYCE: I cannot recall that particular statement. I do not think he did say it but I am not going to rush out and categorically lead with my chin without checking the diary like other people would. But I do not recall him saying anything along those lines.Grant Robertson: Can I ask the Minister to search his memory from 2 weeks ago and tell the House how he responded to the chief executive telling him that the State Services Commission had not approved the offer he was intending to make to Ministry of Business Innovation and Employment staff?Hon STEVEN JOYCE: Again for the member I cannot confirm that but I can confirm what I told him yesterday which is that the only advice I gave Mr Smol that day was to say to check with the State Services Commission and make sure it was informed of the progress he was making.Grant Robertson: Will he guarantee that all of his discussions with the chief executive of the Ministry of Business Innovation and Employment about the pay offer were consistent with his obligations as a Minister under the State Sector Act and Cabinet Manual?Hon STEVEN JOYCE: This is the third day that this question has come up because it is the biggest issue that Mr Robertson can identify. I can tell the member just like I told him 2 days ago that I am well aware of the State Sector Act and the Cabinet Manual in relation to these matters and I can confirm that I have followed them.
Hutchison Paul: Questions for Oral Answer — Questions to MinistersText is incorporated into the Bound VolumeHutchison Paul: Questions for Oral Answer — Questions to Ministers[Sitting date: 19 June 2014. Volume:699;Page:18717. Text is incorporated into the Bound Volume.]4.Dr PAUL HUTCHISON (National—Hunua)to the Minister of Health: What progress is being made on the Christchurch Hospitals’ redevelopment?Hon TONY RYALL (Minister of Health):Design plans are now entering the final stage of development and construction is expected to begin in September as part of a $650 million—plus investment in Canterbury. Once complete the new Christchurch Hospital will boast new operating theatres with around 400 beds an expanded intensive care unit a new emergency department and a rooftop helipad. Canterbury District Health Board is holding a public meeting tonight to update Cantabrians on progress and the district health board is very keen for the public to attend.Dr Paul Hutchison: What progress has been made at the Burwood health campus?Hon TONY RYALL: At Burwood construction is now under way. When completed that hospital will have 23 extra beds an extended radiology department and a new outpatient department able to manage 80000 outpatients a year. The Government is committed to providing Cantabrians with top-quality health facilities.
Brownlee Gerry: Business StatementText is incorporated into the Bound VolumeBrownlee Gerry: Business Statement[Sitting date: 19 June 2014. Volume:699;Page:18713. Text is incorporated into the Bound Volume.]Hon GERRY BROWNLEE (Leader of the House):Yes.
Robertson Grant: Business StatementText is incorporated into the Bound VolumeRobertson Grant: Business Statement[Sitting date: 19 June 2014. Volume:699;Page:18713. Text is incorporated into the Bound Volume.]GRANT ROBERTSON (Labour—Wellington Central):Can I ask the Leader of the House whether there is any intent to progress the Crimes (Match-fixing) Amendment Bill before the House rises?
Brownlee Gerry: Business StatementText is incorporated into the Bound VolumeBrownlee Gerry: Business Statement[Sitting date: 19 June 2014. Volume:699;Page:18713. Text is incorporated into the Bound Volume.]Hon GERRY BROWNLEE (Leader of the House):Next week when the House resumes on Tuesday 24 June the Government will look to progress the Appropriation (2013/14 Supplementary Estimates) Bill the Companies and Limited Partnerships Amendment Bill and a number of other items on the Order Paper. Wednesday is a members’ day.
Business StatementText is incorporated into the Bound VolumeBusiness Statement[Sitting date: 19 June 2014. Volume:699;Page:18713. Text is incorporated into the Bound Volume.]Thursday 19 June 2014Mr Speaker took the Chair at 2 p.m.Prayers.Business StatementHon GERRY BROWNLEE (Leader of the House):Next week when the House resumes on Tuesday 24 June the Government will look to progress the Appropriation (2013/14 Supplementary Estimates) Bill the Companies and Limited Partnerships Amendment Bill and a number of other items on the Order Paper. Wednesday is a members’ day.GRANT ROBERTSON (Labour—Wellington Central):Can I ask the Leader of the House whether there is any intent to progress the Crimes (Match-fixing) Amendment Bill before the House rises?Hon GERRY BROWNLEE (Leader of the House):Yes.
Robertson H V Ross: Taxation (Annual Rates Employee Allowances and Remedial Matters) Bill — Third ReadingText is incorporated into the Bound VolumeRobertson H V Ross: Taxation (Annual Rates Employee Allowances and Remedial Matters) Bill — Third Reading[Sitting date: 18 June 2014. Volume:699;Page:18687. Text is incorporated into the Bound Volume.]The ASSISTANT SPEAKER (H V Ross Robertson): The member is calling is he?
Ross Jami-Lee: Companies and Limited Partnerships Amendment Bill — In CommitteeText is incorporated into the Bound VolumeRoss Jami-Lee: Companies and Limited Partnerships Amendment Bill — In Committee[Sitting date: 18 June 2014. Volume:699;Page:18676. Text is incorporated into the Bound Volume.]JAMI-LEE ROSS (Junior Whip—National):I move That the question be now put.Motion agreed to.Clause 1 agreed to.The question was put that the amendments set out on Supplementary Order Paper 465 in the name of the Hon Craig Foss to clause 2 be agreed to.Amendments agreed to.Clause 2 as amended agreed to.The Committee divided the bill into the Companies Amendment Bill (No 4) and the Limited Partnerships Amendment Bill (No 2)pursuant to Supplementary Order Paper 466.Bill to be reported with amendment presently.
Calder Cam: Companies and Limited Partnerships Amendment Bill — In CommitteeText is incorporated into the Bound VolumeCalder Cam: Companies and Limited Partnerships Amendment Bill — In Committee[Sitting date: 18 June 2014. Volume:699;Page:18672. Text is incorporated into the Bound Volume.]Dr CAM CALDER (National):I move That the question be now put.The question was put that the amendments set out on Supplementary Order Paper 465 in the name of the Hon Craig Foss to Part 2 be agreed to.Amendments agreed to.Part 2 as amended agreed to.
Mitchell Mark: Companies and Limited Partnerships Amendment Bill — In CommitteeText is incorporated into the Bound VolumeMitchell Mark: Companies and Limited Partnerships Amendment Bill — In Committee[Sitting date: 18 June 2014. Volume:699;Page:18666. Text is incorporated into the Bound Volume.]MARK MITCHELL (National—Rodney):I move That the question be now put.Motion agreed to.The question was put that the amendments set out on Supplementary Order Paper 465 in the name of the Hon Craig Foss to Part 1 be agreed to.Amendments agreed to.Part 1 as amended agreed to.
Ross Jami-Lee: Companies and Limited Partnerships Amendment Bill — In CommitteeText is incorporated into the Bound VolumeRoss Jami-Lee: Companies and Limited Partnerships Amendment Bill — In Committee[Sitting date: 18 June 2014. Volume:699;Page:18665. Text is incorporated into the Bound Volume.]JAMI-LEE ROSS (Junior Whip—National):I move That the question be now put.
Tisch Lindsay: Member Vacancy — Epsom Electoral District—Hon John BanksText is incorporated into the Bound VolumeTisch Lindsay: Member Vacancy — Epsom Electoral District—Hon John Banks[Sitting date: 18 June 2014. Volume:699;Page:18648. Text is incorporated into the Bound Volume.]The ASSISTANT SPEAKER (Lindsay Tisch): I am sorry to interrupt the honourable Minister but her time has expired.
Hayes Joanne: General DebateText is incorporated into the Bound VolumeHayes Joanne: General Debate[Sitting date: 18 June 2014. Volume:699;Page:18634. Text is incorporated into the Bound Volume.]JOANNE HAYES (National):Tēnā koe Mr Assistant Speaker. I am pleased to stand as the final speaker in this general debate. Not long ago I think it was about February 2013—most on the Opposition benches will remember this because I think it was around about the time of the first Labour leadership coup—Mr Cunliffe chose as his deputy to run with him the Hon Nanaia Mahuta. No doubt the whānau of Tainui would have been ecstatic about this proposition. Yet only months later Mr Cunliffe’s second run at the leadership saw him dump the Hon Nanaia Mahuta in favour of his current deputy. Yes he dumped a Māori girl from Tainui. That is disgusting. I can imagine how much of a kick in the guts that would have been for Nanaia and how that hurt—how that hurt and how that hurt resonated through Tainui. That is absolutely disgusting I say.Then we on the Government benches watched with interest as the only other Labour MP with heaps of talent—we all know who that was Shane Jones—quit. He quit because he could not stomach the direction his leader was taking the party in. When it comes to working with the Greens—a Labour-Greens Government that is frightening. Then of course there was the Tāmaki Makaurau candidate selection. What a farce that was. Shane Taurima was ruled out leaving Will Flavell as the last man standing. But did the Labour leader accept Will? No he did not. He allowed nominations to reopen and our Will missed out.I have observed a Labour Party leader who quite happily tramples on his own MPs and also those who wish to aspire to be on his team and I do not know why they want to do that. Why on earth would they want to do that? Why would any Māori MP or anybody want to be there on Mr Cunliffe’s team let alone vote for Labour? Why would anyone trust this man? We have heard all the porkies that have been said. We have read them in the newspapers. We heard them from my colleagues today. The clouds of Cunliffe are dark and uncompromising. They are dangerous.This country must not let the clouds in for if that happens then New Zealand will go back decades. This National-led Government has worked very hard for this country and the results speak for themselves. Under a National-led Government we are global economic leaders and nobody—absolutely nobody—can argue with that. All this will be lost if the clouds of Cunliffe and his lies are let in. I reckon it is not going to be long before Labour’s “ABC” club opens its doors again. But then who wants to drink from the Labour Party chalice which has been filled with poisonous droplets from the clouds of Cunliffe? Kia ora.The debate having concluded the motion lapsed.
English Bill: General DebateText is incorporated into the Bound VolumeEnglish Bill: General Debate[Sitting date: 18 June 2014. Volume:699;Page:18623. Text is incorporated into the Bound Volume.]Hon BILL ENGLISH (Deputy Prime Minister):In the next few days the Labour Party has to come clean about every contact with Mr Donghua Liu and every donation from him because if it does not come clean it may be unable to save its leader. That is where it has got to. The reason the Labour Party has to explain all those contacts and donations is that no one trusts what David Cunliffe says about the donations and the contacts with Mr Donghua Liu.It is not as if this House has not had the opportunity for every member to understand that Mr Liu has been active in the political scene. Partly as a result of declarations of donations from Mr Liu Maurice Williamson stepped down from his job so it is not as if no one knew that Mr Liu was about. There does appear to be one person who either did not know or did not care and that is David Cunliffe the leader of the Labour Party. The reason no one trusts him is this: “Do you recall ever meeting Mr Liu?”. “I don’t recall ever meeting him no.” “Did you have anything to do with granting his permanent residency?”. “No I did not.” “Did you advocate on his behalf at all?”. “No.” “Were you aware of any advice against granting him permanent residency?”. “Not to my recollection.” That was yesterday. Today of course we have the letter that he wrote advocating exactly for his permanent residency.Any member of Parliament can say: “I don’t remember writing a letter some time ago on behalf of a constituent.” but the problem is that when David Cunliffe says that who will believe him? You cannot believe him. This is the man who set up his own personal trust as part of his leadership campaign precisely to hide donations—precisely. When asked to reveal those donations as his leadership rival Grant Robertson did he still would not reveal those donations so how do we know that one of the donors is not Mr Donghua Liu? How do we know? We do not know.So Mr Cunliffe has a very simple problem. If anyone trusted him before—and who knows how many of those there were—will anyone trust him now? I am not talking about the public. I am not talking about the Government. I am not talking about the media. I am talking about his own caucus. So as the champagne is popped in Grant Robertson’s office today and David Parker wanders off on his intellectual journey across the Sahara trying to find something that might mean something to being in a future Government do the rest of the members of the caucus trust what David Cunliffe says?Hon Members: No.Hon BILL ENGLISH: And you can tell that by looking at them. You can tell that by looking at them. So the Government has made up its mind the public have made up their minds and the media have made up their minds. There is only one question left: when will the Labour Party caucus make up its mind?
Carter David: General DebateText is incorporated into the Bound VolumeCarter David: General Debate[Sitting date: 18 June 2014. Volume:699;Page:18623. Text is incorporated into the Bound Volume.]Mr SPEAKER: I cannot see a valid point of order coming out of that but I will comment that the level of interjection through that speech from David Parker was unreasonable. I hesitated over whether to assist the member but I did not want to—Hon David Parker: I didn’t need your assistance.Mr SPEAKER: I agree he did not need it. I did not want to interrupt his speech. It is a robust debate—it is the general debate—but the level of interjection must be reasonable.
Robertson Grant: General DebateText is incorporated into the Bound VolumeRobertson Grant: General Debate[Sitting date: 18 June 2014. Volume:699;Page:18622. Text is incorporated into the Bound Volume.]GRANT ROBERTSON (Labour—Wellington Central):I raise a point of order Mr Speaker. I am just concerned that perhaps we need to turn up the heating in the House because Mr Henare is obviously very very cold over there. I just wonder whether you might like to increase the heating so that he can take that scarf off.
Martin Tracey: Questions for Oral Answer — Questions to MinistersText is incorporated into the Bound VolumeMartin Tracey: Questions for Oral Answer — Questions to Ministers[Sitting date: 18 June 2014. Volume:699;Page:18616. Text is incorporated into the Bound Volume.]TRACEY MARTIN (NZ First):How much public money has been spent on land and other physical assets for Partnership schools up to 31 March—[Interruption]Mr SPEAKER: Order! I am going to ask the member to repeat that question. It was being interjected on from my left. It was unable to be heard.
Ardern Shane: Questions for Oral Answer — Questions to MinistersText is incorporated into the Bound VolumeArdern Shane: Questions for Oral Answer — Questions to Ministers[Sitting date: 18 June 2014. Volume:699;Page:18616. Text is incorporated into the Bound Volume.]8.SHANE ARDERN (National—Taranaki - King Country)to the Minister of Health: What recent investments has the Government made in health services for the Bay of Plenty?Hon TONY RYALL (Minister of Health):Last week the local MP Mrs Anne Tolley and I were privileged to open the new $67 million Whakatāne public hospital. With more hospital beds and extra services this building will ensure that the 50000 people living in that region continue to receive high-quality care for many years to come. The new building includes three state-of-the-art operating theatres a larger emergency department a modern radiology department bigger in-patient wards an acute care unit for patient observation and a 10-bed paediatric ward. This new building makes it easier for staff to provide better faster and more convenient care for patients in that region.Shane Ardern: What other capital investments has the Government made in health services?Hon TONY RYALL: Well that is a very good question. The Government has invested around $1 billion in the most difficult of economic times—$1 billion—into capital projects and district health boards and we are continuing to invest more money in upgrading our New Zealand public hospitals. This includes $83 million for the revamp of Rotorua Hospital; a $190 million clinical services upgrade at Middlemore Hospital; $80 million at the Taranaki-based hospital at which the member will be joining me at the official opening I think next week in New Plymouth; and $27 million for the east wing redevelopment of the Tauranga public hospital.
Robertson Grant: Questions for Oral Answer — Questions to MinistersText is incorporated into the Bound VolumeRobertson Grant: Questions for Oral Answer — Questions to Ministers[Sitting date: 18 June 2014. Volume:699;Page:18610. Text is incorporated into the Bound Volume.]3.GRANT ROBERTSON (Labour—Wellington Central)to the Minister for Economic Development: Did he meet with the Chief Executive of the Ministry of Business Innovation and Employment on 4 June 2014 and if so did he discuss with him the pay negotiations that were under way with MBIE staff?Hon STEVEN JOYCE (Minister for Economic Development):Yes and yes. The chief executive briefed me on progress with the negotiations.Grant Robertson: Is it correct that pay negotiations with ministry staff were adjourned until 3.30 p.m. on 4 June to allow for his approval to be sought for the offer the ministry intended to make at a meeting held at 2.30 that day?Hon STEVEN JOYCE: I have no idea about the timing on that day or on any other. He was just briefing me with an update on the negotiations.Grant Robertson: When he said to the House yesterday that the Cabinet Manual and the State Sector Act both make it clear that Ministers are not to get involved in pay negotiations why was he approving the pay offer to be given to Ministry of Business Innovation and Employment staff which resulted in negotiations being delayed until he had given that approval?Hon STEVEN JOYCE: The member’s assertion is completely incorrect. I did not approve it.Grant Robertson: What did he say to David Smol in the meeting on 4 June with regard to the pay offer being made to ministry staff?Hon STEVEN JOYCE: As I recall it Mr Smol came in he sat down and he gave me an update on the negotiations. I do not think I said much to him at all except I think I said to him that my only counsel to him was to keep the State Services Commission informed on progress.Grant Robertson: Did he tell the chief executive at that meeting that he did not believe anything more than the pay offer that was on the table was appropriate?Hon STEVEN JOYCE: Well as I say Mr Smol did not seek my advice in that regard and I did not give it.
Carter David: Questions for Oral Answer — Questions to MinistersText is incorporated into the Bound VolumeCarter David: Questions for Oral Answer — Questions to Ministers[Sitting date: 18 June 2014. Volume:699;Page:18607. Text is incorporated into the Bound Volume.]Mr SPEAKER: Order! I am going to invite the member to start his question again. [Interruption] Order! It would be with reluctance that I ask a member from the Government side of the House to leave the Chamber but if we are not going to get a reasonable level of interjection and certainly not the barrage I have just listened to that is exactly the course of action that I will undertake.
Cunliffe David: Questions for Oral Answer — Questions to MinistersText is incorporated into the Bound VolumeCunliffe David: Questions for Oral Answer — Questions to Ministers[Sitting date: 18 June 2014. Volume:699;Page:18607. Text is incorporated into the Bound Volume.]Hon DAVID CUNLIFFE (Leader of the Opposition):Does he stand by his statement that “if New Zealanders saved more the money could go—[Interruption]
Carter David: Questions for Oral Answer — Questions to MinistersText is incorporated into the Bound VolumeCarter David: Questions for Oral Answer — Questions to Ministers[Sitting date: 18 June 2014. Volume:699;Page:18607. Text is incorporated into the Bound Volume.]Mr SPEAKER: I need no further assistance. The matter was raised with me. The wording of questions is a discussion that occurs between the member who lodges the question and the Minister’s office. With regard to your suggestion of authentication I understand that was from a media report which the Clerk did not accept as valid authentication. Questions ultimately are a matter of discussion and then they are finally accepted and put on this Order Paper.
Robertson Grant: Questions for Oral Answer — Questions to MinistersText is incorporated into the Bound VolumeRobertson Grant: Questions for Oral Answer — Questions to Ministers[Sitting date: 18 June 2014. Volume:699;Page:18607. Text is incorporated into the Bound Volume.]GRANT ROBERTSON (Labour—Wellington Central):I raise a point of order Mr Speaker. Just before we begin question time I want to refer you to the wording of question No. 7 which was put down by—[Interruption]Mr SPEAKER: Order! This is a point of order.Hon Steven Joyce: I hope it is.Mr SPEAKER: Order! I hope it is too but there will not be any—[Interruption] Does the member still wish to raise his point of order?GRANT ROBERTSON: Yes I do Mr Speaker—very much. Question No. 7 when it was originally lodged and accepted by the Clerk’s Office read: “What concerns if any has he expressed regarding the progress Health Benefits Ltd has made towards obtaining the $700 million of “savings” which”—and it now says—he “required”. Originally it said “had threatened”. That was an authenticated document that your office accepted and then it was changed after the Minister objected to that. I wonder when we provide authentication what the course of action is.
Vote: Vulnerable Children Bill — In CommitteeText is incorporated into the Bound VolumeVote: Vulnerable Children Bill — In Committee[Sitting date: 17 June 2014. Volume:699;Page:18601. Text is incorporated into the Bound Volume.]A party votewas called for on the questionThat clause 2 as amended be agreed to.Ayes103New Zealand National 59; New Zealand Labour 34; New Zealand First 7; Māori Party 2; United Future 1.Noes15Green Party 14; Mana 1.Clause 2 as amended agreed to.The Committee divided the bill into the Vulnerable Children Bill the Children Young Persons and Their Families (Vulnerable Children) Amendment Bill and the KiwiSaver (Vulnerable Children) Amendment Billpursuant to Supplementary Order Paper 434.Bill to be reported with amendment presently.
Vote: Vulnerable Children Bill — In CommitteeText is incorporated into the Bound VolumeVote: Vulnerable Children Bill — In Committee[Sitting date: 17 June 2014. Volume:699;Page:18600. Text is incorporated into the Bound Volume.]A party votewas called for on the questionThat clause 1 be agreed to.Ayes103New Zealand National 59; New Zealand Labour 34; New Zealand First 7; Māori Party 2; United Future 1.Noes15Green Party 14; Mana 1.Clause 1 agreed to.The question was put that the amendment set out on Supplementary Order Paper 435 in the name of the Hon Paula Bennett to clause 2 be agreed to.Amendment agreed to.
Vote: Vulnerable Children Bill — In CommitteeText is incorporated into the Bound VolumeVote: Vulnerable Children Bill — In Committee[Sitting date: 17 June 2014. Volume:699;Page:18600. Text is incorporated into the Bound Volume.]A party votewas called for on the questionThat the question be now put.Ayes62New Zealand National 59; Māori Party 2; United Future 1.Noes56New Zealand Labour 34; Green Party 14; New Zealand First 7; Mana 1.Motion agreed to.
Tisch Lindsay: Companies and Limited Partnerships Amendment Bill — In CommitteeText is incorporated into the Bound VolumeTisch Lindsay: Companies and Limited Partnerships Amendment Bill — In Committee[Sitting date: 17 June 2014. Volume:699;Page:18605. Text is incorporated into the Bound Volume.]The CHAIRPERSON (Lindsay Tisch): I am sorry to interrupt the honourable Minister. The time has come for me to report progress.Progress to be reported presently.House resumed.The Chairperson reported the debate on the performance and current operations of Crown entities public organisations and State enterprises; the Taxation (Annual Rates Employee Allowances and Remedial Matters) Bill with amendment; the Vulnerable Children Bill with amendment and that the Committee had divided it into three bills; and progress on the Companies and Limited Partnerships Amendment Bill.Report adopted.
Foss Craig: Companies and Limited Partnerships Amendment Bill — In CommitteeText is incorporated into the Bound VolumeFoss Craig: Companies and Limited Partnerships Amendment Bill — In Committee[Sitting date: 17 June 2014. Volume:699;Page:18604. Text is incorporated into the Bound Volume.]Hon CRAIG FOSS (Minister of Commerce):Just very briefly Supplementary Order Paper 465 is actually a tracked version of the entire Companies and Limited Partnerships Amendment Bill and its changes. So measuring it by weight or number of pages is not all that scientific. Also to put Mr Parker’s mind at ease the criminalisation in respect of section 135 has been removed as a stand-alone offence and is now included as a new offence under section 380 of the Companies Act.
Tisch Lindsay: Companies and Limited Partnerships Amendment Bill — In CommitteeText is incorporated into the Bound VolumeTisch Lindsay: Companies and Limited Partnerships Amendment Bill — In Committee[Sitting date: 17 June 2014. Volume:699;Page:18603. Text is incorporated into the Bound Volume.]The CHAIRPERSON (Lindsay Tisch): I call Dr David Clark.
Tisch Lindsay: Companies and Limited Partnerships Amendment Bill — In CommitteeText is incorporated into the Bound VolumeTisch Lindsay: Companies and Limited Partnerships Amendment Bill — In Committee[Sitting date: 17 June 2014. Volume:699;Page:18601. Text is incorporated into the Bound Volume.]The CHAIRPERSON (Lindsay Tisch): We move to the debate on Part 1. This is clauses 3 to 43 and schedules 1 and 2.
Hauiti Claudette: Vulnerable Children Bill — In CommitteeText is incorporated into the Bound VolumeHauiti Claudette: Vulnerable Children Bill — In Committee[Sitting date: 17 June 2014. Volume:699;Page:18600. Text is incorporated into the Bound Volume.]CLAUDETTE HAUITI (National):I move That the question be now put.
Ross Jami-Lee: Vulnerable Children Bill — In CommitteeText is incorporated into the Bound VolumeRoss Jami-Lee: Vulnerable Children Bill — In Committee[Sitting date: 17 June 2014. Volume:699;Page:18599. Text is incorporated into the Bound Volume.]JAMI-LEE ROSS (Junior Whip—National):I move That the question be now put.
Roy Eric: Taxation (Annual Rates Employee Allowances and Remedial Matters) Bill — In CommitteeText is incorporated into the Bound VolumeRoy Eric: Taxation (Annual Rates Employee Allowances and Remedial Matters) Bill — In Committee[Sitting date: 17 June 2014. Volume:699;Page:18582. Text is incorporated into the Bound Volume.]The CHAIRPERSON (Eric Roy): This is a debate on clauses 4 to 126 and the schedule.
Roy Eric: Debate on Crown Entities Public Organisations and State Enterprises — In CommitteeText is incorporated into the Bound VolumeRoy Eric: Debate on Crown Entities Public Organisations and State Enterprises — In Committee[Sitting date: 17 June 2014. Volume:699;Page:18573. Text is incorporated into the Bound Volume.]The CHAIRPERSON (Eric Roy): The time for the debate has expired. The debate on the performance in the 2012/13 and current operations of Crown entities public organisations and State enterprises has therefore concluded. I will report the debate to the House presently.Debate to be reported presently.
Sabin Mike: Debate on Crown Entities Public Organisations and State Enterprises — In CommitteeText is incorporated into the Bound VolumeSabin Mike: Debate on Crown Entities Public Organisations and State Enterprises — In Committee[Sitting date: 17 June 2014. Volume:699;Page:18572. Text is incorporated into the Bound Volume.]MIKE SABIN (National—Northland):I very much appreciate the opportunity to take a call and knock back on a couple of statements made by the previous speaker Poto Williams. The work that is being done in Christchurch on behalf of Housing New Zealand has been outstanding.Sitting suspended from 6 p.m. to 7.30 p.m.MIKE SABIN: I am happy to close out this debate. It is actually quite appropriate that we do it on this particular area of the Government’s business because if we look at the housing stock that this Government took over it pretty much personifies what we saw from the Labour Government which was not a lot of investment not a lot of effort and a derelict State house stock essentially that needed a whole lot of work and a whole lot of investment. There has been some significant work that has gone on in the course of the last 12 months. I will just rattle over a few points of interest. There were 6960 applicants of which 96 were of high priority. There were 18000 needs assessments and over 1.4 million calls through the customer service centre. There were 282 properties freed up for investigations where tenants had been behaving in a fraudulent manner. It actually dovetails into many other areas of work that this Government has done to reflect to people who deserve the support of the State that if they are receiving that they have certain obligations. Certainly the taxpayer does not expect to be ripped off by people whom the State is happy to support in a time of their need. In this portfolio we have seen some good work carried on there and that obviously frees up houses for people who are in genuine need and are not there simply to rip off their fellow taxpayer.There has been some significant work in improving the turn-round time from a house becoming vacant. Certainly in a previous life I saw some Housing New Zealand homes that were left in a disgraceful state to be quite honest and the amount of repair that was required to bring them up to standard was significant. But what we do know is that if we take a Broken Windows approach to coin a phrase from Rudi Giuliani—if we maintain a good standard and we have expectations that that standard is maintained—then in the main that is exactly what we get. I think we can be very proud of the work that has gone on from the chief executive of Housing New Zealand in terms of his leadership and the way in which areas that have needed improvement have shown improvement. The turn-round times are actually above target in terms of reoccupying houses that have been vacated. Some 390000 maintenance actions have been completed which is a substantial investment. In fact this Government’s investment in that housing stock has been substantial but it is to meet need—it is to meet need.
Tisch Lindsay: Debate on Crown Entities Public Organisations and State Enterprises — In CommitteeText is incorporated into the Bound VolumeTisch Lindsay: Debate on Crown Entities Public Organisations and State Enterprises — In Committee[Sitting date: 17 June 2014. Volume:699;Page:18568. Text is incorporated into the Bound Volume.]The CHAIRPERSON (Lindsay Tisch): Leave is sought for that purpose. Is there any objection? There is no objection. It can be tabled.Document by leave laid on the Table of the House.Report noted.
King Annette: Debate on Crown Entities Public Organisations and State Enterprises — In CommitteeText is incorporated into the Bound VolumeKing Annette: Debate on Crown Entities Public Organisations and State Enterprises — In Committee[Sitting date: 17 June 2014. Volume:699;Page:18568. Text is incorporated into the Bound Volume.]Hon ANNETTE KING (Labour—Rongotai):I wish to table an Official Information Act request on the number of leaks at Dunedin Hospital—
Robertson H V Ross: Debate on Crown Entities Public Organisations and State Enterprises — In CommitteeText is incorporated into the Bound VolumeRobertson H V Ross: Debate on Crown Entities Public Organisations and State Enterprises — In Committee[Sitting date: 17 June 2014. Volume:699;Page:18534. Text is incorporated into the Bound Volume.]The CHAIRPERSON (H V Ross Robertson): The debate on the performance of Crown entities public organisations and State enterprises is a series of debates on individual financial reviews of Crown entities public organisations and State enterprises as reported by select committees. A total of 3 hours is allocated for the debate. The debates on the individual financial reviews should be relevant to their performance in their 2012-13 financial year and their current operations. A member may have no more than two calls on each financial review. The compendium of the financial reviews available for debate is available on the Table. Reports on the entities yet to be reported cannot be debated. I understand that members have indicated the Crown entities public organisations and State enterprises they wish to debate. The first entity I understand members wish to debate is the New Zealand Tourism Board.
Carter David: Urgent Debates Declined — Hon John Banks—Resignation as Member of ParliamentText is incorporated into the Bound VolumeCarter David: Urgent Debates Declined — Hon John Banks—Resignation as Member of Parliament[Sitting date: 17 June 2014. Volume:699;Page:18534. Text is incorporated into the Bound Volume.]Mr SPEAKER: I have received letters from the Rt Hon Winston Peters and the Hon David Cunliffe seeking to debate under Standing Order 386 the decision of the Auckland High Court in relation to charges that the Hon John Banks filed a false electoral return his subsequent resignation and its implications for confidence in the Government. For there to be an urgent debate there must be a particular case of recent occurrence that involves administrative or ministerial responsibility of the Government that requires the urgent attention of the House. An urgent debate is a way of holding the Government to account for an action for which it is responsible. There must be distinct ministerial responsibility for the particular case for which the debate is sought.There is no ministerial responsibility for the decision of the High Court or the resignation of a member. Furthermore an urgent debate is not an appropriate means of exploring the question of confidence. The House procedures provide regular opportunities to test the confidence in a Government. I understand the Government has today lodged a notice of motion seeking to set aside a by-election in the seat of Epsom and that this is likely to be debated this week. This will provide the opportunity to discuss the issues surrounding the resignation of the Hon John Banks. The applications are therefore declined.
Young Jonathan: Questions for Oral Answer — Questions to MinistersText is incorporated into the Bound VolumeYoung Jonathan: Questions for Oral Answer — Questions to Ministers[Sitting date: 17 June 2014. Volume:699;Page:18532. Text is incorporated into the Bound Volume.]11.JONATHAN YOUNG (National—New Plymouth)to the Minister of Consumer Affairs: How will consumers benefit from the improvements to consumer law that come into effect today?Hon CRAIG FOSS (Minister of Consumer Affairs):The Consumer Law Reform Bill which was passed last year is a comprehensive update of New Zealand’s consumer legislation. The changes that come into effect today will strengthen consumer rights simplify business compliance and ensure consumer protections are clear and accessible. Consumers now have the same rights when purchasing goods and services regardless of whether they buy online in a store by auction over the phone at home or anywhere else.Jonathan Young: What are some of the key changes that will benefit consumers?Hon CRAIG FOSS: Some of the key changes for businesses and consumers include that protection under the Consumer Guarantees Act will include online businesses and auction sites such TradeMe traders will be liable if goods do not arrive on time or are damaged a 5-day cooling-off period will now apply to uninvited direct door-to-door and telephone sales new disclosure rules affecting extended warranties and a new provision will require traders to be able to substantiate any claims they make as opposed to the Commerce Commission having to test that claim. These changes give more rights to consumers and will toughen up on unscrupulous traders.
Carter David: Resignations — Hon John Banks EpsomText is incorporated into the Bound VolumeCarter David: Resignations — Hon John Banks Epsom[Sitting date: 17 June 2014. Volume:699;Page:18521. Text is incorporated into the Bound Volume.]Mr SPEAKER: I wish to advise the House that I have received a letter fromthe Hon John Banks resigning his seat in the House with effect from 5 p.m. on Friday 13 June 2014.
Urgent Debates Declined — Hon John Banks—Resignation as Member of ParliamentText is incorporated into the Bound VolumeUrgent Debates Declined — Hon John Banks—Resignation as Member of Parliament[Sitting date: 17 June 2014. Volume:699;Page:18534. Text is incorporated into the Bound Volume.]Urgent Debates DeclinedHon John Banks—Resignation as Member of ParliamentMr SPEAKER: I have received letters from the Rt Hon Winston Peters and the Hon David Cunliffe seeking to debate under Standing Order 386 the decision of the Auckland High Court in relation to charges that the Hon John Banks filed a false electoral return his subsequent resignation and its implications for confidence in the Government. For there to be an urgent debate there must be a particular case of recent occurrence that involves administrative or ministerial responsibility of the Government that requires the urgent attention of the House. An urgent debate is a way of holding the Government to account for an action for which it is responsible. There must be distinct ministerial responsibility for the particular case for which the debate is sought.There is no ministerial responsibility for the decision of the High Court or the resignation of a member. Furthermore an urgent debate is not an appropriate means of exploring the question of confidence. The House procedures provide regular opportunities to test the confidence in a Government. I understand the Government has today lodged a notice of motion seeking to set aside a by-election in the seat of Epsom and that this is likely to be debated this week. This will provide the opportunity to discuss the issues surrounding the resignation of the Hon John Banks. The applications are therefore declined.
Resignations — Hon John Banks EpsomText is incorporated into the Bound VolumeResignations — Hon John Banks Epsom[Sitting date: 17 June 2014. Volume:699;Page:18521. Text is incorporated into the Bound Volume.]Tuesday 17 June 2014Mr Speaker took the Chair at 2 p.m.Prayers.ResignationsHon John Banks EpsomMr SPEAKER: I wish to advise the House that I have received a letter fromthe Hon John Banks resigning his seat in the House with effect from 5 p.m. on Friday 13 June 2014.