edithatogo/nz-hansard-corpus huggingface dataset:
Quinn Paul: Supplementary Estimates — Imprest Supply Debate 
Quinn Paul: Supplementary Estimates — Imprest Supply Debate 
[Volume:655;Page:4517] 
PAUL QUINN (National) 
: 
 As has been mentioned to me—under I think the Speakers’ rulings on pages 62 and 63; I cannot just place my hand on them—that the rules say that a member cannot move to improve his or her position. I put it to you Mr Assistant Speaker that as I think your office has said to me on a couple of occasions with my beautiful melodious voluminous voice it would not matter where I was sitting; my support for my colleague on this side would in fact be the same whether I sat here or sat at the back. 
The ASSISTANT SPEAKER (Hon Rick Barker) 
: I do not think that that is particularly helpful. The member raises the Speakers’ rulings about shifting seats to enhance a member’s capacity to interject which presupposes that a member will intentionally do that. On a number of occasions I have said that I am not rigid on this particular rule because I think that it is to the advantage of the House to have people drift down towards this part of the Chamber as members are wont to do rather than have them scattered around the place. It helps to create the ambience of the House. The second point I have made previously is that the people who built this Chamber built it as a debating chamber a chamber that invites interjections—it is not a lecture theatre—and interjections are part of debate. 
So I say to the member that I will ask her to take a call if that is what she wishes. I remind Mr Quinn that interjections should be rare and reasonable and hopefully witty and that the House has taken note of the fact that he has been interjecting quite consistently through this debate. The member might like to take that on board as we hear the remaining speeches.
Dyson Ruth: Supplementary Estimates — Imprest Supply Debate 
Dyson Ruth: Supplementary Estimates — Imprest Supply Debate 
[Volume:655;Page:4517] 
Hon RUTH DYSON (Labour—Port Hills) 
: 
 I raise a point of order Mr Speaker. Before I take a call in this debate I wonder whether I could remind you of the Speakers’ rulings that prohibit members from moving from their seat to gain an advantage in interjections. Paul Quinn has done that; he has been interjecting not just through David Parker’s speech but also through his own colleague’s speech. It is against Speakers’ rulings. I ask you to bring that to his attention and to ask him to comply with Speakers’ rulings.
English Bill: Imprest Supply (First for 2009/10) Bill — First Reading 
English Bill: Imprest Supply (First for 2009/10) Bill — First Reading 
[Volume:655;Page:4511] 
Hon BILL ENGLISH (Minister of Finance) 
: 
 I move  
That the Imprest Supply (First for 2009/10) Bill be now read a first time. 
Bill read a first time.
Borrows Chester: Questions for Oral Answer — Questions to Ministers 
Borrows Chester: Questions for Oral Answer — Questions to Ministers 
[Volume:655;Page:4505] 
10.  
CHESTER BORROWS (National—Whanganui) 
 to the  
Minister of Justice 
: What recent changes has he announced to the Public Defence Service? 
Hon SIMON POWER (Minister of Justice) 
: 
 The Public Defence Service which is administered by the Legal Services Agency is an in-house service providing criminal legal aid and duty solicitor services for up to one-third of all legally aided defendants in Auckland and Manukau courts. As part of the Budget the Government is providing $5.3 million in the year to come to expand that pilot service from the courts in Auckland and Manukau to include courts in Waitakere North Shore Pukekohe and Papakura. 
Chester Borrows 
: How has the Public Defence Service demonstrated its effectiveness? 
Hon SIMON POWER 
: A recent value-for-money analysis found that the flow of Public Defence Service cases through the court system led to a two-thirds reduction in jury trials resulting in material savings in court time and cost. That backed up an earlier evaluation. Those savings were achieved with no difference in outcome for the client as measured by overall conviction rates. 
Chester Borrows 
: Has he seen any other evidence regarding the working of the Public Defence Service? 
Hon SIMON POWER 
: Yes I have. Earlier this month I sat in on a session at the Manukau District Court where I was able to see the Public Defence Service in action. I was very impressed with the level of preparedness of the public defenders and the speed with which cases were progressed through the court.
Ryall Tony: Ministerial Statements — Swine Flu—Change from Containment to Management 
Ryall Tony: Ministerial Statements — Swine Flu—Change from Containment to Management 
[Volume:655;Page:4493] 
Hon TONY RYALL (Minister of Health) 
: 
 I thank members for their I think well-deserved praise of our public health authorities and the work they are doing. I also advise Minister Dunne that the Ministry of Health is sending materials to schools to assist them in their messaging for young New Zealanders. In Victoria schools have proven to be the main area of spread and that is why so much effort is going into communicating with schools as to what we can do with our kids in order to help to prevent the flu. Thank you Mr Speaker.
Dunne Peter: Ministerial Statements — Swine Flu—Change from Containment to Management 
Dunne Peter: Ministerial Statements — Swine Flu—Change from Containment to Management 
[Volume:655;Page:4493] 
Hon PETER DUNNE (Leader—United Future) 
: 
 I thank the Minister of Health for his statement to the House updating us on developments of the pandemic as they emerge. I also acknowledge the work of the previous Government in getting us to the state of preparedness where the plans now being implemented were able to be adopted quickly. 
I think we are entering a particularly dangerous phase with this pandemic especially if reports are correct in stating that up to half of the population may acquire this virus without being aware that it has done so. In that eventuality a number of the precautionary steps that are being proposed will be more difficult for people to take if they are not aware in the first place that they are suffering from this particular virus. I think the prudence that has been adopted in recent times has been very beneficial in terms of New Zealanders not overreacting but reacting properly to the emergence and spread of this virus. 
There will be challenges in the future. I put this proposition to the Minister: in terms of some of our larger institutions—our schools and our hospitals in particular—the Government may need to become more activist in terms of ensuring that those institutions have good sanitary materials and physical equipment available and that the message about washing hands and keeping clean is delivered. I think that many people want to do the right thing but they are unsure about how to go about it. Maybe as this virus moves to its next phase that sort of practical information and practical advice is something that needs to be considered by the authorities. 
I conclude by simply acknowledging the work that has been done. This is a difficult time for all New Zealanders and I congratulate the Minister on the prudent way in which he and his officials have handled the situation thus far.
Turia Tariana: Ministerial Statements — Swine Flu—Change from Containment to Management 
Turia Tariana: Ministerial Statements — Swine Flu—Change from Containment to Management 
[Volume:655;Page:4492] 
Hon TARIANA TURIA (Co-Leader—Maori Party) 
: 
 The Maori Party stands in support of the Minister of Health and his statement bringing attention to the need for caution and collective care in our response to any influenza-like illness. We endorse the comments of the Minister that this is a time when we must all take full responsibility to ensure that people are informed of the symptoms and the risk factors associated with the disease. We have a particular concern as it relates to Maori. We know from accumulated research that Maori already experience higher rates of illness from respiratory conditions. On top of that the evidence points to the fact that socio-economic deprivation increases the likelihood of poor outcomes and respiratory disease. When over 56 percent of Maori are located in three of the most deprived socio-economic deciles it makes for particular concern that we must be vigilant in our care of each other. 
The Maori Party believes that it is critical that we all step up to the mark in respect of taking care of each other and taking preventive care of our whanau. The current situation really gives us all the more reason to take all the necessary precautions to maintain good health. We must be alert to the vulnerability of our neighbours our whanau and our communities. This is about taking a common-sense approach: staying home when sick and protecting the life around us. I commend the previous Labour Government for putting in place the pandemic programme and I say thank you to the Minister for the way in which he has approached this issue and ensuring that everybody has been kept informed including the public of New Zealand.
Hide Rodney: Ministerial Statements — Swine Flu—Change from Containment to Management 
Hide Rodney: Ministerial Statements — Swine Flu—Change from Containment to Management 
[Volume:655;Page:4492] 
Hon RODNEY HIDE (Leader—ACT) 
: 
 I rise on behalf of the ACT Party to thank the Minister of Health for keeping Parliament completely informed of the Government’s response but more particularly to thank the Minister for keeping the public of New Zealand informed of what is a very difficult and potentially scary development and for what I believe to be a very intelligent measured and considered response to this flu. Yes a lot of work was done by the previous Government in preparing New Zealand and the health authorities for this situation but the Minister has been at the forefront and I think his job could not have been done better by anyone in this House. I commend the Minister for that.
Hague Kevin: Ministerial Statements — Swine Flu—Change from Containment to Management 
Hague Kevin: Ministerial Statements — Swine Flu—Change from Containment to Management 
[Volume:655;Page:4492] 
KEVIN HAGUE (Green) 
: 
 When I previously spoke in this House in response to the Minister of Health’s first statement on AH1N1 I indicated my belief that it was unlikely that this virus would be contained expressed the Green Party’s best wishes to all those affected by the epidemic and offered the Green Party’s assistance and support for measures to help manage it. In light of the Minister’s statement today and of recent events it is appropriate to reiterate the appeals for calm that we all made on that occasion and at the same time remind New Zealanders of the need for vigilance. Although the severity of illness associated with this virus is generally mild to moderate we need to brace ourselves for the reality that at least serious illness will be experienced by a significant number of our citizens and that the disruption will be considerable. Any steps that can be taken to slow the epidemic in New Zealand will be of tremendous value in the long term. 
The Green Party is very pleased to see the new restriction being placed on the use of Tamiflu. We have been concerned for some time about New Zealand’s experiment in having this medicine available over the counter and hope that we will now see the drug’s use aimed at minimising the development of resistant strains as well as maximising our supply to prepare for future need. I add our voice in praise of the herculean efforts by officials from the Ministry of Health district health boards and throughout the health sector to slow the onset of this epidemic phase. Their work has been extraordinary and a great many New Zealanders owe them a debt of gratitude. Recently I inadvertently overheard two officials from a district health board commenting on how their organisation had coped with AH1N1. They concluded that there was a sense of calm and control because the pandemic preparedness planning process undertaken over the past several years had prepared the organisation for what it would need to do. So I take this opportunity to extend acknowledgment and gratitude to the previous Government for steering that process. 
It is inevitable that at some point the world will experience a pandemic that causes substantial loss of life in New Zealand. It is critical that even as we implement our previously laid plans to cope with AH1N1 we commit ourselves today to keeping a critical eye on what we can learn to ensure that next time our response is better still. The Green Party applauds the measures that the Government has taken and offers our continued support for this considered and well-judged response.
Dyson Ruth: Ministerial Statements — Swine Flu—Change from Containment to Management 
Dyson Ruth: Ministerial Statements — Swine Flu—Change from Containment to Management 
[Volume:655;Page:4491] 
Hon RUTH DYSON (Labour—Port Hills) 
: 
 First of all I acknowledge the Minister of Health and his statement. I thank him for ensuring that all parties have had an ongoing opportunity for briefings on this issue from officials. That openness is appreciated. I acknowledge also the huge additional workload that is being carried by those working within our health system and thank them for the work that they have been doing. 
I reflect on those who have contracted swine flu. For some it has been very mild but for others it has been extremely serious. I am sure that all members of this House wish everyone with swine flu a speedy recovery. Many others have suffered financially due to schools and businesses closing and for some that additional financial burden is very hard to bear. I reinforce the message from the Minister: we all need to continue to take simple precautions to prevent the spread of this flu. The change in status may be confusing for some people and I am pleased to be part of sending what I hope will be a unanimous message from this Parliament this afternoon to continue to encourage everyone to do everything we can to prevent the spread of swine flu. Thank you.
Sittings of the House 
Sittings of the House 
[Volume:655;Page:4567] 
Sittings of the House 
CHRIS TREMAIN (Senior Whip—National) 
: 
 Mr Deputy Speaker the House has made good progress this evening. I seek leave for the House to rise early. 
Mr DEPUTY SPEAKER 
: Leave is sought for that purpose. Is there any objection? There is no objection.
Imprest Supply (First for 2009/10) Bill — Third Reading 
Imprest Supply (First for 2009/10) Bill — Third Reading 
[Volume:655;Page:4548] 
Imprest Supply (First for 2009/10) Bill 
Third Reading 
Hon BILL ENGLISH (Minister of Finance) 
: 
 I move  
That the Imprest Supply (First for 2009/10) Bill be now read a third time 
. 
Bill read a third time.
Appropriation (2008/09 Supplementary Estimates) Bill — Third Reading 
Appropriation (2008/09 Supplementary Estimates) Bill — Third Reading 
[Volume:655;Page:4547] 
Appropriation (2008/09 Supplementary Estimates) Bill 
Third Reading 
Hon BILL ENGLISH (Minister of Finance) 
: 
 I move  
That the Appropriation (2008/09 Supplementary Estimates) Bill be now read a third time 
. 
Bill read a third time.
Imprest Supply (First for 2009/10) Bill — First Reading 
Imprest Supply (First for 2009/10) Bill — First Reading 
[Volume:655;Page:4511] 
Imprest Supply (First for 2009/10) Bill 
First Reading 
Hon BILL ENGLISH (Minister of Finance) 
: 
 I move  
That the Imprest Supply (First for 2009/10) Bill be now read a first time. 
Bill read a first time.
Ryall Tony: Ministerial Statements — Swine Flu—Change from Containment to Management 
Ryall Tony: Ministerial Statements — Swine Flu—Change from Containment to Management 
[Volume:655;Page:4491] 
Hon TONY RYALL (Minister of Health) 
: 
 I wish to make a ministerial statement under Standing Order 347(1) relating to AH1N1 the swine flu. I undertook to keep the House informed of any significant changes. 
Reflecting the wide community transmission of the flu on Friday New Zealand moved from a containment approach to managing the epidemic. This is in line with World Health Organization recommendations. This means that New Zealand is now treating this new flu like the usual seasonal flu. As a result of the tremendous efforts of our public health authorities and primary-care professionals New Zealand has delayed the likely peak of the swine flu beyond the annual flu peak. As of today 12 of the 21 district health board areas are in the “manage it” phase with a further four district health boards expected to enter this phase by the weekend. The decisions to transition to that phase are made by regional medical officers of health and the Ministry of Health. 
Over the coming months the AH1N1 flu will present challenges to the health system and the community. I have been advised that this flu will become very widespread. The number of confirmed cases has grown by one-fifth overnight. This rate of spread will put pressure on hospital emergency departments and general practitioner clinics in particular. For example there may well be lengthier delays in emergency departments and some surgery may need to be deferred because of the pressure on hospital beds and staff. District health boards will be establishing flu centres as appropriate. It is even more essential now than it was previously that Kiwi families take simple precautions to prevent the spread of the flu and we are making information on how to do this widely available. Businesses schools and other organisations should have contingency plans for more people being away sick than usual so that normal life can go on. 
In light of health officials’ advice we are now using the national Tamiflu stockpile strategically. This is because in nearly all cases the flu is mild and it is wise to conserve our stockpile for a possible second wave of a more serious nature. 
I conclude by reinforcing that although the flu will become very widespread—that is expected—it is mild and we have the resources plans and health professionals to deal with it.
Mallard Trevor: Sittings of the House 
Mallard Trevor: Sittings of the House 
[Volume:655;Page:4924] 
Hon TREVOR MALLARD (Labour—Hutt South) 
: 
 I raise a point of order Mr Speaker. I just want to check with our whips that there has been proper consultation on that. There has not. I think we should move an adjournment motion and we should have a debate. 
Mr SPEAKER 
: Leave has been sought. 
Hon Trevor Mallard 
: I have now been assured that it has been agreed— 
Mr SPEAKER 
: I am on my feet. I do not mind other members standing as they congratulate Mr Calder. Leave has been sought for the House to stand adjourned. Is there any objection to that course of action? There is none.
Brownlee Gerry: Sittings of the House 
Brownlee Gerry: Sittings of the House 
[Volume:655;Page:4923] 
Hon GERRY BROWNLEE (Leader of the House) 
: 
 The House is just a few minutes away from what would be the normal rising time. We have made good progress with business today. Accordingly I seek leave for the House to rise at this earlier moment.
Chadwick Steve: Voting — Correction—Misuse of Drugs (Medicinal Cannabis) Amendment Bill 
Chadwick Steve: Voting — Correction—Misuse of Drugs (Medicinal Cannabis) Amendment Bill 
[Volume:655;Page:4908] 
Hon STEVE CHADWICK (Junior Whip—Labour) 
: 
 I seek leave to correct the result of a vote in the first reading of the Misuse of Drugs (Medicinal Cannabis) Amendment Bill. Proxy votes were incorrectly cast for the Noes on behalf of two members who actually cast their own votes for the Ayes. I seek leave to have the vote corrected. 
The ASSISTANT SPEAKER (Eric Roy) 
: Leave is sought for that purpose. Is there anyone opposed to that course of action? There appears to be not. Leave is granted and the record will be amended.
Vote: Road User Charges Amendment Bill — First Reading 
Vote: Road User Charges Amendment Bill — First Reading 
[Volume:655;Page:4908] 
A party vote  was called for on the question  
That the motion be agreed to. 
Ayes 107 
New Zealand National 58; New Zealand Labour 42; ACT New Zealand 5; Progressive 1; United Future 1. 
Noes 14 
Green Party 9; Maori Party 5. 
Motion agreed to.
Joyce Steven: Road User Charges Amendment Bill — First Reading 
Joyce Steven: Road User Charges Amendment Bill — First Reading 
[Volume:655;Page:4908] 
Hon STEVEN JOYCE (Minister of Transport) 
: 
 I move  
That the Transport and Industrial Relations Committee consider the Road User Charges Amendment Bill 
 that the committee report finally to the House on or before 27 July 2009 and that the committee have authority to meet at any time while the House is sitting (except during oral questions) and during any evening on a day on which there has been a sitting of the House and on a Friday in a week in which there has been a sitting of the House and outside the Wellington area during a sitting of the House despite Standing Orders 187 189(a) and 190(1)(b) and (c) 
.
Smith Lockwood: Road User Charges Amendment Bill — First Reading 
Smith Lockwood: Road User Charges Amendment Bill — First Reading 
[Volume:655;Page:4889] 
Mr SPEAKER 
: When the debate was interrupted the Hon Darren Hughes was speaking. However I have been advised that this call will be a split call and that the Hon Annette King will take the remaining 80—8 minutes and 40 seconds.
Davis Kelvin: Questions for Oral Answer — Questions to Ministers 
Davis Kelvin: Questions for Oral Answer — Questions to Ministers 
[Volume:655;Page:4889] 
12.  
KELVIN DAVIS (Labour) 
 to the  
Minister of Maori Affairs 
: Does he stand by his statement in the House on 23 June in relation to student achievement in secondary schools “if secondary schools will not step up and deal with that problem then we go elsewhere such as universities to deal with it.”; if not why not? 
Hon GERRY BROWNLEE (Leader of the House) 
 on behalf of the  
Minister of Maori Affairs 
: The Minister has made a number of statements recently on the need to increase the number of Maori completing degree qualifications and he stands by all of them. He is also of the firm view that student achievement at secondary school is a responsibility of those schools. 
Kelvin Davis 
: Does the Minister understand that many secondary schools may perceive his comments as him saying he has given up on those secondary schools that have difficulty raising Maori achievement? 
Hon GERRY BROWNLEE 
: No that is not what was said. What was laid out was a challenge for secondary schools to do better by the Maori students they teach at the present time. Any glance at the statistics will show the member just how big that challenge is. 
Kelvin Davis 
: What are his solutions to raising Maori achievement at secondary schools? 
Hon GERRY BROWNLEE 
: Secondary schools are like all schools in New Zealand and need to be in tune with the needs of their students. The Minister simply lays down the challenge for them to recognise that they need to do more to lift achievement among this particular sector of their student body.
McClay Todd: Questions for Oral Answer — Questions to Ministers 
McClay Todd: Questions for Oral Answer — Questions to Ministers 
[Volume:655;Page:4883] 
7.  
TODD McCLAY (National—Rotorua) 
 to the  
Minister of Defence 
: What steps is the Government taking to ensure that New Zealanders can have their say in the current defence review? 
Hon Dr WAYNE MAPP (Minister of Defence) 
: 
 Last Friday the Associate Minister and I launched the public consultation phase of the defence review. The public has until 24 August to make its views known. I should note that this is the first defence review for more than 10 years and it will in fact be the very first time that the public has had a direct say in a defence review. 
Todd McClay 
: How will this consultation be undertaken? 
Hon Dr WAYNE MAPP 
: At the launch last week the Associate Minister and I released a public consultation document for comment. This will be widely available in libraries and online at www.defence.govt.nz. There will also be eight to 12 public meetings so that the public can have its say directly. The Associate Minister will be leading that phase. For instance next Thursday the Centre for Strategic Studies at Victoria University is hosting a day-long seminar for defence experts to discuss the review. 
Todd McClay 
: What other measures is the Minister taking to get wide-ranging input into the defence review? 
Hon Dr WAYNE MAPP 
: The defence review includes an independent panel comprising Mr Simon Murdoch; Martyn Dunne the former major-general; and Mr Rob McLeod. They have been appointed and have already met with the review team and Ministers. Independent advice is also being sought on procurement given the Auditor-General’s report of last year. The outcome will be a thorough and comprehensive review and is intended to place defence on a sound footing for the next two decades.
King Annette: Marriage of Speaker 
King Annette: Marriage of Speaker 
[Volume:655;Page:4875] 
Hon ANNETTE KING (Deputy Leader—Labour) 
: 
 Mr Speaker the Opposition could not let this opportunity go without joining with the Government in wishing you and Alexandra a very joyful wedding with your family and friends. I hope that you are able to hear the vows on Saturday and that you will be over your flu. We hope you have a very long and happy marriage. On behalf of the Opposition best wishes from all of us. 
Mr SPEAKER 
: Honourable members I thank you most sincerely. I feel very humbled. The Hon Annette King mentioned my health problem. My ears are still terrible; I have 2 days to get them right. I hope that by Saturday morning I can hear. I thank honourable members very much. I feel very humbled.
Brownlee Gerry: Marriage of Speaker 
Brownlee Gerry: Marriage of Speaker 
[Volume:655;Page:4875] 
Hon GERRY BROWNLEE (Leader of the House) 
: 
 Mr Speaker I wonder whether I might take a moment on behalf of this side of the House to offer you and Alexandra our very very best wishes for your forthcoming wedding on 4 July. I do not think a Speaker has got married during his time in the Chair in the history of the New Zealand Parliament; certainly there has not been a celebration of this type by a Speaker during his time in the Chair. I would also like to congratulate you on choosing 4 July for the occasion. It will ensure there are fireworks somewhere in the world to celebrate that particular day! We offer you our very very best wishes for your future life with Alexandra. We wish her all the best. She knows what she is taking on with you and she is a lucky woman as you are a lucky man. With that regard we give you our very best wishes and we hope you enjoy your day.
Brownlee Gerry: Business Statement 
Brownlee Gerry: Business Statement 
[Volume:655;Page:4875] 
Hon GERRY BROWNLEE (Leader of the House) 
: 
 Although that request does not particularly relate to the business of the House I can assure the member that the Minister of Health ensures that there are daily updates on the Ministry of Health website on the progress of the management of the swine flu. The matter of a ministerial statement of course is up to the Minister.
King Annette: Business Statement 
King Annette: Business Statement 
[Volume:655;Page:4875] 
Hon ANNETTE KING (Deputy Leader—Labour) 
: 
 Could the Leader of the House tell us when he is likely to make time for the Minister of Health to make a ministerial statement updating the House on his management of the swine flu given that he has discontinued his practice of nightly updates to the media now that he is unable to contain the swine flu and given the concerning reports that greater numbers of people are being admitted to Wellington Hospital than are being admitted in the entire state of Victoria?
Brownlee Gerry: Business Statement 
Brownlee Gerry: Business Statement 
[Volume:655;Page:4875] 
Hon GERRY BROWNLEE (Leader of the House) 
: 
 The House goes into adjournment from today for the next 2 weeks. When the House resumes on 21 July the Government will make progress on the first readings on the Order Paper complete the Disputes Tribunal Amendment Bill and advance the Committee stages of the Immigration Bill and the Building Amendment Bill (No. 2).
Brownlee Gerry: Business of Select Committees — Meetings 
Brownlee Gerry: Business of Select Committees — Meetings 
[Volume:655;Page:4875] 
Hon GERRY BROWNLEE (Leader of the House) 
: 
 I seek leave for the Foreign Affairs Defence and Trade Committee to meet outside New Zealand with its counterparts in Tonga Samoa Niue and Rarotonga from 7 July to 10 July 2009 as part of its inquiry into New Zealand’s relationship with South Pacific countries. Mr Speaker you will be aware that the select committee is travelling with the Prime Minister next week. 
Mr SPEAKER 
: Is there any objection to that course of action being followed? There is none.
Sittings of the House 
Sittings of the House 
[Volume:655;Page:4923] 
Sittings of the House 
Hon GERRY BROWNLEE (Leader of the House) 
: 
 The House is just a few minutes away from what would be the normal rising time. We have made good progress with business today. Accordingly I seek leave for the House to rise at this earlier moment. 
Hon TREVOR MALLARD (Labour—Hutt South) 
: 
 I raise a point of order Mr Speaker. I just want to check with our whips that there has been proper consultation on that. There has not. I think we should move an adjournment motion and we should have a debate. 
Mr SPEAKER 
: Leave has been sought. 
Hon Trevor Mallard 
: I have now been assured that it has been agreed— 
Mr SPEAKER 
: I am on my feet. I do not mind other members standing as they congratulate Mr Calder. Leave has been sought for the House to stand adjourned. Is there any objection to that course of action? There is none.
Voting — Correction—Misuse of Drugs (Medicinal Cannabis) Amendment Bill 
Voting — Correction—Misuse of Drugs (Medicinal Cannabis) Amendment Bill 
[Volume:655;Page:4908] 
Voting 
Correction—Misuse of Drugs (Medicinal Cannabis) Amendment Bill 
Hon STEVE CHADWICK (Junior Whip—Labour) 
: 
 I seek leave to correct the result of a vote in the first reading of the Misuse of Drugs (Medicinal Cannabis) Amendment Bill. Proxy votes were incorrectly cast for the Noes on behalf of two members who actually cast their own votes for the Ayes. I seek leave to have the vote corrected. 
The ASSISTANT SPEAKER (Eric Roy) 
: Leave is sought for that purpose. Is there anyone opposed to that course of action? There appears to be not. Leave is granted and the record will be amended.
Marriage of Speaker 
Marriage of Speaker 
[Volume:655;Page:4875] 
Marriage of Speaker 
Hon GERRY BROWNLEE (Leader of the House) 
: 
 Mr Speaker I wonder whether I might take a moment on behalf of this side of the House to offer you and Alexandra our very very best wishes for your forthcoming wedding on 4 July. I do not think a Speaker has got married during his time in the Chair in the history of the New Zealand Parliament; certainly there has not been a celebration of this type by a Speaker during his time in the Chair. I would also like to congratulate you on choosing 4 July for the occasion. It will ensure there are fireworks somewhere in the world to celebrate that particular day! We offer you our very very best wishes for your future life with Alexandra. We wish her all the best. She knows what she is taking on with you and she is a lucky woman as you are a lucky man. With that regard we give you our very best wishes and we hope you enjoy your day. 
Hon ANNETTE KING (Deputy Leader—Labour) 
: 
 Mr Speaker the Opposition could not let this opportunity go without joining with the Government in wishing you and Alexandra a very joyful wedding with your family and friends. I hope that you are able to hear the vows on Saturday and that you will be over your flu. We hope you have a very long and happy marriage. On behalf of the Opposition best wishes from all of us. 
Mr SPEAKER 
: Honourable members I thank you most sincerely. I feel very humbled. The Hon Annette King mentioned my health problem. My ears are still terrible; I have 2 days to get them right. I hope that by Saturday morning I can hear. I thank honourable members very much. I feel very humbled.
Business Statement 
Business Statement 
[Volume:655;Page:4875] 
Business Statement 
Hon GERRY BROWNLEE (Leader of the House) 
: 
 The House goes into adjournment from today for the next 2 weeks. When the House resumes on 21 July the Government will make progress on the first readings on the Order Paper complete the Disputes Tribunal Amendment Bill and advance the Committee stages of the Immigration Bill and the Building Amendment Bill (No. 2). 
Hon ANNETTE KING (Deputy Leader—Labour) 
: 
 Could the Leader of the House tell us when he is likely to make time for the Minister of Health to make a ministerial statement updating the House on his management of the swine flu given that he has discontinued his practice of nightly updates to the media now that he is unable to contain the swine flu and given the concerning reports that greater numbers of people are being admitted to Wellington Hospital than are being admitted in the entire state of Victoria? 
Hon GERRY BROWNLEE (Leader of the House) 
: 
 Although that request does not particularly relate to the business of the House I can assure the member that the Minister of Health ensures that there are daily updates on the Ministry of Health website on the progress of the management of the swine flu. The matter of a ministerial statement of course is up to the Minister.
Business of Select Committees — Meetings 
Business of Select Committees — Meetings 
[Volume:655;Page:4875] 
Thursday 2 July 2009 
Mr Speaker 
 took the Chair at 2 p.m. 
Prayers 
. 
Business of Select Committees 
Meetings 
Hon GERRY BROWNLEE (Leader of the House) 
: 
 I seek leave for the Foreign Affairs Defence and Trade Committee to meet outside New Zealand with its counterparts in Tonga Samoa Niue and Rarotonga from 7 July to 10 July 2009 as part of its inquiry into New Zealand’s relationship with South Pacific countries. Mr Speaker you will be aware that the select committee is travelling with the Prime Minister next week. 
Mr SPEAKER 
: Is there any objection to that course of action being followed? There is none.
Tremain Chris: Sittings of the House 
Tremain Chris: Sittings of the House 
[Volume:655;Page:5006] 
CHRIS TREMAIN (Senior Whip—National) 
: 
 I seek leave for the House to rise very slightly early as we have made good progress this evening. 
The ASSISTANT SPEAKER (Eric Roy) 
: Leave is sought for that purpose. Is anyone opposed to that course of objection? It appears not.
Quinn Paul: Insolvency Amendment Bill — Second Reading 
Quinn Paul: Insolvency Amendment Bill — Second Reading 
[Volume:655;Page:5006] 
PAUL QUINN (National) 
: 
 I rise to support the second reading of the Insolvency Amendment Bill. I think it is useful to reflect on the reason why this bill is before us. The bill amends the Insolvency Act 2006 in response to a number of minor issues and anomalies that have arisen. I guess to sum up this bill it could be described as strengthening the authenticity of the no-asset procedure. On that basis I fully support it. 
The two main areas of particular interest as a number of speakers have already referred to are the issues of fraudulent debt and gift avoidance. Those are two of the issues I want to talk about. In terms of fraudulent debt an example of that might well be where a social welfare benefit has been obtained on false grounds by declaring false details or suchlike. It is important that if that sort of behaviour is undertaken people do not get away with it at the expense of the taxpayer. Under this bill it is clearly set out that those debts will not be able to be covered by a discharge from the no-asset procedure. 
Another specific and particular aspect of the bill that is very important is the issue of gift avoidance. A good example of that currently which is of high interest to a number of people although on a much larger scale is Rod Petricevic’s convertible car. That sort of gifting behaviour where people know they are going down the track towards insolvency and are trying to get rid of property by making gifts to family members so that the property is out of the reach of the creditors is the sort of behaviour that this particular aspect of the bill endeavours to prevent. 
I will touch very briefly on an issue that Lianne Dalziel covered very well which is that we are moving into a time when this legislation will be very useful because a number of people may well come under pressure. She mentioned a couple of examples that she is currently involved in. I can sympathise with her because a similar situation is currently occurring for a client of mine who lives in the Hutt Valley. For whatever reason the constituent MP for Rimutaka is unavailable so she has had to come to me for support and help. Maybe that is because Chris Hipkins is incompetent or is unable to help but for whatever reason a woman has come to me for assistance. She has had a marriage breakdown and is facing issues around her finances. I am working very hard on that case because the member for Rimutaka does not seem to be around when he is needed. These are very real issues particularly in a time of recession. 
It is indeed a pleasure to be able to support the bill. Thank you. 
Bill read a second time.
Power Simon: Securities Disclosure and Financial Advisers Amendment Bill — In Committee 
Power Simon: Securities Disclosure and Financial Advisers Amendment Bill — In Committee 
[Volume:655;Page:4975] 
Hon SIMON POWER (Minister of Commerce) 
: 
 The Securities Disclosure and Financial Advisers Amendment Bill primarily addresses three areas. It deals with the simplified disclosure prospectus; categories of persons who are exempt from the disclosure requirements for offers of securities under the Securities Act; and the Financial Advisers Act through the correction of a minor error. We saw that Act pass under the previous Government. One or two technical areas in it need to be sorted out. 
With that in mind it might be worth with the leave of the Committee briefly going through the two Supplementary Order Papers in my name that have been tabled on the bill. 
Hon Darren Hughes 
: I think so. 
Hon SIMON POWER 
: The shadow Leader of the House indicates that that would assist his members in making a contribution to the Committee stage of this bill. This is likely to be my only contribution to the Committee stage but I am happy to lead the charge in that regard. 
The first Supplementary Order Paper Supplementary Order Paper 29 is in effect a proposed motion to divide the bill into two bills the first being the Securities (Disclosure) Amendment Bill and the second being the Financial Advisers Amendment Bill. It is a pretty straightforward Supplementary Order Paper and we will not dwell on it for too much longer. The second Supplementary Order Paper Supplementary Order Paper 30 relates to some amendments to ensure that the offers of securities that are made to eligible persons and persons who fall within one or more of the categories set out in subparagraphs (i) to (iii) of section 3(2)(a) of the Securities Act be also made to apply to persons outside New Zealand. That is really the extent of Supplementary Order Paper 30. 
I note that the Labour Party the ACT Party and other political parties have been supportive of this legislation. I look forward to a constructive but swift Committee stage in respect of these matters.
Guy Nathan: Disputes Tribunals Amendment Bill — Second Reading 
Guy Nathan: Disputes Tribunals Amendment Bill — Second Reading 
[Volume:655;Page:4973] 
Hon NATHAN GUY (Associate Minister of Justice) 
: 
 It is a great opportunity to take a call on the Disputes Tribunals Amendment Bill which has just come from the Justice and Electoral Committee. We heard from the previous speaker Charles Chauvel that 10 submissions were gained through the select committee process and that three of those submitters chose to be heard orally. It looks to me as though the bill has a great deal of support across the whole of Parliament this evening. 
The objective of the disputes tribunals is to provide cheap simple and fast access to justice and a forum that avoids the legality and formality of the courtroom which is extremely appropriate. Filing fees are significantly lower and no lawyers are allowed. Therefore the costs of taking a claim in the tribunal are significantly lower than in the court process. 
It is significant that National is delivering on its election promises as it has done in its first 6 or 7 months in Government here increasing the jurisdiction of the disputes tribunals to reduce pressure on District Courts. This is the first step in that process. This bill will also help the cash flow and make enforcement of debt easier for small and medium sized businesses and individuals who are feeling the strain placed on them in the current economic climate. That is also a very significant point. 
The bill will make some amendments to quite a large number of other Acts. If members turn to the schedule they will see that this bill affects the Consumer Guarantees Act 1993 the Credit Contracts and Consumer Finance Act 2003 the Fair Trading Act 1986 the Fencing Act 1978 and the Minors’ Contracts Act 1969. So this legislation is very far reaching. 
It will increase the maximum claim level in the disputes tribunals to $15000 or $20000 where both parties agree which is an important point. The current maximum claim level in the disputes tribunals is $7500 or $12000 with the consent of both parties. So the bill represents a significant increase in the monetary threshold. The maximum claim levels were not adjusted under the whole of the previous Government’s 9 years. There has not been any adjustment since National was last in power in 1998 which is a very important point for the House to realise. National has certainly got on with the business here during the first 7 months that we have been in Government. 
Due to inflation and the increase in costs associated with litigation in the District Court the disputes tribunals were losing some of their usefulness to individuals and small businesses with relatively simple disputes and the proposed increase in maximum claim levels improves access to justice. This is a significant point. 
This is an important bill which is progressing through its second reading this evening. It looks to me as though it has a great deal of support right across the whole of Parliament. It is great that the Government and the other political parties in this Parliament support it. I commend the second reading of the bill to the House.
Sepuloni Carmel: Disputes Tribunals Amendment Bill — Second Reading 
Sepuloni Carmel: Disputes Tribunals Amendment Bill — Second Reading 
[Volume:655;Page:4970] 
CARMEL SEPULONI (Labour) 
: 
 I stand to talk on the Disputes Tribunals Amendment Bill. Labour supports the bill. I will refer to something the Hon Lianne Dalziel talked about before which is that this issue is essentially one of access to justice. What Lianne was saying was that unfortunately only 10 submissions were made to the select committee so perhaps there is another way in which this issue can be looked at. She pointed out the fact that we need to look at the substance of the issues raised in the submissions and also at the lack of submissions. So I thought I would start by talking about that. 
The aim of this bill is to amend the Disputes Tribunals Act 1988 to increase the maximum claim levels of the disputes tribunal from $7500 or $12000 with the consent of all the parties to $15000 or $20000 with the consent of all the parties. Lianne also mentioned that an important issue to consider is the separation of the mandatory amount and the agreed amount. So that is something that maybe needs to be taken into consideration by the select committee in the future. 
The disputes tribunals were established by the responsible Minister as divisions of particular District Courts. The jurisdiction of disputes tribunals is exercised by referees who are appointed under warrants by the Governor-General for terms of 3 years and the referees may be reappointed. In performing their statutory duties referees have the same status as justices of the peace acting in their criminal jurisdiction. In general tribunal decisions are enforced as District Court decisions. 
The increase to the maximum claim levels will enable an increased number of New Zealanders to resolve their civil disputes in a simple cheap fast and less formal forum. The tribunal will continue to operate on its current basis balancing the required protections for parties against the need to provide simple cheap and fast access to justice. 
I reiterate that the main provisions of the bill are that the maximum amount for claims will increase from $7500 or $12000 with the consent of all the parties to $15000 or $20000 with the consent of all the parties. The bill makes consequential amendments to the Consumer Guarantees Act 1993 the Credit Contracts and Consumer Finance Act 2003 the Fair Trading Act 1986 the Fencing Act 1978 the Minors’ Contracts Act 1969 and the Retirement Villages Act 2003. Labour supports this amendment bill. Thank you.
Goodhew Jo: Port Nicholson Block (Taranaki Whanui ki Te Upoko o Te Ika) Claims Settlement Bill — Second Reading 
Goodhew Jo: Port Nicholson Block (Taranaki Whanui ki Te Upoko o Te Ika) Claims Settlement Bill — Second Reading 
[Volume:655;Page:4963] 
JO GOODHEW (National—Rangitata) 
: 
 I rise to make a brief contribution to the second reading of the Port Nicholson Block (Taranaki Whanui ki Te Upoko o Te Ika) Claims Settlement Bill and in doing so I join in acknowledging the representatives of the claimant group who are here in the House today—people for whom this day is an important day of progress. 
This bill gives effect to aspects of the deed of settlement signed by the Port Nicholson Block Settlement Trust and the Crown in July 2008 to settle all of Taranaki Whanui ki Te Upoko o Te Ika’s historical Treaty claims against the Crown. The enactment of the bill is an important indicator of progress in settling historical Treaty of Waitangi claims which is a commitment of this National Government. 
In respect of the claims Taranaki Whanui ki Te Upoko o Te Ika’s claims against the Crown which the Crown acknowledges and this settlement will settle include firstly the Crown’s failure to consistently protect Taranaki Whanui ki Te Upoko o Te Ika’s interests during the process by which the Crown and its agents acquired their interests in the Port Nicholson Block; secondly the compulsory acquisition and endowment of their lands for public purposes; thirdly the delay in implementing legislation and administration of their reserves; and lastly the undermining of Taranaki Whanui ki Te Upoko o Te Ika’s tino rangatiratanga. 
This is a comprehensive and final settlement. The bill is a comprehensive and final settlement of the historical Treaty of Waitangi claim. It is intended to enhance the ongoing relationship between Taranaki Whanui ki Te Upoko o Te Ika and the Crown and I commend the work of the Maori Affairs Committee the Minister for Treaty of Waitangi Negotiations the members and most important the claimants and their representatives. Thus I conclude my contribution in support of this bill.
Graham Kennedy: Appointments — Judicial Conduct Commissioner 
Graham Kennedy: Appointments — Judicial Conduct Commissioner 
[Volume:655;Page:4949] 
Dr KENNEDY GRAHAM (Green) 
: 
 It is the pleasure of the Green Party to endorse the appointment of Mr Gascoigne to the position of Judicial Conduct Commissioner. Having considered his qualifications we are satisfied that he is eminently equipped to undertake the role and we are entirely confident that he will fulfil the requirements of the position with distinction. We simply wish him well in the execution of his duties.