Transtasman Political Letter – 5 June Digest

June 5, 2008
A paradox of MMP politics in NZ - the world calls for more food, but the Greens want to leg-rope the dairy industry… Nats are well ahead, but have to solve some fiscal headaches…Making sense of the Peters’ shadow-boxing and the price he wants for ETS support…NZ doesn’t make it onto Rudd’s radar…Economic clouds become even darker: Is there a silver lining?…And mining sector’s remarkable comeback.

Food Crisis Means Need For “Green Revolution”
The global food crisis has re-ignited demands for freer farm trade. UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-Moon is urging world leaders to immediately suspend or eliminate many price controls and other agricultural trade restrictions to bring down soaring food prices.

Nats Lead Polls, But Have Some Fiscal Headaches

The latest round of polls indicate support for National has consolidated. Even the poll most favoured by Labour (TV3) shows a 15-point lead for National, similar to the Herald-Digi sample.

The Peters’ Puzzle Unpicked
NZ First which got a bounce, as Trans-Tasman predicted last week it would from the Budget (of two points in the latest Colmar Brunton poll) is showing the kind of form which could yet enable it to jump the 5% threshold, and against the odds retain its place in Parliament.

Price To Be Paid For Backing Emissions Trading
Electricity rebates for SuperGold cardholders (a NZ First initiative) may be the price NZ First demands for its support of the controversial Emissions Trading Scheme legislation.
CAPITAL TALK
Securities Commission Chair Jane Diplock has been re-elected Executive Chair of the International Organisation of Securities Commissions.

Play Of The Week: Saying Sorry

Two apologies dominated the week. Helen Clark led off with a round of apologies to the country’s surviving Vietnam Veterans.

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