PM's Press Conference 28/11/16: Earthquake support & Surplus

Prime Minsiter John Key began his weekly press conference with a description of the government’s plans to provide support to the 14 November earthquake. He announced the extension of the employee support package for businesses in Wellington, and mentioned the government’s plan to introduce urgent legislation to assist in smoother rehabilitation to the damaged environment in Kaikoura. Mr. Key also spoke of the proposed new building that is to house members of parliament that is to be constructed.

Questions from the gallery pressed the Prime Minister to expand on the new bills, in which he was a bit vague but did say that it would allow dredging and rocks to be moved with the intention of moving the projects forward more quickly. The question of environmental concern (including wildlife habitat) was raised and Mr Key said he is not aware of any issues.

Regarding the surplus, Mr Key was asked how the money would/should be spent, and about the proposed “tax and family package.”

Other topics included the new MP’s building, Auckland mayor Phill Goff’s proposed visitor' levy, tourism relating to the film Moana, whether the NZME/Fairfax merger opened the floor to regulation, comments on the death of Fidel Castro, the upcoming meeting with His Majesty King Abdullah II of Jordan, Kiwirail and more coastal shipping, and whether life jackets should be mandatory.

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