Media Release
23 August 2000
GOVERNMENT TO LAUNCH NEW CREDIT CARD DEFENCE PACKAGE TODAY
New Zealand First’s Defence spokesman, Ron Mark said he expects the Government to announce today that it will buy 102
LAV III’s over six years on the “never never”.
“The Government’s decision to buy these gold plated armoured personnel carriers in 3 batches of 34, at two yearly
intervals is typical of Labour’s credit card approach to governance.
“At $6 million dollars per vehicle this decision will not only severely limit New Zealand’s ability to address other
urgent Defence needs over the next six years, it will also leave the Government exposed to possible legal action over
shonky tendering procedures.
“The announcement today will signal the government’s total disregard for more cost effective options and a cavalier
dismissal of the professional advice from many quarters,” said Ron Mark.
Ends.