National slams new transport law

National has joined the chorus of groups opposing the Land Transport Management Bill.

Transport spokesman Roger Sowry says that with submissions almost finished it's clear the bill as written won't allow for public-private partnerships or toll roads.

"There are too many restrictions and uncertainties in the bill. No private investor in their right mind would touch such schemes.

"The law needs to be changed to more closely resemble the way the system operates in New South Wales."

Groups such as Business New Zealand, Federated Farmers, the Automobile Association, the Road Transport Forum, the Forest Owners Association, the Meat Industry Association and others are planning a campaign to have the bill changed.

"It is also ridiculous that concepts such as economic efficiency have been thrown out the window in favour of environmental and social issues. Whether Labour or the Greens like it or not, our transport infrastructure is a core part of our economy.

"Labour needs to get a spine and stand up to the Greens. The bill will not work as long as it is strangled by the restrictions the Greens have forced on to it," said Mr Sowry.

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