United Future backs foreshore & seabed proposals

Media statement
Wednesday, December 17, 2003

United Future backs foreshore & seabed proposals

United Future leader Peter Dunne said today his party’s caucus had discussed the Government’s foreshore and seabed proposals exhaustively and was prepared to support them in their present form.

“If, however, the proposals are substantially changed over the course of the upcoming public debate, then United Future will reconsider its backing of the Government’s plans,” he said.

“We have consistently called for the Government to make it plain that the ownership of, and access to, these resources is in the unambiguous ownership and power of the people of New Zealand – and that has been achieved.

“We are pleased the Government listened to our concerns on this matter.

“Our only reservation is that foreshore and seabed land held in the public domain can be sold or disposed of through an Act of Parliament.

“We don’t believe a simple Parliamentary majority is strong enough. Such legislation should be entrenched, requiring 75% of votes in Parliament before it takes effect,“ said Mr Dunne.

He said the government’s proposals recognise and reinforce Maori customary rights and represents a genuine effort to meet the valid expectations of all New Zealanders.

Ends

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