7 December 2004
Hon Matt Robson MP, Progressive Deputy Leader
Fair trade with China doesn't mean silence on human rights
New Zealand's desire to lower unfair barriers on our exports into China doesn't mean we should ever tone down our
championing of human rights or our support for democratic renewal in China, says Progressive MP Matt Robson.
Council of Trade Unions' president Ross Wilson today criticized the government of China's decision to postpone a seminar
on labour standards which was due to be held there next week.
"It is good news that we have a government that is committed to engaging with China and helping put practical measures
in place to facilitate greater access to China's important market for our exporters.
"But it is important to remember that while our government seeks preferential access to China's large and growing market
that doesn't ever mean that the Chinese government is off-limits to public criticism because all governments must always
be open to public scrutiny," the Progressive MP said.
"Abuses of human rights and the suppression of democratic unions must continue to be highlighted by democrats the world
over. Chinese workers will organise, as they have done before, for democracy and better working conditions and democrats
from outside China must always lend them public support to do so," Matt Robson said.
"As China increasingly opens up to the world, and its people grow in wealth, there is no doubt at all that the forces of
democracy will grow in China and the government of China can expect democrats everywhere to support and encourage that
development," the Progressive MP said.
ENDS