Media Statement
For immediate release
Monday, 20 June 2005

Baldock pleased with RMA amendments

United Future environment spokesman Larry Baldock today hailed the Resource Management Act amendment reported back to Parliament this afternoon, as another step forward in United Future's commitment to improving the Act.

"We have made a number of changes in response to submitters concerns and I look forward to hearing from stakeholders as they examine those changes over the next four weeks before the next stage of the bills passage into law," Mr Baldock said after the Resource Management and Electricity Legislation Bill was reported back.

"I am particularly pleased to have convinced the Government to allow for direct referral to the environment court when circumstances dictate that is the best way to proceed with applications of national importance.

"Also the removal of the term 'urban form' from the responsibility of regional councils will prevent confusion and duplication of responsibilities between territorial and regional councils," he said.

"United Future began this parliamentary term with a clear commitment to amend the RMA and this bill will be a great part of fulfilling that promise and commitment."

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