17 October 2005
New Zealand First To Provide Supply And Confidence To Labour-Led Government
The Rt Hon Winston Peters today announced that New Zealand First will remain out of coalition government whilst agreeing
to a confidence and supply agreement with the Labour-led government.
“The primary consideration for New Zealand First’s caucus and the party board of directors was the need to ensure a
durable and stable government.
“To this end, New Zealand First has ensured that the potential for an unstable ‘Mexican standoff’ in Parliament is
removed and a clear majority can be established on confidence and supply motions.
“New Zealand First is committed to ensuring that this government will last its full term – to November 2008.
“The agreement provides the opportunity for New Zealand First to deliver to its supporters on a range of key policy
initiatives heralded during the 2005 election campaign.
“This is a positive arrangement that highlights the potential of MMP for a party to provide both stable government and
deliver to their constituents. We look forward to making this work over the next three years,” concluded Mr Peters.
ENDS