John Key MP
National Party Finance Spokesman
6 April 2006
Cullen’s failure to front at Aust-NZ forum a disgrace
It’s incredible that Finance Minister Michael Cullen won’t attend the Australia-New Zealand leadership forum in Auckland
next month, says National Finance spokesman John Key.
“There are a range of issues in his portfolio which are of strategic importance to New Zealand,” says Mr Key.
“It’s a disgrace that the Minister of Finance can’t find the time in his schedule to attend such an important event.
“What does this say about New Zealand’s commitment to the single economic market concept?”
“Having made up a lame excuse not to go to last year’s forum in Melbourne, Dr Cullen has again thumbed his nose at this
important occasion.
“Australia is our largest and most important trading partner and it’s astonishing that Dr Cullen can’t be bothered to
make it.
“Is Phil Goff’s attendance in Dr Cullen’s place a sign that he’s been given the nod by Prime Minister Helen Clark to
read the 2008 Budget? If so, has he had any complaints from Trevor Mallard?”
ENDS