John Key MP
National Party Leader

7 February 2007

Labour’s standover tactics on school food won’t work

National will not stand for bullying and will carry on with its Foods in Schools initiative by not identifying the schools involved, says National Party Leader John Key.

“Wesley Primary has been subject to standover tactics and bullying from this Labour Government, which cares more about making political points than making sure kids are well-fed.

“We have the Education Minister completely denying there’s a problem in today’s Herald, and Helen Clark not far behind and bickering over the numbers.

“National is determined to proceed with its Food in Schools programme, and we will go around the all-controlling Labour Government if necessary.”

Mr Key says he will carry on the programme but won’t identify the schools involved.

“I see this as the best way to beat Labour’s standover tactics and bullying.”

Mr Key says he’s staggered Helen Clark is arguing over KidsCan’s comment today that 15,000 primary pupils will start the new school year with empty stomachs. Meanwhile, her Education Minister, Steve Maharey, is in complete denial.

“In August 2005 the principal of Wesley Intermediate was reported in the Central leader as saying that of their 160 pupils, a quarter came to school without breakfast and with no lunch. Rotorua’s Western Heights Primary, told today of their pupils’ hunger. I’m sure there are many other schools like this across the country.

“Given confirmation from Wesley Intermediate and Wesley Primary that there’s a problem, and given further confirmation today, why is Helen Clark quibbling over figures?

“These denials and obfuscation over this serious issue show how out of touch Labour is.

“You’d think they might have the good grace to congratulate the businesses who are backing our kids.

“I won’t be surrendering to Labour’s bullying.”

ENDS

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