New Zealand First Opposes Immigration Legislation

New Zealand First has prepared a minority report opposing the Immigration Amendment Bill, which is being reported back to the House today.

Associate immigration spokesperson Dail Jones said the party opposed the legislation because it allowed for continuing high levels of immigration and created the opportunity for corruption.

“The number of new residence permits should be in the vicinity of 10,000 – not the 45,000 (+-5,000) planned by the Government. New Zealand simply cannot keep absorbing these high numbers without a serious impact on our social and physical infrastructure.

“The new system proposed by this legislation can also be used in a discriminatory or racist manner and it is also open to corruption.

“Immigration officers could use the powers in the legislation to issue unreasonable and unnecessary conditions on permits.”

Mr Jones said New Zealand First supported an infusion of overseas skills and expertise but not while the Government failed to train and improve the skills of our own people.

“Priority should be given only to immigrants who have the skills and qualifications necessary to further regional economic and social goals.”

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