Monday, 29 November 2004

Dunne welcomes NZ First support

United Future leader, Peter Dunne, has welcomed the decision by New Zealand First’s deputy leader, Peter Brown, to join United Future’s campaign against the Civil Union Bill, reported back from select committee today.

It’s understood Mr Brown intends moving an amendment which would mean the Bill, if passed by Parliament, only takes effect after it has been subjected to a public referendum at the next general election.

“We’re pleased to welcome Mr Brown aboard as this Bill is subject to a conscience vote by all parties and it’s good to see our arguments against the Bill are having an effect on other MP’s.

“I’ll certainly be urging United Future MP’s to back the amendment, so that the people of New Zealand can their say.

“As opposition to the Bill rises, its supporters are getting increasingly desperate, as shown by the Bill’s sponsor, Associate Justice Minister David Benson-Pope, who was reduced to misrepresenting the Bill’s contents and United Future’s position on it last week

“Comments like Mr Benson-Pope’s are making many people question the validity of a conscience vote by MPs, which is why there is merit in Mr Brown’s call for New Zealanders as a whole to decide this issue,” said Mr Dunne.

ENDS

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