Hon David Carter MP National Party Agriculture Spokesman

27 March 2006

Anderton fails the test over farm dog microchipping

It's disappointing for the rural community that Agriculture Minister Jim Anderton has been rolled by a junior minister over the plan to microchip farm working dogs, says National Agriculture spokesman David Carter.

Mr Carter is reacting to reports that farmers have lost the battle to exempt farm working dogs from the microchipping requirements.

"Mr Anderton accepted this portfolio acknowledging he had a lack of knowledge about the industry, but saying his number three ranking meant he could deliver," says Mr Carter.

"This decision to ignore farmers' protests shows he's a total failure in the portfolio.

"Labour's number three ranked minister has been rolled by the 18th ranked in Cabinet.

"Farmers will be extremely disappointed by this decision. I think there are going to be great difficulties for the authorities in enforcing this law, and in getting co-operation from both farmers and rural district councils."

ENDS

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