Hon Phil Goff
Leader of Labour Party

1 September 2009 Media Statement

Goff reiterates offer to Key on ETS

Labour leader Phil Goff today said he is still ready and willing to meet with Prime Minister John Key to negotiate a lasting emissions trading scheme that has the broad support of Parliament.

“I wrote to John Key on August 11 offering to meet to try and break the impasse that has developed around the ETS, and am still awaiting a response,” Phil Goff said.

“Labour is keen to find a workable and durable scheme that is balanced, fair and serves to protect New Zealand’s image overseas.

“I was encouraged by Mr Key’s reported comments today that he sees a meeting between us as a potential way forward.

“New Zealand needs an ETS that has broad support so it can last, gives certainty to everyone and results in meaningful cuts in our emissions.

"It is also vital for our international reputation and our trade – which we depend on to maintain our standard of living.

“Accordingly, I invite Mr Key to accept my earlier invitation that we work together to negotiate a lasting position.

“Labour’s position is set out in our minority report in yesterday’s Climate Change select committee report, and includes a wide range of options for amending the existing scheme,” Phil Goff said.

ENDS

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