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Lucky Numbers? PM Answers Questions on Convention Centre
Lucky Numbers? PM Answers Questions on Convention Centre Proposals, Gambling and Overseas Investment
Prime Minister's Post-Cabinet Press Conference - 23 April, 2012
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By Mark P. Williams
In today's Post-Cabinet press conference the Prime Minister summarised his trip to Indonesia and Singapore in terms of the Asia-Pacific region's importance for New Zealand markets and outlined his plans for the week ahead, including Anzac day. He then took questions on the Auckland Convention Centre, asylum for Afghan translators, Chinese investment in New Zealand, the NZ Dollar, and the Algerian custody case.
The PM was brusque in his responses to extensive questioning on the precise nature of the economic benefits the convention centre would bring. He argued strongly in favour of its being beneficial in terms of bringing higher-spending tourism to Auckland. He also stated that the centre would create around 800 permanent jobs in Auckland, approximately 500 part time and 300 full-time, in addition to the 900 shorter-term jobs created by its construction. He also spoke of the value of the centre's general input into the economies of Auckland and New Zealand, including inputs into transport and travel, and food and service industries.
The PM then took various questions on the Crafar Farms and the Overseas Investment Office, including whether he felt that there would be significant further investment from Chinese groups as a result. Other matters raised included the question of whether Afghani translators would be offered asylum in New Zealand in exchange for their service, and the current status of the Algerian custody case.
Selected Questions
-- The PM took a question on the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade's progress in dealing with the Algerian custody case
-- Asked his opinion on a recent negative comment about Australian Anzac forces he said he found them 'offensive'
-- The PM was asked about what additional measures he might undertake regarding the strength of the New Zealand dollar; he stated quite plainly that he does not believe in government intervention in such matters
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