Parliamentary Oral Questions: Key Issues Addressed

In a recent session of oral questions, Members of Parliament engaged in detailed discussions on several critical national issues. This summary highlights the main points from the dialogue, focusing strictly on content directly drawn from the original proceedings.

Treaty of Waitangi Bill and Government Statements

Prime Minister Christopher Luxon reaffirmed his support for all government statements and actions during a session marked by scrutiny over the Principles of the Treaty of Waitangi Bill. The National Party has decided not to endorse the bill beyond its first reading, stating it will not become law without broader coalition agreement. In defense against criticisms from MPs like Tamatha Paul (Green), who questioned the government’s engagement with hīkoi participants, Luxon emphasized ongoing dialogues with Māori leaders as a key strategy.

Hon David Seymour encouraged public participation through submissions to the Justice Committee, framing it as an opportunity for a respectful national conversation on New Zealand's constitutional future under the Treaty principles. This initiative invites all citizens to contribute their perspectives until 11:59 p.m. on January 7th, providing a platform for diverse opinions.

Capital Infrastructure Investment

Associate Minister of Finance Chris Bishop outlined recent enhancements to the Public-Private Partnership (PPP) framework aimed at optimizing infrastructure investment. These changes are designed to leverage private sector expertise for improved project delivery and maintenance, receiving positive responses from industry leaders like Nick Leggett from Infrastructure NZ.

Despite differing views within its coalition, the government remains committed to fostering economic growth and productivity improvements through red-tape reduction and foreign investment reforms.

Contactless Payments in Auckland Transport

Minister of Transport Simeon Brown announced the introduction of contactless payment options across Auckland's public transport network. This initiative aims to enhance commuter convenience by providing more travel choices, with plans for national roll-out including expansions to Christchurch by early 2025 and other regions by the end of 2026.

Treaty Negotiations and Post-Settlement Issues

Minister Paul Goldsmith underscored ongoing efforts to strengthen relationships through continuous dialogues with iwi groups. He acknowledged concerns about the bill potentially affecting trust but emphasized constructive conversations as a priority. Criticism from former officials, like Hon Ginny Andersen referencing Christopher Finlayson's comments on the select committee process, was dismissed by Goldsmith.

Education and Curriculum Developments

Minister Erica Stanford reaffirmed her commitment to embedding Treaty principles within the education system, focusing on closing the equity gap and enhancing educational outcomes for all students. She addressed concerns about perceived removals of Treaty references from curricula by clarifying that these frameworks are still under development.

Opposition MP Hon Willow-Jean Prime raised issues regarding potential erasures of Treaty principles and questioned strategies to combat racism and discrimination in schools. Stanford defended her approach, highlighting initiatives like the Better Start Literacy Approach as evidence of progress in student achievement.

Crime Statistics and Law Enforcement

Minister Mark Mitchell reported reductions in overall victimizations by 3 percent this year, an increase in foot patrols by over 30 percent, and declines in specific crimes such as ram raids by 60 percent and aggravated robberies by 11 percent. While acknowledging ongoing challenges, he emphasized continued efforts to enhance public safety. The growth rate of gang membership has slowed significantly under the current government, with a recorded 1 percent increase this year compared to a 10 percent increase for the same period last year.

Māori-Crown Relations: Te Arawhiti

Hon Paul Goldsmith, representing the Minister for Māori Crown Relations, acknowledged ongoing efforts to strengthen relationships with Māori communities. He recognized existing disparities but stressed continued collaboration and improvement. Criticism from Hon Peeni Henare highlighted persistent issues like early mortality rates among Māori and their overrepresentation in the justice system.

Trade Agreements and Economic Growth

Minister Todd McClay discussed recent trade agreements with the UAE, which entered into force on May 1st, providing $46 million of tariffs saved for Kiwi exporters this year. The agreement delivers 98.5 percent tariff elimination immediately, rising to 99 percent after three years. Additionally, a high-quality trade agreement was concluded with the Gulf Cooperation Council in September, removing tariffs on 51 percent of New Zealand's exports to the Gulf on day one.

A significant delegation visit to China resulted in new agreements worth an additional $340 million in export revenue over the next three years. This initiative aligns with national goals of expanding international trade relations.