Urgent Debates Declined — Government Transport Package

I have received letters from the Hon Richard Prebble and the Leader of the Opposition, seeking to debate under Standing Order 376 the Government’s announcement of a transport package. This is a particular case of recent occurrence involving ministerial responsibility. However, although the announcement is a significant one, I note that an important part of the package is conditional on an agreement being reached with Auckland authorities, the resolution of outstanding funding, governance and regulatory issues, and the passing of legislation to give effect to governance changes. The legislation is planned for April next year. In those circumstances, I do not consider that the announcement requires the immediate attention of the House today.

Foreshore and Seabed