Urgent Debates Declined — Primary Industries, Ministry—Suspension of Meat Exports to China

I have received a letter from the Hon Damien O’Connor seeking to debate under Standing Order 386 the cessation of the importation of New Zealand sheep and beef meat into China as a result of actions by the Ministry of Primary Industries and the failure to adequately respond to these issues. This is a particular case of recent occurrence involving ministerial responsibility. However, applications for urgent debates are required to be lodged at least 1 hour before the House sits. The member did not meet the deadline with this application. However, in any event, the House will today continue with the Budget debate. This provides another means for the House to discuss the matter. In these circumstances there is no justification for setting aside the business of the House. The application is therefore declined.