3. Hon MARK GOSCHE (Labour—Maungakiekie) Link to this
to the Minister of Immigration
What progress has been made on the Government’s immigration reform programme?
Hon DAVID CUNLIFFE (Minister of Immigration) Link to this
I can report that the Government’s immigration change programme is based on three pillars, all of which are making good progress. Firstly, I have recently introduced the Immigration Bill to the House. This bill, combined with the Immigration Advisers Licensing Act, will provide a solid legislative base for the immigration system now and into the future. Secondly, a core policy framework has been established to assist in the review of key immigration policies. For example, I have recently made well-received announcements on the new active-investor category and changes to the skilled migrant category. Thirdly, the Immigration Business Transformation project will help us to attract the migrants we need, and keep out those we do not want, by enhancing the operations of Immigration New Zealand.
Hon DAVID CUNLIFFE Link to this
I have seen an editorial in the New Zealand Herald headlined “Law secures balance on borders”. That editorial goes on to state that the outcome of the bill “is a law that strikes a far better balance in the cause of ensuring this country can quickly and efficiently determine who comes and goes.”
Rt Hon Winston Peters Link to this
Does this change in policy reflect comments made over many years by New Zealand First in respect of the inappropriateness of a whole range of immigration policies pursued by both Labour and National Governments, and is that last comment from the New Zealand Herald really it flying a white flag and apologising for calling us xenophobic and racist?
Hon DAVID CUNLIFFE Link to this
I am pleased to note that I have had indications from a wide range of parties that they are likely to support the Immigration Bill, and I would like to express the appreciation of the Government for the support. I can confirm that the New Zealand First Party has indicated its support, and we appreciate the liaison we have had with that party over the years. Unfortunately, I cannot take responsibility for all of the editorials in the New Zealand Herald.
Hon DAVID CUNLIFFE Link to this
I have seen a range of positive reports from business and refugee groups, amongst others. I quote from a Business New Zealand press release: “A strengthened, updated and fit-for-purpose immigration law that upholds border security while facilitating the arrival of skilled, talented people is in the interests of business as well as in the general public interest.” I have also seen endorsements from the Refugee and Migrant Service, which said “plans to tighten up the appeal system to just one independent body would be a good move.”
I seek leave to table an editorial from the New Zealand Herald from 10 August 2007—
Hon DAVID CUNLIFFE Link to this
I seek leave to table a press release from Business New Zealand, headlined “Immigration reform deserves careful scrutiny”, praising the bill.
Hon DAVID CUNLIFFE Link to this
I seek leave to table a media article from Television New Zealand that quotes positive statements from the Refugee and—
Madam SPEAKERRt Hon Winston Peters Link to this
I seek leave to table a very insightful document called the confidence and supply agreement between New Zealand First and the Government.