How often did NZ political parties agree on bills in the last parliament?

Compare party bill voting from the last parliament.

Children, Protection—Government Actions

Wednesday 10 August 2011 Hansard source (external site)

Wagner9. NICKY WAGNER (National) Link to this
to the Minister for Social Development and Employment

What is the Government doing to improve outcomes for vulnerable children?

BennettHon PAULA BENNETT (Minister for Social Development and Employment) Link to this

This Government has a plan for vulnerable children, and has already taken more action on their behalf than this country has seen in decades. For example, in the last Budget we announced a comprehensive support package for children in State care, who are some of the most vulnerable children in New Zealand. And last month I released the Government’s green paper, which will be a catalyst for long-term change.

WagnerNicky Wagner Link to this

Has the Minister had any feedback on these changes?

BennettHon PAULA BENNETT Link to this

Yes. There has been significant support from the public and professionals, but a deafening silence from the Opposition. There are two possible reasons why the members opposite were struck dumb last night in the estimates debate, refusing to take even a single call on Vote Social Development, which represents more than 30 percent of all Government spend. Either they completely agree with everything that was in the May Budget for social development, or—

SmithMr SPEAKER Link to this

Forgive me, but I am not sure that whether the Opposition chooses to speak in a debate is a matter for which the Minister is responsible. If the Minister wishes to provoke disorder, it is a pretty effective way to do it. I am not sure that it is very helpful.