Labour quick to attack

Press, Volume CXI, Issue 32542, 27 February 1971, Page 9

Labour quick to attack

(New Zealand Press Association)

WELLINGTON, February 26. The Labour Party yesterday attacked the Government at the first possible opportunity in the 1971 Parliamentary session.

As Parliament briefly convened in the main debating chamber after the official opening by the Governor-General (Sir Arthur Porritt), Labour Party spokesmen rose to give notice of motions condemning the Government and its Ministers.

Mr W. W. Freer (Lab., Mount Albert) moved “That this House records its most grave concern that the National Party Government still refuses to tackle the basic causes of cost and price inflation, and financial instability, with the result that serious cost and price increases will continue.”

Mr R. J. Tizard (Lab., Pakuranga) moved “That this House views with alarm the constant threats of the Minister of Finance (Mr Muldoon) to substantially increase taxation and Government charges again this year.”

Mr W. E. Rowling (Lab., Buller) moved “That in view of the deteriorating prospects for New Zealand trade in traditional markets, this House views with alarm the continuing reluctance of the National Government to appoint an effective full-time Minister in the vital field of overseas trade, and their failure to provide effective leadership and direction to meet the nation’s future trading needs." National Party members responded with notices of motion commending Government actions.

Mr L. F. Sloane (Nat., Hobson) moved that the House commend the Government on its efforts to assist the fishing industry. The Acting Government Chief Whip, Mr L. W. Gandar (Nat., Manawatu), moved that the House support the Government policy on education and commend the Minister (Mr Taiboys) for his achievements during the first year he has held the portfolio.

Mr T. F. Gill (Nat., Waite-

mata) moved that the House commend the Government for its progresive policy on communications, both domesticaliy and internationally.