Feds asks progressive leader not to support ETS

Federated Farmers president, Don Nicolson, along with a delegation of farmers, met with Progressive Party leader, Hon Jim Anderton last night and asked his party not to support the current Emissions Trading Scheme Bill (“ETS”).

“With the way the numbers are potentially falling, Mr Anderton could be the king maker. If he voted against this Bill it could make all the difference,” Mr Nicolson said this morning.

“Like the rest of New Zealand, agriculture will be impacted by any scheme from day one through increased input prices. We are very concerned that New Zealand is rushing into legislation without thinking it through and not fully taking into account the adverse impacts on consumers, the economy and agriculture.

“New Zealand agriculture continues its focus on being efficient and working the land in a sustainable way. Farmers are naturally environmentalists. But New Zealand needs time to continue efforts to find scientific solutions that help enable farmers to become even more efficient in a practical and economical way.

Mr Nicolson said the Federations was asking all party leaders to reconsider their support for this bill. Meetings were being held with NZ First leader Winston Peters at 4pm today and the Maori Party leadership tomorrow morning.

“Mr Anderton has been a very strong supporter of Agriculture and we will continue to work well with him as Minister. This is an opportunity for him as a party leader to exercise his democratic right to make a difference by not rushing this Bill.”

Mr Nicolson said Mr Anderton had indicated in their meeting that he would consider the request by Federated Farmers.