Prime Minister Christopher Luxon has defended prioritising a rates cap over a social media ban for under 16s - despite the cap not coming into effect until 2029.
By Lauren Crimp of RNZ
Labour yesterday confirmed it would support the social media ban through to select committee and urged the government to hold the first reading before the election.
But with just three sitting weeks left and a busy legislative agenda, Leader of the House Louise Upston said there was not enough time.
However, there will be a first reading for the rates cap legislation before Parliament rises.
Luxon defended that call.
"The rates cap is about actually helping people with the cost of living," he said.
It was pointed out to Luxon that during his and Education Minister Erica Stanford's announcement of the social media ban, they highlighted the seriousness of the problem detailing stories of children learning to self harm on the platforms - but were choosing to push ahead with a rates cap instead.
Two South Island mayors say the Government's 4% cap on rates increases could affect public services as councils face additional costs from new reforms. (Source: Breakfast)
"Well, we've got a legislative agenda, we've got a range of issues we have to deal with as a government," he said.
"A rates cap, cost of living, major concern for New Zealanders, it's really important we do it, we said we would do it, it's a programme we're following through, and we will follow through. Have a good day," he said as he walked away from reporters.
Stanford said the decision was up to Luxon and Upston.
"There are lots of other things that I think are really important that I can't get through either," she said.
"I've got a reading of my immigration bill that we're not going to get done either, which I'm also really passionate about, so there are a few things we've just run out of time for."
Upston said many ministers had been asking for their legislation to be completed before the election.
"We've got a wide range of priorities and a legislative log jam that we're focused on getting through," she said.
Labour leader Chris Hipkins said he was disappointed the ban would not progress yet.
"They made a very compelling case for it on Monday, it sounded like it was passionate and heartfelt when they were doing that presentation in the Grand Hall, and then 24 hours later, they're now saying it's not a priority for them.
"We've given them the numbers to get this bill past its first reading before the election, I think they should take that opportunity."
Getting the bill to select committee would give the public plenty of time to have their say on it, Hipkins said.
SHARE ME