Economic Transformation
A strategy for securing New Zealand's future prosperity and forging a unique New Zealand national economic identity was released by Economic Development Minister Trevor Mallard. It includes a detailed action plan, comprising around 50 initiatives so far, aimed at raising living standards for all Kiwis. Mr Mallard said government and businesses needed to work together in order to transform New Zealand's economy to one that is more productive, innovative and export-led. Key areas of work include: improving the business and national innovation system; internationalising business; reviewing business tax and regulatory frameworks; improving linkages between firms, Crown Research institutes and Tertiary Education institutes; improving capital markets, savings and investment; affordable, high-speed ICT infrastructure; securing supplies of gas and electricity; transport infrastructure investment; increasing foundation skills, workplace management and leadership skills; up-skilling the workforce; developing a vision and plan for Auckland; investing in Auckland and addressing climate change, sustainable water and land management issues. Mr Mallard said ongoing work is needed to ensure New Zealand can respond to the constantly emerging new global challenges.

Fuel saving labels
Energy and Climate Change Minister David Parker this week released a discussion document on a mandatory fuel economy labeling scheme for vehicles at the point of sale. The proposal aims to give consumers more information about the fuel efficiency of vehicles they're considering buying, as a way of reducing greenhouse gas emissions and improving air quality. The scheme would apply to all cars (new and used) at point of sale through registered motor vehicle dealers. Consideration is also being given to how it could be applied to Internet sales via sites like TradeMe. David Parker said vehicle use is one of the major contributors to New Zealand's greenhouse gas emissions, and vehicle emissions also have a negative impact on air quality, urban amenity, and human health. Consumers choosing fuel-efficient cars will also save money at the pump. Associate Transport Minister Judith Tizard said Vehicle Fuel Economy Labeling complements other government measures, such as the recent smoky vehicle checks.

Possible changes to fireworks
Bad behaviour during this year's Guy Fawkes season has shown the necessity for tighter controls on the sale and use of fireworks. Environment Minister David Benson-Pope said he would meet with Fire Service and Police officials to get a formal briefing on this year's season. He wants to see sensible regulations protecting the right of New Zealand families to enjoy a safe and responsible Guy Fawkes with neighbours and friends, but that also prevent the kind of behaviour that can ruin it for everyone else. After seeking a formal briefing on the incidents during this year's fireworks season, the Minister said he would then discuss any proposals with colleagues. Any changes would need Cabinet approval but would be in place well before Guy Fawkes 2007, he said.

Review of liquor laws
The government will review the restrictions on the supply and sale of liquor to under-18 year olds. Justice Minister Mark Burton and Associate Health Minister Damien O'Connor announced the review just ahead of the Sale of Liquor (Youth Alcohol Harm Reduction: Purchase Age) Amendment Bill being defeated in Parliament 72 votes to 49 this week. Mr Burton said the issues around underage drinking debated over the past few weeks were important ones that had significant impacts on communities and young people. A focused review was needed to look specifically at the effectiveness of current restrictions on the sale and supply of liquor to under 18 year olds. Some initiatives aimed at reducing alcohol related harm across all groups including youth, such as licence controller qualifications for bar managers, local liquor bans and the Police Alcohol Action Plan, are already in place. The review would look at the impact of these and other initiatives. Mr O'Connor said a complete picture was needed to properly address New Zealand's binge drinking culture. The review could suggest changing existing policies, enhanced enforcement, improved education programmes or new laws.

PM to visit Europe, attend APEC
Prime Minister Helen Clark has embarked on a 12-day trip that sees her meeting with several European leaders and attending the APEC leaders meeting in Hanoi. Helen Clark meets with British Prime Minister Tony Blair, German Chancellor Angela Merkel, French President Jacques Chirac, and Italian Prime Minister Romano Prodi during her visit to Europe, which has been timed around the dedication of the newly-built New Zealand Memorial in London. Helen Clark said the meetings provide an opportunity to press New Zealand's view of the need for real progress on Doha Round negotiations at the World Trade Organisation. Climate change is another issue of considerable interest to the European nations and New Zealand. With UN-led climate change talks underway in Nairobi, they will discuss the international efforts to counter climate change. This year's APEC Meeting in Viet Nam will have important issues to discuss - uppermost in the minds of most leaders will be North Korea's nuclear test. APEC will provide a valuable opportunity for leaders to exchange views on this development.

STOP PRESS: Auckland stadium
Cabinet Minister Trevor Mallard announced the government's preference for a new stadium based at Auckland's CBD waterfront. More details about the announcement are available online.