[asia-apec 1524] Sutton on Singapore-NZ FTA

[APEC Monitoring Group]

Singapore treaty text agreed
Press Release New Zealand Government 18/08/00 18:16:00

A text for the Closer Economic Partnership agreement with Singapore has been
agreed, Trade Negotiations Minister Jim Sutton said today.


Mr Sutton said he would now submit the text and a national interest analysis
to Cabinet and ask for authority to for the Closer Economic Partnership
agreement to be signed.


After Cabinet has considered the agreement it will be tabled in the House
and referred to the Foreign Affairs, Defence, and Trade select committee for
consideration.


He said that in the past there had been no debate once the select committee
had reported back to the house on earlier trade agreements, but there could
be a debate on the agreement with Singapore.


"Personally, I would be happy if there was a debate."


ENDS