Unfortunately our man in Wellington Simon Power has got foot-in-mouth disease. There are some encouraging aspects to his speech (text below) but an obsequious kow-tow to the Yanks isn't going to win him any votes, even in the pro-defence faction.
Still, for all you chaps overseas: come home! Vote National!
Nats will send army wherever US goes
08 May 2004
By HANK SCHOUTEN
New Zealand's armed forces would be sent wherever Australia, the United States or Britain wanted them, under a new policy announced by National.
"Without reservation we will support our close allies, Australia, the United States and Britain when and wheresoever our commitment is called upon," party defence spokesman Simon Power said. "New Zealand has been an ally of these nations throughout the 20th century. We recommit to doing so in the 21st," he said in a speech to National's central regional conference.
In the past 20 years, New Zealand had allowed its defence relationship with its traditional allies to slide "because we have not been prepared to match our allies' expectations. We must show we can be relied upon". He said: "Post-September 11, Australia stepped up to the plate . . . Australia unhesitatingly joined her allies the UK and the US in the fight. It was a principled policy decision.
"New Zealand must be seen as a credible combat-ready nation. Ready to defend our country in a physical attack, ready to defend our freedom from dangerous regimes, ready, willing and able to cooperate with allies who share our values."
Australia spent more than $20 billion, or 2 per cent of gross domestic product, on defence while New Zealand spent less than $2 billion, or 0.8 per cent of gdp. National would be looking for at least 1 per cent, he said.
He suggested a third frigate could be a priority for the navy, and New Zealand could work with Australia to develop an air strike capability.
He criticised Government plans to spend $500 million on a multi-role ship and patrol craft which would do work for customs, conservation, fisheries, maritime safety, police and other agencies. "The first priority for a naval force is defence."
The air force had been "reduced to a maritime search and rescue, civil defence and Helen's personal transport".