Govt breaking promise, say Greens

The Government's plans for mining on conservation land have been called a breach of its no assets sales promise.

Green party co-leader Metiria Turei said the minerals involved are owned by the Crown, but under the Government's plans they will be passed on to private interests for private gain.

Acting Prime Minister Bill English has dismissed the accusation, saying mining on Crown land is common practice and this Government does not regard it as a form of privatisation.

- NEWSTALK ZB