King has head down learning about transport

New Transport Minister Annette King wants to be properly briefed before speaking out on her new portfolio - a political red-hot potato in Auckland.

Her office last night indicated it was unlikely she would comment publicly on transport policy until at least next week.

The Ministry of Transport has suggested five ways to ease Auckland's traffic jams. The options range from four road-charging schemes, with daily fees of up to $6 to drive in certain areas from 6am-10am, to a parking surcharge of $10 a day in the central business districts of the region's four cities and Newmarket. They could cost some motorists $2500 a year. Aucklanders have reacted overwhelmingly negatively to the proposals.

Mrs King's ability to keep health issues out of the headlines during the past two parliamentary terms, when she held that portfolio, has, however, convinced the Government she will be a safe pair of hands for the transport job. Her people management skills should also be an advantage during inevitably heated public debate.

She is already the Police and State Services Minister.