MPs put aside their politics following Kahui deaths

Politicians from all parts of the spectrum last night called a temporary truce to discuss family violence following the deaths of twins Chris and Cru Kahui.

The cross-party Beehive meeting organised by Maori Affairs Minister Parekura Horomia included a briefing for MPs on work already under way to reduce family violence.

It is likely the group will meet again in around two weeks to look at what action can be taken.

National MP Judith Collins emerged from the hour-long meeting to describe it as "very positive" and said she had an open mind about the cross-party initiative.

MPs from all parties also expressed a willingness to put aside politics - at least for now - for the cause.

Act MP Heather Roy acknowledged later that there may be times when parties will not agree on what is being put forward as a solution. "But it's important to keep talking," she said.

All parties in Parliament were represented at the meeting, except for the Maori Party, whose representatives had prior commitments.

Mr Horomia said MPs agreed there was more to do to reduce family violence, and they had "made some commitments to each other in relation to continuing".