PM accepts Turia's stand on foreshore

By KEVIN TAYLOR, political reporter

Associate Maori Affairs Minister Tariana Turia's stand against supporting the Government's foreshore and seabed plan has been given the stamp of approval by Prime Minister Helen Clark.

She said before entering a party caucus retreat at Premier House in Wellington yesterday that Mrs Turia had provided "a way forward" for the Government and for herself.

Mrs Turia confirmed last week that she would abstain from voting for the legislation when it is tabled but would not vote against it.

Helen Clark said: "Obviously one prefers everybody to vote for things but as I said ... I'm not in the business of crunching the last vestige of individuality and spirit out of people.

"She's provided a way forward for the Government and for herself, and I've advised her to carry on with the good work she does."

The Prime Minister said Mrs Turia was not voting against the Government.

"She has chosen to abstain."

Asked whether other ministers could get away with doing the same thing, Helen Clark said the issue of what were acceptable boundaries for ministerial behaviour was "entirely a matter for the Prime Minister".

"And I've exercised my judgement.

"You should be aware that this is not a portfolio issue for her. The foreshore and seabed issue is being handled at the highest levels."

Mrs Turia, the MP for Te Tai Hauauru, and Tainui MP Nanaia Mahuta had previously refused to pledge their support for the proposed legislation. Both had said they would be guided by their electorate.

Mrs Turia's abstention ensures that the Government, with United Future's support, has a majority - regardless of the stance Ms Mahuta takes.

Mrs Turia refused to comment when she arrived at the retreat.

National Party leader Don Brash has accused the Prime Minister of operating two sets of rules based on race, pointing out it would be unacceptable for Tertiary Education Minister Steve Maharey to abstain from voting on an eduction policy.

United Future has indicated provisional support but has not reached a final position yet on the foreshore and seabed policy, as it is waiting to see the legislation.

One United Future MP noted before the party's two-day caucus retreat which started yesterday that the "devil would be in the detail".