The Labour Party will make a last-ditch attempt to introduce strict limits on the sale of sweetened alcoholic drinks after the Government backed down on its plan to ban high-strength alcopops.

The Govt has two weeks to decide whether to continue with plans to partially sell Mighty River Power, or postpone the move until early next year.

Labour has asked tough questions about Kiwirail after it won an injunction preventing Radio NZ from reporting on its leaked business plan.

Increasing the minimum wage and paid parental leave to a minimum of 18 weeks are recommended in a report on how New Zealand can improve the quality of life for children.

Labour MP David Cunliffe returned from a five-week trip around Europe like some new-age Arnie, fizzing at the bung with his dimpled chin as smooth as a baby's bottom.

An online petition opposing the legalisation of same-sex marriage has been signed by nearly 20,000 people in its first week.

The gay marriage bill nearly has the numbers to pass its first stage, despite New Zealand First's attempt to derail it.

National MP Maggie Barry's snipe at a childless rival has been ridiculed on social media.