18 Sep 2013

Joyce rejects pressure suggestion

5:30 am on 18 September 2013

Economic Development Minister Steven Joyce says he did not pressure three groups to stop them joining a campaign for lower internet prices.

The Coalition for Fair Internet Pricing, which was launched last week, is made up of several groups including Consumer New Zealand and Internet New Zealand.

Steven Joyce.

Steven Joyce. Photo: RNZ

Mr Joyce on Tuesday named the three groups he spoke to before the coalition's launch as Vodafone, the Northern Employers' and Manufacturers' Association and Federated Farmers.

He says he had heard they were interested in being part of the campaign and wanted to be sure they had the other side of the story.

Asked if his approach was political pressure or interference, Mr Joyce said it was not. Rather, he would characterise it as explaining the situation, he said.

Mr Joyce says all three groups decided not to participate in the campaign.