15 Jun 2014

Labour still supports NZ's UN seat push

6:46 pm on 15 June 2014

The Labour Party says it will continue with the Government's push for New Zealand to be elected to the United Nations Security Council if elected.

David Shearer announced Labour was putting up a rival candidate for Speaker.

David Shearer. Photo: RNZ

The vote on whether New Zealand will have a seat at the council for a year is expected to be held in October, the month after the election.

Labour's foreign affairs spokesperson David Shearer said the money being spent on the bid was worthwhile as it would give New Zealand a seat at the top table when major decisions were made.

He told TVNZ the bid should be above politics.

Mr Shearer said he had discussed with the Government the possibility of both parties together attending a crucial UN meeting after the election, if the election result was indecisive.