29 Apr 2009

ASEAN trade bill passes its first reading

4:08 pm on 29 April 2009

A bill enabling a free trade agreement between New Zealand, Australia and the 10 ASEAN nations has passed its first reading in Parliament.

The bill passed by 107 votes to 14, with the Greens and the Maori Party voting against it.

The bill will now be considered by the Foreign Affairs, Defence and Trade Select Committee.