A fundamental responsibility of any government is the defence of the nation. As an independent and free nation New Zealand strongly values and defends democratic and human rights. As New Zealanders, we rely on trade for our wealth, and we must encourage free trade and fair access to the markets and sources of raw materials on which our future depends. Particular emphasis should be given to the Asia-Pacific region, where six of our top ten trading partners lie.

Principles

• Defend and promote New Zealand's interests through independent representatives and the United Nations
• Promote international peace, human rights and the pursuit of freedom
• Assist in the peaceful resolution of Asia-Pacific issues by offering intermediary facilities, resources and expertise
• Retain New Zealand's nuclear-free status and international leadership on disarmament issues.

United Future will:

• Promote a regional agreement on South Pacific issues
• Establish New Zealand as a trusted intermediary, whose diplomatic and trade officials are beyond reproach and regularly called upon
• Keep New Zealand nuclear-free and actively strive to achieve a world free from nuclear weapons
• Emphasise our developing relationships with Asia and the Pacific Rim, while recognising historical links with other parts of the world
• Petition the United Nations to establish an independent tribunal to examine the issue of unsustainable third world debt. Investments by these nations in human development should take priority over debt repayments
• Establish overseas aid at 0.5% of GDP (with possible higher targets reviewed on an annual basis)
• Accelerate lobbying for the removal of all landmines
• Strengthen the trade wing of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade
• Fully support regular international and regional meetings (eg. APEC and CHOGM) and support a bid for New Zealand to host the World Trade Expo within the next ten years

Defence

Central to United Future's vision is an independent and appropriately armed nation, respected for its stability and willingness to assist those who seek our counsel.

United Future will:

• Reach an All Party Accord on ten year defence and capital equipment funding which will allows more efficient purchasing
• Appoint an independent commissioner to ensure that the Defence Department maintains its required outputs
• Designate a defence group, which will be available to the United Nations at short notice. Ensure this group is given priority for equipment and staffing
• Ensure Defence Forces receive reasonable funding to meet and carry out core functions.

United Future Parliamentary Office: Bowen House, Lambton Quay, Wellington
Email: Phone: (04) 471 9410