He says the New Zealand Government has decided to oppose moves to grant Taiwan observer status on the World Health Organisation because it would be a breach of the ‘One-China’ policy.

“Taiwan’s inclusion as an observer in the WHO is supported by the World Medical Association, the British Medical Association, and the New Zealand Medical Association, but that is not enough to change New Zealand’s attitude.”

“Even the United States Congress has expressed support for Taiwan being granted observer status, but New Zealand still continues to be the world’s most slavish adherent to the old-fashioned 1970s ‘One-China’ policy,” Mr Dunne says.

Mr Dunne says he finds New Zealand’s position humiliating and embarrassing.

“It is gutless in the extreme - China has only to click its fingers over Taiwan, and New Zealand jumps to obsequious attention.”

“The WHO is a non-governmental organisation dealing with diseases and health problems which know no international boundaries.”

“Taiwan’s inclusion as an observer would not imply any judgement on its legal status as a nation.”

“Instead of continuing to tug its forelock in deference to Beijing’s demands, New Zealand should support those international medical bodies and the United States Congress and push for Taiwan’s inclusion in the WHO,” Mr Dunne says.

ENDS