Max Brown, Cambridge.
Peters’ populist FTA response
Typically, the opposition to the New Zealand-India free trade agreement is a very simplistic, populist response from Winston Peters with his myopic vision focused on immigration and dairy products. An approach just to win votes, not in the interest of New Zealand Inc.
The truth is 95% of New Zealand exports to India will gradually face low or zero tariffs. There will be significant growth in trade for exports of sheep meats, wool, forestry, seafood, apples, mānuka honey, fruit, wine and industrial goods.
The FTA will also provide increased opportunities for New Zealand businesses in services, finance, education and the IT/digital trade.
Contrary to Peters’ scaremongering assertions, migration is limited and controlled to skills-based immigrants and working/student visas.
So Winston Peters needs to front up and quantify his claims about this FTA not being of benefit to New Zealand.
Andrew Williams, Taupō.
Slogans perceive threats
NZ First’s name has always bemused me. Who are we so concerned about besting? Now Brian Tamaki is encroaching on [Winston] Peters’ turf with his own slogan: “Keep NZ, NZ”.
I would like them to clarify exactly what they mean, and where they perceive these threats to our wellbeing are coming from.
Doug Hannan, Mount Maunganui.
Thanks for message of hope
Thank you for the most appropriate Christmas message I have ever read (Dec 24).
It is important for people to have a chance to read the message. They can choose how they respond, but at least they have the knowledge.
The message can sow seeds of hope. In moments of despair and if people are alone, they know who to cry out to.
It is important to bring hope and a solid rock on which to cling in times of trouble.
I wish you all a peaceful Christmas and hope you have an enjoyable holiday and rest.
S. Hansen, Hastings.
Clear explanation from ministers
Congratulations to the Herald and the 31 church ministers for publishing the Christmas article, “Exploring the profound identity of Jesus” (Dec 24).
The ministers have written a clear explanation that readers can understand. Then they can make a choice on whether Christmas can be meaningful.
B. Anderson, St Heliers.
Fables and superstition
Gloriavale leaders ban birthdays and treats on Christmas Day because “a Bible-based society has no place for many of the traditions and fables of western society, some of which are based on pagan superstition” (Dec 23).
Because the Bible is full of fables and superstition, I think the Gloriavale leaders are hypocrites.
P. Harlen, Mount Maunganui.