The prime responsibility of government is to keep its citizens safe. We are a small nation in a world where conflict never permanently goes away. Strong alliances with countries which share our democratic values are the only logical option for New Zealand. We do not have the resources to act in an isolationist manner.
Yet New Zealand has embarked on a policy of underinvestment in defence that has severely limited our ability to defend our country and trade routes. As a country, we are increasingly unable to take part in our regional responsibilities and share in the collective defence of our corner of the Pacific. Currently New Zealand spends one per cent of GDP on defence, compared to the Australians’ three per cent of their somewhat larger GDP.
ACT does not take for granted the peace and security we currently enjoy. Preserving peace requires commitment, time, resources, and mutual support. A strong Defence force should be supported by a strong Reserve force. This will give our Defence force greater capability and flexibility.
Our current policy regarding nuclear-propelled ships is a relic of a bygone era. United States surface ships have not carried nuclear weapons since 1992, and yet we still deny them access. There is no principled objection to nuclear technology in New Zealand. Even David Lange was not opposed to nuclear technology, only nuclear weapons. It is irrational to use radioactive technologies such as X-rays but reject having a vessel propelled by nuclear power in a New Zealand harbour. This position has a cost, in that it offends our most important allies. ACT is the only party to want to engage in a debate that isn't dominated by hysteria and deliberate confusion.
In the last parliamentary term, with ACT’s pressure and support the government:
• Carried out the Defence Review 2010. ACT played a leading role in this review.
• Undertook Companion Studies on New Zealand’s Defence Industry, Youth Programmes, and Voluntary National Service
ACT will keep working for stronger defence. A Party Vote for ACT is a vote to:
• Work to rebuild our defence relationship with Australia and the US, including allowing nuclear-powered (but not nuclear armed) warships to visit.
• Merge the MOD and NZDF as recommended in the Hunn Report.
• Increase government spending on defence so that our Armed Forces are properly equipped and trained to operate with our allies. These units could be structured around a stable long-term defensive strategy. They would provide successive governments with a range of options in the event of a crisis, here or overseas.
• Rebuild the NZ Defence Force to 30,000 personnel (including 20,000 Reserves) over 5 years through new initiatives including Voluntary National Service.