Radio New Zealand - Te Reo Irirangi o Aotearoa

Waikato-Tainui supports Maori Party stand on SOE sales

Updated at 8:07 pm on 22 November 2011

The chair of the Waikato-Tainui executive supports the Maori Party's stance not to sell shares in state-owned assets - but has again said the tribe will be a buyer if they're on offer.

Maori Party co-leader Dr Pita Sharples says his party is opposed to National's plan to sell up to 49% of four state-owned energy companies.

Dr Sharples says his party could support the policy if iwi groups are given priority access to the shares.

Head of Te Arataura, Tukoroirangi Morgan, says the caucus is looking out for the needs of the people it represents.

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