Christopher Luxon corrects claim regarding Green Party allegations

Prime Minister Christopher Luxon has walked back claims made by a minister regarding the Green Party's involvement in a climate change complaint. Luxon suggested the allegations originated from the media, though the claims were actually made by Trade Minister Todd McClay on Wednesday.

On Wednesday, Todd McClay alleged the Green Party was "joining with foreign actors to attack New Zealand" regarding a complaint filed with the European Commission. The complaint suggests New Zealand is failing to meet climate commitments within its free trade agreement with the European Union. McClay provided no evidence for this claim.

Green Party co-leader Chlöe Swarbrick denied any involvement in the new complaint. She stated that McClay provided "zero evidence" to support his "bizarre claim". Swarbrick added that the government was attempting to cover its tracks instead of taking responsibility for climate action.

Luxon stated he was not concerned about the international complaint because New Zealand upholds its free trade obligations. Former British high commissioner Laura Clarke told RNZ that the legal action puts New Zealand's 100% Pure brand at risk.

Where reports differ

• A spokesperson for the Prime Minister clarified that Luxon was referring to media questions and reporting from Wednesday, rather than the media raising the issue for the first time on Thursday.

Compiled from reports by The Post, 1News and NZ Herald.