key throws out a couple of 'likely's' to fend off maori

One thing about key is that he is consistent.

"Prime Minister John Key today announced the controversial Foreshore and Seabed Act is likely to be repealed.

Mr Key told reporters today a final decision was still likely to be months away."

Likely - a funny word - if something is likely to happen - will it happen?

"Maori Party co-leader Pita Sharples – whose party sees the act's repeal as a touchstone of its relationship with National – told an Anglican Church hui last week that the Government would scupper the act after months of consultation."

Sucker punched again pita - don't trust forked tongues.

"The Foreshore and Seabed Act was written in response to a Court of Appeal case that suggested iwi able to prove continuous customary use of the foreshore and seabed might have a claim to freehold title.

The act stopped Maori seeking title through the courts, but opened the door to compensation. However, it was attacked by Maori as a massive land grab, causing protests and giving birth to the Maori Party."

Well, what can i say. i'm not counting my chickens just yet. the fundamental principle for me is that it is up to the crown to prove that maori don't have customary rights, not the other way round. When that is agreed to then we can sort the rest of the policy out.