The National Party says it would support a quick decision by the Government to allow Singapore Airlines to own more of Air New Zealand.
National's Finance spokesman Bill English says Air New Zealand needs to have a range of options for financing new aircraft for its subsidiary Ansett Australia.
"Singapore Airlines, alreadya supportive shareholder in Air New Zealand, is a gilt-edged world-class company who could contribute expertise as well as capital.
"This is a test for the Government's foreign investment stance. The Government has formed a Closer Economic Partnership with the Singapore government, the owner of Singapore Airlines. Helen Clark is in the region right now promoting New Zealand as a destination for foreign investment.
"The Prime Minister firmly rejected the last request from Air New Zealand for an increase in the 24.9 per cent ceiling on foreign ownership, probably because of pressure from Jim Anderton and the Alliance.
Mr English said allowing Singapore Airlines to increase its state in Air New Zealand is in the national interest.
