Nats call for refugee quota cuts

National has called for a cut in the refugee quota following reports that eight out of 10 refugees are still on a benefit after being here for five years.

National MP Tony Ryall said the Government was intent on bringing in refugees who could not get jobs and who in turn brought in their families, who also went on the dole.

"The cycle carries on; the taxpayers pay," Mr Ryall told Parliament. "The answer is a cut in the number of refugees and getting them into a job."

New Zealand has a refugee quota of 750 a year.

Immigration Minister Paul Swain said National wanted New Zealand to turn its back on its duties as an international citizen.

He said the problem of getting refugees into jobs was being addressed.

Act MP Richard Prebble said the problem was that the Government "insists on taking illiterate Afghani camel-drivers".

Deputy Prime Minister Michael Cullen asked if there might not be one job for Mr Prebble's problem refugees.

"Has any thought been given to training an illiterate Afghani camel-driver for the vacant position of leader of the opposition?"

The question was ruled out of order.

- NZPA