Common sense has prevailed. New Zealand First’s English Language Bill passed the first reading in parliament yesterday.

“This bill provides clarity and certainty in legislation of the official status of the English language in New Zealand.” – Rt Hon Winston Peters

This Bill will simply make English an official language of New Zealand. So naturally it has been called a 'waste of time', 'racist', 'divisive', and one Green Party co-leader even calling it 'performative politics'.

The opposition could barely string a sentence together as they tried to shout our bill down. But the vote went through without so much as a ‘nay’ – clearly our common sense policies are having a ripple effect across other Members of Parliament.

Watch Winston's fiery first reading speech as the legislation was introduced to the house: Winston Peters: We are affirming the value of English as a shared means of communication

Philipa, we have heard from New Zealanders that it is important that the language we all speak has the appropriate designation and is given the respect that Te Reo Māori and New Zealand Sign Language already have.

New Zealand First will not shy away from difficult conversations. We will not accept double standards. And we will continue to stand for common sense.

New Zealand First is the only Nationalist party.

We are defending our nation’s sovereignty.

We are protecting our country’s name.

We are protecting our flag.

We are protecting our language.

Showing once again we are a party of action, this bill delivers on another election and coalition commitment. And our English language promise is now officially on the way to being delivered.