Overwhelming opposition to asset sales

The first day of public hearings into the Government's plans to partially sell off the four state owned energy companies has seen almost every submitter oppose the idea.

Students, former politicians and social justice advocates all opposed the Bill in front of a parliamentary committee today.

Molly Melhuish, representing Grey Power, says the Bill will see power prices increase.

"I see no advocates, in particular the companies or the major electricity users, coming to this to make any submissions because I believe the industry participants have a direct line to the Government and that's how this Bill happened anyway."

And opposition MPs have labelled hearings on the Government's partial privatisation plan a farce.

Public submissions started today, with individuals given just five minutes to speak and answer questions from MPs, and organisations 10 minutes.

Almost all appearing so far have opposed the move.

Labour MP Trevor Mallard was shocked to hear of the time limits.

In an unusual move, MPs and members of the public all stood in unison today during hearings into the Government's plans.

Megan Solole from Stand Up, a new social movement, was one of many people to speak out against the partial privatisation plans.

She asked everyone in the room, including MPs to stand up if they were against the plans.

She then had a message for those who support the legislation - telling them they'll be known as "SKIs" - or "Selling our Kids Inheritance".

Photo: NZ Herald