19 December 2008 - Details of the make-up of the new National-led Government's Cabinet committees were announced today by Prime Minister John Key.

"A new development is the inclusion of support party Ministers as members of Cabinet committees," says Mr Key.

"I have received a report on the investigation into allegations concerning the use of non load-bearing timber for trusses and frames," says Building and Construction Minister Maurice Williamson.

19 December 2008 - Environment Minister Nick Smith today announced his decision to refer the Mighty River Power proposal for a 131-turbine wind farm at Turitea, near Palmerston North, to an independent Board of Inquiry.

19 December 2008 - Transport Minister Steven Joyce is urging motorists to take care on the roads this festive season.

18 December 2008 - Corrections Minister Judith Collins today visited Rimutaka Prison in the first official inspection of a New Zealand prison by a woman Corrections Minister.

18 December 2008 - Education Minister Anne Tolley today announced capital funding of $17.3 million for a new primary school in Queenstown, Remarkables Primary School.

18 December 2008 - The Government today reintroduced a Bill to the House that would make it harder for inmates to bring prohibited items into prison and commit crimes.

18 December 2008 - Social Development and Employment Minister Paula Bennett has welcomed the decision in the Crown's favour in the Child Poverty Action Group's case against the in-work tax credit.

18 December 2008 - On behalf of the Green Party may I congratulate you on your new role, Mr Speaker, and thank the Clerks office for its excellent management of the House this year.

18 December 2008 - The Greens are calling on the Government to make sure that their spending program over the next few years is one that actually improves the sustainability of the New Zealand economy and creates jobs in New Zealand.