I don’t often agree with Winston Peters, but I do on this.

I’m pleased to finally see one of our leaders asking some hard questions about Fonterra’s proposed sell-off of its consumer brands. His observation that Fonterra is “giving it [its iconic brands] away” and that the question needs to be asked – does the “long-term agreement” for three, four, or ten years? Whatever the number, the clock will stop and New Zealand’s milk will become just another in a long line of milk jugs.” This captures the concern I have. It’s the same concern I have been trying to convey through various articles and opinion pieces, with limited success.

I still hope the horse hasn’t completely bolted and we can have a serious discussion about this. Fonterra is not just another company, and the decisions about what to sell or keep should not be entirely for the board and shareholders to decide. Fonterra is undoubtedly our most valuable strategic asset and one that has enjoyed unique monopoly rights and advantages granted by the government, i.e., you and I. Where are missing in action Prime Minister Luxon and Finance Minister Willis in this whole debate?