Wellington, May 17 NZPA - A big union and political lobbyists will tomorrow launch a petition calling for a parliamentary inquiry into the pay rates and employment in the nation's fishing industry.

Wellington, Nov 2 NZPA - It is up to MPs to decide whether to use their parliamentary perks to take their spouses overseas, but if they do they should realise the media will report it, Prime Minister John Key says.

Sue Bradford's resignation bombshell has shocked many members of not only the Green Party but all those who wish for a better and more socially just society too.

Yesterday, Larry Baldock presented his latest citizens initiated referendum petition wording for approval by the Clerk of the House of Representatives.

'Bad boys, bad boys, what 'ya gonna do? What ya gonna do when they come for you?'

That is the well known reggae-style theme to the popular reality trash TV show 'Cops'. Perhaps it could be better applied to our current Parliament where bad boy behaviour has come to the fore again lately.

As New Zealand prepares to hold a referendum on smacking, KATE CHAPMAN of NZPA looks at how other citizen-initiated votes fared.

President Barack Obama has now served in the Oval Office for just over 100 days as America's first African-American chief executive.

Wellington, Feb 12 NZPA - The New Zealand dollar appeared to be on hold overnight, while the greenback rose against the euro and yen as investors remained uncertain about the size and scope of a stimulus package in the United States.

By Maggie Tait of NZPA Wellington, Dec 9 NZPA - The 49th Parliament opened for business this morning amidst pomp and ceremony, but only moments into its first session the gloves were off as MPs reverted to attack mode. The contrast between ceremony and reality was stark.

Wellington, Oct 2 NZPA - The New Zealand share market closed higher having posting some healthy gains just ahead of the close. But brokers said the market is treading water until the US financial bailout jumps all of its hurdles.