The New Zealand Labour Party absolutely condemns the hijacking of one of our major television networks, TV1, by a foreign agent. We also outright condemn the illegal detaining by the North Korean Government of two New Zealand citizens. Both of these actions are a breach of New Zealand's national sovereignty, and must be met with swift action by the New Zealand Government.

We are aware that these two New Zealanders have been arrested and charged with crimes against the state. We do not know of any more details at this stage. The Labour Party extends its deepest sympathies to the families of these two individuals. There is no doubt that this is a profoundly difficult time for their friends and loved ones back home.

At this stage, we must be careful about making assumptions about the unfolding situation. It is important that diplomatic means be instituted for the safe return of these two New Zealanders, and to avoid escalating this situation unnecessarily.

The Labour Party offers to the government our resources and assistance wherever necessary to bring about an end to this state of affairs. We also urge the Government to review communication systems in New Zealand, to ensure that no other forms of communication may be subject to attack by foreign agents.

Our thoughts remain with the individuals detained in North Korea and their families. We hope for a speedy resolution to this situation.