3642 (2026). Steve Abel to the Prime Minister

Written Question

Published date: 23 Feb 2026

Metadata

Document type:	Written Question
Parliament number:	54
Question number:	3642 (2026)
Question asked:	09 Feb 2026
Member asking:	Steve Abel
Portfolio:	Prime Minister
Minister replying:	Rt Hon Christopher Luxon
Answer received:	17 Feb 2026
Status:	Question Answered
Reply type:	Reply
Document ID:	WQ_03642_2026
Document guid:	2d2081ed-e69c-4645-b003-4879f55dfbdd

3642 (2026). Steve Abel to the Prime Minister: Was the Prime Minister aware that the Cook Islands and the United States were in discussions regarding a framework for co-operation on critical minerals, if so, when was he first informed?

Rt Hon Christopher Luxon: As Prime Minister, I regularly request and receive advice from officials on a range of matters relating to my Prime Minister portfolio, including from the Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet (DPMC). In my capacity as Prime Minister I have received advice from officials relating to international developments on the critical minerals framework and, was advised on discussions with the United States of America in November 2025.