Federated Farmers Waikato president and Fonterra shareholder Andrew McGiven says any restructuring of the co-op “would have to come from within Fonterra”.
“The only influence Shane Jones and the Government could have is on dairy industry legislation,” McGiven told Rural News.
Speaking at the National Fieldays last week, Jones took a huge swipe at Fonterra, saying it’s time for a restructure and the chairman John Wilson should “catch the next cab out of town”.
Wilson, who is up for re-election as a director this year, has been Fonterra chairman since 2012 and a director since 2003.
McGiven says Jones’ public call for Wilson to go was unbecoming of a government minister.
“It’s not a great way to endear yourself towards the business community and leaders of the country.”
Fonterra would not comment on Jones’ outburst.
