July 2 2002

Labour’s Tertiary Policy Not Enough For New Zealand Or The Alliance

Alliance leader Laila Harré says Labour’s tertiary education policy will not turn the tide of student debt, and would have to be strengthened in any coalition the Alliance signed up to.

Restating the Alliance position, Laila Harré said although the Alliance would support Labour in Government it would not join Labour in Government without a much bigger education budget.

“Labour’s policy commits young New Zealander’s to long term indebtedness,” she said.

“Labour’s commitment to boosting eligibility to student allowances is far too vague.

“Unless the Alliance is in Government a universal student allowance will not be reinstated.

“The Alliance will only go into coalition with Labour if they go beyond the position outlined in their tertiary education policy and agree to a real plan to end student debt.”

Laila Harré said if Labour’s agenda goes unchallenged on this issue young New Zealander’s will be waiting forever for real movement on student debt.

“This is shaping up to be a major election issue.

“Only the Alliance is drawing a line in the sand over student debt and saying enough is enough.”

Ends

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