Katherine Rich National Social Services Spokesperson

29 January 2003

Support for welfare reform

National Social Services Spokesperson Katherine Rich says she supports Don Brash's call for reform of the welfare system.

"Many ideas will be floated during discussion as National develops its final welfare policy and Dr Brash's speech, which I had seen and supported before it was presented, has floated some.

"Dr Brash's speech suggests looking at the role of the unemployment benefit, but clearly states that the removal of any such support couldn't be done in isolation. There is no suggestion of a complete dismantling of the welfare system.

"I endorse Don's call for welfare reform and discussion of ideas aimed at reducing dependency and getting people back into work," said Katherine Rich.

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