Simon Power National Defence Spokesman

27 January 2004

Final bill for new Army brand tops $100,000

The Government is wasting over $100,000 on a new brand for the Army while it is plagued by embarrassing equipment breakdowns, says National's Defence spokesman Simon Power.

Today the Government finally told Mr Power that the full cost of consultation and development of the new brand was $108,750.

"For Defence Minister, Mark Burton, to justify changing the 'brand' because the traditional crest is not strong enough is absurd.

"But to spend over $100,000 to do it is irresponsible," says Mr Power.

"This money would have been better spent on making sure our C130 Hercules were kept in better condition, so they do not break down in the middle of missions.

"During the height of humanitarian efforts in Niue recently, a C130 Hercules was embarrassingly stuck on the island with mechanical problems.

"And this was not an isolated incident. Over the past two years our Hercules have been grounded with similar problems a number of times.

"Our defence spending is a disgrace. If Labour won't spend more on our Army, then they should, at least, make sure the money they do spend is spent well.

"The hardworking and highly skilled members of our armed services deserve better," says Mr Power.

Ends

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