Media Release

19 December 2006

Brown Welcomes Minimum Wage Increase

New Zealand First labour spokesperson Peter Brown says the ten percent increase in the minimum wage from April next year will keep New Zealand workers on shore and encourage economic growth.

"Raising the adult minimum wage to $12 an hour by the end of 2008 is part of New Zealand First's confidence and supply agreement with the government. The rise in minimum wage to $11.25 an hour takes us a step closer to our target," said Mr Brown.

“What employees and working families really want is a fair day’s pay for a fair day’s work. Too many hard working New Zealanders are still earning well below $11 and not sharing in the benefits of economic growth.

"The rise in the minimum youth rate from $8.20 an hour to $9 an hour is also an important move because it will encourage young New Zealanders to stay here to work.

"Higher wages will improve living standards for low-paid New Zealanders. This is a very welcome step, and New Zealand First is looking forward to achieving other initiatives for growth, including the development of a new tax policy to benefit business," concluded Mr Brown.

ENDS

© Scoop Media