Bill English MP
National Party Finance Spokesman

1 November 2008

Clark betrays most needy Kiwis

National Party Finance spokesman Bill English says Helen Clark should explain why Labour’s ‘promise and hope’ job loss package fails to cater for the most needy New Zealanders.

“Labour’s ‘promise and hope’ jobless package only benefits couples with two incomes. There’s nothing extra for the working sole parent who finds themselves in a tough situation and nothing extra for single income families. Helen Clark should explain why those people don’t deserve more help in an economic downturn.”

Mr English says Helen Clark’s criticism of National’s programme is empty rhetoric. Reports today suggested Helen Clark is trying to ‘pull the wool over voters' eyes by giving the impression anyone made redundant will benefit from its package. That is not the case’.

“National’s transitional relief package is part of a comprehensive plan to smooth out the sharp edges of the recession for the hardest hit Kiwi families. It’s a balanced approach alongside our fully-funded tax cut policy to help those who are in work.

“For Helen Clark to be challenging National’s numbers is absolutely laughable.

“Helen Clark can’t – or won’t – tell us how Labour is paying for the 30 or so spending promises that Labour has made since the PREFU.”

Mr English says National has provided a set of fiscal projections that start lifting New Zealand out of deficit sooner.

“National did make some choices. Labour won’t tell us how it’s going to pay for its promises until after the election.

“National has a plan to kick-start growth through smart infrastructure investment, raising educational standards, untangling red tape, and disciplined Government spending with a real focus on frontline service delivery.

“When Labour’s not distracted by sideshows and dirt digging, their only plan is a spending plan.

“It’s time for a fresh approach.”

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