David Shearer
Labour Leader

12 July 2013

Kiwis hit with cost of living triple whammy

“Kiwi families have been hit with a triple dose of bad news in the last 24 hours, with petrol prices, power prices and food prices all jumping sharply,” says Labour Leader, David Shearer.

“Just in time for the school holidays, petrol prices went up four cents a litre to $2.26.9 for 91-octane. That’s on top of the July 1 three cent increase courtesy of the Government hiking up petrol tax.

“The latest power price data shows domestic power prices rose by 2.2% in the last three months, which means the average household will pay an extra $50 a year.

“And the cost of food rose by 2.1 per cent in June – 50 per cent faster than in June 2012 and June 2011. In fact, it was the biggest single monthly food price increase since National pushed up GST in October 2010.

“At the same time wage growth under National is low and house prices are rising further and further out of reach of first time buyers.

“Families are feeling the financial squeeze in all directions. Is it any wonder so many people feel like they just can’t get ahead under this government?

“Labour has policies that will make a real difference to people’s lives. We’ll lift the minimum wage to $15 an hour and champion a living wage. We’ll encourage investment in to job-creating businesses, rather than speculation on the Auckland property market. And our NZ Power plan will cut hundreds of dollars off the average power bill and restrict future price rises.

“John Key’s out of touch with the reality of life for struggling families in New Zealand. It’s time for a hands-on government that’s not afraid to make the changes need to help Kiwis get ahead,” says David Shearer.

ENDS

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