28 July 2013
 
Greens welcome Labour moves on housing policy
 
The Green Party today welcomed David Shearer’s announcement about restricting overseas buyers access to the New Zealand housing market.
 
“We welcome Labour getting on board with another Green Party solution that will make housing more affordable for New Zealanders,” said Green Party Co-leader Dr Russel Norman.
 
“This is a sensible measure that will help reduce demand and lower prices meaning more New Zealanders can own their own home.
 
“We were very pleased when Labour adopted our policy about a capital gains tax excluding the family home, and likewise we are pleased that Labour have got on board with this policy. This is about making housing affordable for New Zealand families.
 
“Housing shouldn’t be a place for speculators it is a place where people live.
 
“Many other countries like Australia, Hong Kong and Singapore have similar policies.
 
“Restrictions on overseas buyers are a good first step but by itself will not fix the problem.
 
“We need a suite of measures both to restrict speculation but also measures to help New Zealand families into their own home.
 
“Our Home for Life package delivers meaningful changes that will move more New Zealand families into an affordable home and provide better housing for those who rent,” said Dr Norman.
 
Home for Life Package: http://www.greens.org.nz/housing
 
ENDS

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