Andrew Little
Leader of the Opposition
MEDIA STATEMENT

26 May 2016

Labour Bill would back Kiwi jobs

The Government’s $40 billion of buying power would go towards backing Kiwi businesses and jobs under a Labour Member’s Bill which will be debated by Parliament, Leader of the Opposition Andrew Little says.

“My Bill – which was pulled from the ballot today – will require the government of the day to take into account the number of jobs created in New Zealand when spending the $40 billion budgeted for Crown procurement every year.

“With unemployment at 144,000 – 40,000 higher than when National took office – we must ensure good jobs are kept in New Zealand, not sent offshore.

“The Our Work Our Future Bill is about investing in the economy and making sure New Zealanders get their fair share.

“We need to back our local businesses to develop skills and innovations to successfully win tenders and create jobs here in New Zealand. For many small businesses the lack of government contracting experience is a hindrance when they try to break in to international markets.

“This plan creates opportunities not only for local companies to grow, but to compete on the international stage. It’s a win-win for all.

“If National are serious about growing the economy and boosting incomes for middle New Zealand they will back my Bill,” Andrew Little says.

ENDS

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