Andrew Little

Leader of the Opposition

6 March 2017

English continues to dither over Super

The Prime Minister is fuelling more uncertainty over National Superannuation after another day of confusing and vague comments, says Labour Leader Andrew Little.

“On Saturday he talked about a ‘reset’ for super, but wouldn’t be drawn on what that meant. By Monday he was ruling out changes to entitlements.

“What will tomorrow bring? A rise in the age of entitlement from 65? This drip feed of options is irresponsible.

“It’s just more poor leadership from Bill English, just like his approach to the housing crisis. His dithering is creating unnecessary anxiety over something he needs to be absolutely clear about because it affects the lives of so many.

“It’s one thing to be uncertain about what’s going to happen. It’s another thing to say let’s have a debate about it without actually putting the case for change.

“I’m absolutely clear about that. The argument to lift the age from 65 just doesn’t stack up. I’ve spent 20 years working with people who struggle to get to 65 now before they retire because of the physical nature of their work; that hasn’t changed.

“Labour’s policy is very clear. There will be no change. A Labour Government I lead will keep the age of entitlement at 65 and we will re-start contributions to the New Zealand Superannuation Fund.

“It’s time for leadership on superannuation; just don’t expect it from the Prime Minister,” says Andrew Little.

ends

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