Wednesday 14th Jul 1999 Rodney Hide Media Release -- Economy

ACT Finance Spokesman Rodney Hide today said that Bill English's commitment to sell TVNZ, New Zealand Post and other state assets was welcome news.

"Taxpayers are carrying a huge burden in state assets that are under performing and are risky investments. There's no advantage to taxpayers or television viewers in having Tony Ryall representing their shareholding in TVNZ.

"The downside is considerable. Taxpayers will have to carry the can over the Hawkesby fiasco. They are also wondering why TVNZ sold their shares in SKY at $7 million below the best offer. "It's about time Bill English detailed policy that's good for the whole country, rather than simply focusing on short term political expedience.

"Michael Cullen has attacked Bill English for following ACT's proposals from last year. We're just pleased that ACT is doing its job in keeping National honest to their principles.

"Instead of just bleating on the side lines, Michael Cullen should get on and put out his costed proposals for what Labour would do if they were ever in Government." said Rodney Hide. ENDS

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