Labour's campaign spokesperson Pete Hodgson said today that Roger Sowry's continuing attempt to scapegoat a beneficiary whose only desire is to have an income-related rent she can afford for her family is despicable.

"I am disappointed that Christine Rankin has authorised Winz to depart from political neutrality and join the circus created by Mr Sowry on this issue.

"It was after all Mr Sowry who alleged that she could not be getting everything she was due. Winz now confirms that she is.

"None of this addresses the basic issue which is that this woman has difficulty in Auckland's highly-priced housing market finding affordable and adequate accommodation for her family.

"Labour's policy of income-related rents will make sure that these children, who are part of New Zealand's future, get access to the secure and affordable home that should be their birthright in this country."

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