The latest hysterical outburst from Bill English raises serious questions about his ability to understand simple arithmetic, Labour finance spokesperson Michael Cullen said today.

"The outgoing Treasurer seems mystified by Labour's promise to spend an extra $175 million on health in our first year in Government, rising to an extra $275 million in the second year and $375 million in the third - a total of $825 million.

"It's quite simple Bill. The figures, announced when Labour's health policy was released a month ago, were based on the government's projected expenditure.

"Since then, the Treasurer's colleague Wyatt Creech has found an extra $525 million over three years to put into health. As usual, whatever Labour can do, National can do half as well.

"Labour will use that provision and another $300 million on top to restore the public health system. We will also be able to reinvest savings achieved from reducing bureaucracy and putting patients ahead of profits.

"When Mr English manages to work out these few simple calculations, he might instead turn his attention to National's coalition partner - because Act's slash and burn approach spells disaster for the provision of public health care in New Zealand," Dr Cullen said.

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