The New Zealand Taxpayers’ Union says the new National Party leader’s comments on tax cuts are concerning, and that tacking to the left on tax would be a mistake.

Simon Bridges was quoted by Stuff saying, ‘ultimately, the first point is you don't do tax cuts while you're still trying to do a good job in health and education. We need to do a strong job on those social services that are fundamental to New Zealanders' lives, and lifestyles.’

Taxpayers’ Union Executive Director Jordan Williams says, “The National Party, as a centre-right party, should understand that tax cuts are a cause of prosperity. Simon Bridges seems to think they’re a reward that can only be granted when public services are perfect.”

“Using flaws in public services as an excuse to delay tax cuts is an endless game. There will always be ways to improve our health and education systems, but tax cuts are very beneficial.”

“In fact, raising people’s real incomes is the most reliable way of improving people’s welfare. Dollar-for-dollar, tax cuts will have a far greater effect than social spending.”

“Simon Bridges would do well to remember that the tax burden on New Zealanders has steadily increased over the last seven years due to tax bracket creep. Taxpayers are overdue for a break.”

ENDS

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