There’ll be frustration in National’s Botany campaign today after prime minister John Key admitted that national Standards are facing problems, Labour’s Botany candidate Michael Wood says.

“John Key made it clear today that he no longer sees the scheme as a vote-winner. The NZEI says that John Key's admission --- that the scheme hasn't gone as smoothly as planned and that the first year has effectively been a trial --- is a significant victory for the thousands of parents, teachers, principals and academics who have expressed deep concerns.

“But National’s Botany campaign has heavily featured National Standards.”

Michael Wood said National should now withdraw its campaign material highlighting National Standards.

“Even the National Party leader doesn’t believe their own hype.

“Meanwhile parents are faced with back to school costs, including books, materials and uniforms that cost more because of National’s 15% GST, while wages haven’t kept up with the cost of living,” Michael Wood said.

ENDS