There is clear proof today from the Council of Christian Social Services that the Government's housing policies are hurting most low-income New Zealanders, says National's Housing spokesperson, David Carter.

"The Poverty Indicator Project, which surveys foodbank applicants, shows that income-related rents have done nothing to help the bulk of needy New Zealanders - those in private rental accommodation.

The report's findings that 'the majority of those (foodbank applicants) renting do so in the private market' and that 'a significant proportion of respondents are spending more than 50% of their income towards meeting their housing costs' makes a mockery of the Government's policies on housing.

It also makes a mockery of Charles Waldegrave's statement this month that the income-related rents policy has 'moved many families out of poverty' because it shows that many state house tenants who have received rent reductions are still needing foodbank services.

"Put simply, this Government is failing to deliver fairly on housing, and low-income New Zealanders are suffering as a result," David Carter said.

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