5 November 2004

Hon Matt Robson MP, Progressive Deputy Leader

Progressive calls for coalition action on student debt

The Progressive Party is presenting a policy to its coalition partner to eliminate the student debt problem, says Progressive MP Matt Robson. The policy will be announced on Sunday.

"New Zealand’s economic and social development is being curtailed by student debt," Matt Robson said.

Research conducted by AC Nielsen on behalf of Study Link and the Inland Revenue Department chronicles the negative impact of student debt on home ownerships rates and on meeting companies’ workforce demands.

Their research shows that student debt levels are forcing new graduates overseas. That trend needs to be reversed.

"Over the next few weeks the Progressive Party will be launching education, housing and business policies so that New Zealand's impressive progress over the past five years under the coalition government continues.

"Social and economic development must go hand-in-hand. Getting families into their first homes, encouraging our qualified young people to work for New Zealand instead of going overseas, and removing barriers to doing business are all part of a Progressive package that recognises that fact," Matt Robson said.

ENDS

© Scoop Media