11 February 2004

Hon Jim Anderton MP, Progressive Leader

Progressive policies deliver lowest unemployment rate in world

Progressive Leader Jim Anderton has welcomed the news today that the unemployment rate is at its lowest level in a generation. This puts New Zealand at the top of the OECD developed nations, a key government goal achieved.

"The number of jobs created in New Zealand surged a further 1.6 per cent in the December quarter highlights again the benefits of five years of progressive government promoting regional, industry and economic development.

"Over 264,000 new jobs have been created in New Zealand since the coalition government was elected in late 1999. 76,000 people are unemployed, down from over 120,000 five years ago.

"Those who have been critical of our 'jobs machine' approach should try to explain this extraordinary period of successful employment activity and how this government has got so 'lucky'.

"That reminds us why we need to keep on delivering policies that propel companies' growth and that add to further productivity gains for our economy so we can carry on delivering forward-looking education, housing and social policies," the Progressive leader said.

The Progressive Party is campaigning in this year's election to lower the company tax rate and further increase investment in policies to make us more productive so that New Zealand continues its 5 year streak of out-performing the Australian economy.

Progressive is also campaigning to cut into the debt levels of tertiary graduates who work in New Zealand.

ENDS

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