Cullen Must Act to Boost Economy

Rodney Hide Wednesday, 26 October 2005 Press Releases - Economy

ACT Leader Rodney Hide said today it was vital for Finance Minister Michael Cullen to set out a clear plan for the government's economic management over the next three years.

"The economy is tanking, interest rates are rising, inflation is up and business confidence has sagged. Meanwhile, the new government is drifting without clear vision, direction or objectives.

"Now Cullen is saying there's nothing he can do for 600 people about to lose their jobs at Air New Zealand. That's after he spent $885 million to "save" the airline. Let's hope there's no other businesses in his sights to save.

"Businesses need to know what they can expect from the new government. Michael Cullen must spell out what he intends to do over the next three years.

"To boost the economy, he should be getting on top of excessive government expenditure, cutting taxes and slashing the red tape that is driving business nuts.

"The state of the economy means it's time Cullen actually delivered," Rodney concluded.

ENDS

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