Media Release

18 December 2007

NZ First Welcomes Rise in Minimum Wage

New Zealand First welcomes the Government’s announcement today of a further rise in the minimum wage which will see the minimum wage rise to $12 per hour next year.

“Raising the minimum wage to $12 per hour was a core part of New Zealand First’s confidence and supply agreement with the Labour Party,” said New Zealand First’s labour and industrial relations spokesperson Peter Brown.

“This follows on from the two rises in the minimum wage in March 2006 and April 2007 that were secured by New Zealand First, and further demonstrates New Zealand First’s commitment to improving the wages of our lowest earners.

“While pleased the minimum rate has been raised, New Zealand First will continue to advocate for annual increases in the minimum wage to ensure our lowest paid workers share in the benefits of any economic success,” said Mr Brown.

ENDS

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