Media statement
Embargoed to 3pm
Friday, 25 January 2008

UF promises better deal for students this year

UnitedFuture leader Peter Dunne says there will be a better deal for students this year.

Speaking to this afternoon’s student rally at Parliament, Mr Dunne said part of UnitedFuture’s confidence and supply agreement with the government related to improved access to student allowances, and that he expected to see that delivered in this year’s Budget.

“We are presently discussing the details with Ministers and student representatives, and we will ensure student leaders are fully consulted before final decisions are made,” he said.

Mr Dunne said that UnitedFuture was committed to the principle of a universal student allowance being introduced over time, and would work with whatever government was in power to achieve that.

“A starting point might be to increase availability of the accommodation supplement,” he said.

Mr Dunne told the rally that as Minister of Revenue he would be introducing a student loans Bill to Parliament early this year to make “some technical adjustments” to the scheme.

“But it will also extend entitlement to an interest-free loan to students enrolled with a New Zealand provider who are studying overseas as part of a formal exchange programme.

“The change will be backdated to apply from 1 April 2007,” he said.

ENDS

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