27 March 2008 Media Statement

English brings Joanna Average back from the dead

After last year having to admit the numbers that were used to create his fictional Joanna Average were completely wrong, Bill English has brought Joanna Average back to life, but without any more honesty in the process, Finance Minister Michael Cullen said.

Mr English ‘released’ figures today comparing tax paid on the average wage. These were the same figures Mr English released late last year.

“Last year Bill English got his numbers wrong and has since removed his Joanna Average case study from his website,” Dr Cullen said.

“This time, he has made some of the same fundamental errors. Most glaringly, he forgets tens of thousands of people in the 33 per cent tax bracket are receiving Working for Families – a package which Mr English would love to repeal.

“Real household incomes have increased by 25 per cent under this government. Mr English can develop any scenarios he wants, but that is the overall picture.

“Labour will announce personal tax cuts in May’s budget. These will be responsible tax cuts that will be a dividend for the workers who have driven strong economic growth in recent years.”

ENDS

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