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PM's Presser Audio 16/5/11: Budget
PM's Presser 16/5/11: Wait 'Till Thursday
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At his post-cabinet press conference PM John Key trailered the budget, which will be released on Thursday.
He said the budget "screams responsibility" and has achieved no increase in nominal spending, allowing the Government books to come into surplus sooner, with a lower peak national debt. The budget forecasts will project strong growth in jobs and wages.
Savings have been signalled through changes to the Kiwisaver scheme, Working for Families and student loans as well as promised initiatives for public sector savings. Budgets in health, education and justice will be maintained.
Other topics included issues between Fiji and Tonga, local government insurance and financing, and new ACT leader Don Brash's open letter of resignation letter from the National party. Key said the letter was written by fromer National and now ACT advisor John Ansell. Key also described Dr Brash and his position in the letter as "hard core".
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