National rubbishes claims it neglected govt books

Wednesday, 2 May 2018, 4:19 pm
Article: RNZ

7:07 pm on 1 May 2018

The National Party leader says any claims the party left the government books in a mess when it handed over the reins are rubbish.

Simon Bridges said the government was looking for someone to blame after over-promising at the election. Photo: RNZ / Rebekah Parsons-King

The coalition government is already pulling back on its promise to fully implement a $10 reduction for GPs visit from the 1 July, blaming National for larger than expected deficits.

In a speech today Finance Minister Grant Robertson said it would take some time for the government to rebuild public services after years of "neglect".

Ministers have also talked about funding shortfall surprises across a number of portfolios.

Simon Bridges said they were looking for someone to blame after over-promising at the election.

"The books were there for everyone to see, I mean we have financial responsibility legislation in this country, it makes quite clear where things are at - they knew that, they actually got a lot of money, they've got $10 billion more in borrowing, they've got more revenue."

© Scoop Media

RNZ

New Zealand's public broadcaster, providing comprehensive NZ news and current affairs, specialist audio features and documentaries.

Radio New Zealand is a Crown entity established under the Radio New Zealand Act 1995. Radio New Zealand News are vital elements in our programming, providing impartial news and information to New Zealanders every day. Radio New Zealand (RNZ) provides listeners with exciting and independent radio programmes in accordance with the Radio New Zealand Charter.

Contact RNZ

• Website - www.radionz.co.nz
• Twitter - @rnz_news
• Facebook
• Link - Contact RNZ