17 May 2007

NZ First Imprint On Budget Clear

New Zealand First Leader Winston Peters says Budget 2007 represents something of a watershed for New Zealand First's influence.

"From incentives to boost savings, through to a reduction in business tax; from support for research and development through to further support for exports and Export Year; from more than $400 million for eldercare through to extra funding for the healthcare of children, New Zealand First's imprint on this Budget is clear," said Mr Peters.

"This Budget is a recognition that the good ideas New Zealand First has campaigned on for more than a decade are now becoming realities.

"Having a pathway to compulsory savings, and a cut in business tax, along with a range of other initiatives added to delivering higher superannuation, further funding for Maori Wardens, as well as movements towards dedicating road taxes to developing transport infrastructure, are huge gains for ordinary Kiwis.

"Budget 2007 is a recognition that this is an MMP parliament and the answers must come from more than one dominant party.

"While New Zealand First would go further towards compulsory savings and would have introduced adjustments to tax thresholds, there are nonetheless many pleasing developments and New Zealand First's mark is unmistakable," concluded Mr Peters.

ENDS

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