PRESS RELEASE
24 May 2012

National Should Change the Colour of Their Shirts

“New Zealand is like a frog in a pot slowly cooking to death” says Colin Craig leader of the Conservative Party. “The frog can save itself, but only if it’s prepared to put the energy and effort into decisive action.”

“Labour could have delivered this budget. National has once again failed to make the changes necessary to control social spending we can’t afford. It is clear National doesn’t understand the concepts of “limited government” or “living within your means.” National should really change the colour of their shirts.”

“For over two decades we’ve been running in the red. With record numbers of New Zealanders leaving for greener pastures, a nearly 20% drop in exports in the last 12 months, and the imminent sale of income earning assets, we needed a budget to inspire us, which this does not.”

“Calling it a zero budget is misleading; let’s remember last year they called it a zero budget, yet spending still increased by 6.4 billion dollars. New Zealanders are tired of the government spending money we don’t have.”

“Once again the government has side stepped cutting expenditure, and reducing the size of government. It is all very well to avoid the difficult decisions, but there comes a time to do what’s right.”

“The households and businesses of New Zealand have made substantial adjustments, with the majority being able to balance their books, and reduce their debt. New Zealanders know how to get it right, it’s about time the government did too.”

“This budget is an exercise in timidity. We need a government with the courage to make bold fiscal decisions.”

“The budget tells us two things: firstly that National has no plan, and secondly, that they know how to use smoke and mirrors in an attempt to hide the fact they’re muddling through. Rhetoric simply doesn’t put money in the bank account.”

“While disappointing, the government deserves credit for new money headed towards science and innovation. It’s not enough to save us, but on an otherwise bleak horizon it’s helpful” says Mr Craig.

ENDS

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