The Taxpayers’ Union is cautioning Prime
Minister John Key for his comments that the Government would
pick up the tab for increased costs of medicines as a result
of a Trans-Pacific Partnership free trade agreement.
Taxpayers’ UnionExecutive Director, Jordan Williams,
says:
“While the Taxpayers’ Union takes no position
the TPP, we are disturbed that the Prime Minister would
suggest that consumers may get a free lunch courtesy of the
Government. Mr Key needs to be reminded that Government
money is inherently taxpayer money. When he says the
Government will meet the shortfall, he’s really saying
that the Government will tax Kiwis more to meet the
shortfall."
“Whether the extra economic activity
resulting from the TPP makes the cost worthwhile is
something that can only be assessed once the final text is
agreed and made public. On behalf of taxpayers though,
we’re taking the opportunity to remind the Government that
it is taxpayers, not pixies, who pay any increased cost of
medicines resulting from TPP.”
“The Taxpayers’ Union
supports trade agreements that reduce hidden taxes such as
tariffs and we look forward to seeing what results from the
negotiations in
Hawaii."
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