PM Post Cabinet Press Conference on Ponytail and Surplus

Monday, 4 May 2015, 5:33 pm
Article: Francis Cook

The Prime Minister stated today that two weeks in advance of the 2015 budget, he was happy with the progress his government had made. He said he expected further solid growth and that wages were increasing faster than inflation. He said the budget would focus on support for the most vulnerable New Zealanders.

Key acknowledged that reaching surplus would take longer than expected, but he is confident the government is on track to reach surplus next year.

Key also announced that Prince Harry will be arriving in New Zealand on Saturday and encouraged the public to get out and see him.

Questioned about the recent revelations on a Cabinet Minister and his brother gaining name suppression, Key said there was no conflict of interest in the way the case was handled. The advice he received was to not stand the minister down.

Key was reluctant to answer questions about the ponytail incident with Amanda Bailey but said he would seek legal advice using personal funds.

The FTA agreements had gone well in the Gulf States, with only Saudi Arabia remaining “cautious” and “guarded”. Key, however, is confident negotiations will progress.

ENDS

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Francis Cook

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Francis studied History, gaining a first class honours in 2014. He is interested in politics, music and popular culture. His thesis looked at nuclear themes in Japanese film history.

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