5 March 2003 Media Statement

Budget 2003 to be delivered on May 15

Finance Minister Michael Cullen will present his fourth budget – Budget 2003 – on Thursday, May 15.

Dr Cullen made the announcement today in Parliament during debate on the 2003 Budget Policy Statement.

The budget will reinforce the government’s reputation as a careful and competent fiscal manager and will address four priority areas:

- higher living standards for all through growth and innovation, including initiatives to develop, attract and retain skills and talent and to increase New Zealand’s global connectedness;
- supporting a productive and cohesive society through investing in health, education and social services and through the establishment of a Commission for the Family;
- reducing crime and the impacts of crime; and
- investing for the future through a broad-based capital programme and through the partial pre-funding of New Zealand Superannuation.

ENDS

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