Media Release
27 August 2003

Storm Clouds Gathering

New Zealand First is warning New Zealanders not to be sidetracked by political diversions and to heed the ominous economic signs.

“If ordinary New Zealanders struggling with soaring house prices, up 14% overall and by more than 40% in some areas, need reminding of the end of the golden weather then a July trade deficit of $471m should do it,” New Zealand First leader Winston Peters said.

“While our Government organises huis on beaches, promotes republicanism, and continues its politically correct behaviour modification programmes it ignores the fundamentals of a good economy. With export values having fallen by almost 10% it is past time for the Government to stem the domestic demand inflamed by high immigration and promote the export economy by providing the conditions under which our innovators and entrepreneurs can thrive.

“While Australia has over 70 mechanisms for export growth New Zealand only has an export credit guarantee scheme that, without one successful applicant, is as successful as a coalition between Richard Prebble and Bill English – absolutely disastrous.

“Unless we can rapidly grow the size of our economy then we cannot rebuild our infrastructure and have the quality education and health systems enjoyed by the first world. Unless we attend to the red tape and compliance costs confronting our businesses our economy cannot thrive. New Zealanders should be calling for their Government to urgently address these issues and to back-off its behaviour modification paranoia,” Mr Peters said.

ENDS

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