Hon Jim Anderton

Progressive Party leader

30 October 2008
Media Statement

NZ First voters should switch to Progressive to avoid wasted vote

Progressive leader Jim Anderton says NZ First voters are risking their party not being re-elected, and to support New Zealand ownership and a better deal for seniors, they should switch to Progressive.

He told a Grey Power meeting in Nelson today that if NZ First isn’t returned to parliament, its supporters' votes will be redistributed across all parties, including to National and Act.

“Since we both left our major parties, many older New Zealanders have swapped their support between Mr Peters and me, because they recognise we both have a strong policy on the concerns of senior New Zealanders. We both want to lift superannuation, improve health care and reduce power costs.

“But you have to ask yourself whether you are sure NZ First will be back. Even if you think Mr Peters is completely vindicated, you have to accept there is a chance he won’t be returned. I think, after nine terms, I will be.

 “If seniors want a strong voice in parliament, then you know that a party vote for the Progressives won’t be wasted.

"So if you can bring others from the Progressive team back to parliament with me this year, we can achieve more gains for senior New Zealanders: Cheaper power. Better access to dental care. We won’t let them sell Kiwibank. We won’t let them cut into super like National did last time.”

ends

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