Labour congratulates the new Ministers in the National led Government who have a huge challenge ahead, says Labour Deputy Leader Annette King.

“It’s a privilege to be a Minister and I wish them well because they have a big responsibility to deliver hope and opportunity to New Zealanders.

“But this is not the rejuvenation Bill English promised. It’s a combination of the conservative, vindictiveness and mateship.

“His rejuvenation is one new Minister in Cabinet and three Ministers outside Cabinet, two of whom, Bennett and Dean, have been in Parliament 11 years already.

“And he’s demoted his rivals Judith Collins and Jonathan Coleman.

“Bill English denied there was a housing crisis and now he doesn’t even want to have a Minister of Housing. It’s the first time under a National Government there has not been a Minister of Housing.

“National has managed to abolish the problem because they’re so embarrassed about their lack of action.

“He’s kept one of his best mates, Nick Smith, in charge of Building and Construction, stripping away the title of Housing Minister.

“But that doesn’t change a thing really. The troika of English, Paula Bennett and Smith have failed to help young New Zealanders into affordable homes.

“The cosmetic change to Smith’s title changes nothing. More and more New Zealanders will see the Kiwi dream of owning your own home slipping away.

“Any hopes that Bill English would bring a fresh new approach have been dashed. It’s all a bit underwhelming really.”

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