Leader of the Opposition Judith Collins says National’s ‘Demand the Debate’ campaign has received unprecedented support
since its launch on Sunday and has today released a video highlighting the effect the Government’s Ute Tax will have on
the rural sector.
“The Government’s Ute Tax unfairly penalises farmers, tradies and others who rely upon vehicles for which there is no
electric alternative,” Ms Collins says.
“Farmers helped New Zealand get through the Covid-19 lockdown and today their protests around the country demonstrate
how out of touch the Government is with rural New Zealand.
“Labour never campaigned on the Ute Tax and in fact was categorical in ruling out any new taxes. The rural sector along
with almost every New Zealander is being hit in the back-pocket through new taxes, rent increases and costs on
businesses.
“The stories we’ve received from New Zealanders since our campaign started five days ago has built a picture of people
feeling they are being left out and who want the debate.
“Today the rural sector is standing up and driving their tractors and utes through our towns and cities to send a clear
signal to Wellington that they won’t be walked over.
“The Government’s Parliamentary majority is not a mandate for Labour to promote its ideological wish list. New
Zealanders deserve a say on their country’s future and together we must demand the debate.”