Friday 2nd July 1999
Rodney Hide
Media Release
Government Has No Excuse Not To Cut Tax
ACT Finance Spokesman Rodney Hide today said the Government's latest financial statements showing an operating balance
$431 million ahead of forecast meant National had no excuses not to cut tax.
"National's ongoing dithering over tax cuts has been bad for business in this country. ACT agrees with business that
National must get on and set out a programme of tax cuts.
"The only economically sensible first step is to cut the top rate of tax from 33 cents to thirty cents to give an
immediate boost to jobs and growth.
"On the back of these figures the Government must show real leadership and reign in forecast expenditure. Government has
to tighten its belt just like everyone else.
"Secondly, the Government should eliminate the risk taxpayers are currently carrying by owning businesses like TVNZ and
NZ Post. Government should not be in the business of running a Television Network or a Post Shop.
"National has mucked around this year and missed its opportunity in the Budget to provide leadership. These figures
today show National's excuses were just that and they need to get on and do the real work needed to boost jobs and to
help business," said Rodney Hide.
ENDS