MEDIA RELEASE
18 October 1999
The last happy Christmas
Treasurer Bill English said today this year would be the last happy Christmas for New Zealand families if Helen Clark
is able to carry out her top priority of tax increases.
"Over the weekend Ms Clark was reported as saying that a Labour-led Government would pass legislation to increase taxes
a few days before Christmas because it was her top priority.
"Christmas of all times is a time when families have saved to have a little bit extra for treats and holidays. A few
hundred dollars extra, saved week by week all year, makes a big difference to a family at Christmas time.
"There couldn't be a bigger contrast with National's attitude to New Zealand families. National will be passing
legislation to cut the middle tax rate to 20cents and increase the threshold to $40,000. That would be a Christmas
present worth having for everyone who earns over $9,500.
"National believes in sharing the benefits of growth. As well as reducing taxes, we are committed to spending a dollar
more on social services for every dollar of tax cuts.
"No serious political party in the world is advocating higher taxes. Lower taxes mean reward for effort and families
with more capacity to achieve their aspirations. That's what will take New Zealand forwards. Labour's higher taxes would
take us backwards," said Mr English.
Ends
Internet address - www.executive.govt.nz/minister/english