Media release
14 October 2003
A question for Mr Swain
Business NZ says the Land Transport Management Bill raises an important question:
What percentage of petrol taxes should be spent on roads?
Business NZ Chief Executive says the question was raised with the Transport Minister on Radio Pacific today, but was
left unanswered.
“It is the single most important question in relation to this piece of legislation, and deserves a reply from the
Minister.
“Currently, around 75% of the funds amassed from petrol taxes gets taken away from roads and spent on other things. The
Land Transport Management Bill will allow even more road user money to be diverted to the consolidated fund and other
places, and away from roading.
“On radio this morning the Minister stressed the important role played by road user funds in funding non-roading
services, so motorists need to know what is the Transport Minister’s bottom line.
“Is 75% of petrol taxes going into the consolidated account and other places, the right amount?
“Is 80% OK?
“What about 90%?
“We have heard the Transport Minister stand up for non-roading activities funded by motorists. Now we would like to hear
him stand up for motorists and roads.
“What percentage of petrol taxes should be spent on roads, Mr Swain?”
ENDS