Confidence falls while National dithers
Falling confidence levels in New Zealand's economy should be a wake-up call for the National Government that their lack of an economic plan can't continue, Labour Finance Spokesperson David Cunliffe says.
"Figures released by TV One this morning showed that more than 40 percent of people believe the economy will either stay the same or get worse over the next 12 months. This represents a confidence level heading back towards levels seen during the recession last year.
"Both John Key and Bill English have confidently declared that the recession is over so shouldn't confidence levels be increasing and unemployment be falling?
'The reality is the lack of an economic vision from the National Government is causing increasing concern amongst New Zealanders.
"Nationals economic management has been a shambles and while they hid behind the recession last year, there can be no hiding in 2010.
"Bill English today declared that he was looking a long-term economic plan rather than taking a short-term approach. But in reality he has no plan. If Bill English had a long-term economic plan for New Zealand why hasn't he told the country what it is?
"Instead we are cutting a few ideas such as mining in the conservation estate being talked about as an economic solution.
“In reality mining in the conservation estate could cost New Zealand's multi-billion dollar tourism industry dearly so any gains from mining could be lost in other areas. International condemnation of this mining has already begun with the Sierra Club writing to the Prime Minister.
"New Zealanders are paying the price for National's inability or lack of desire to help people who are struggling.
"John Key and Bill English were elected by the New Zealand public to lead because they promised higher wagers and a bigger economy. Instead they had delivered increased unemployment and growing concerns about where the economy is heading.
"New Zealanders can't wait any longer Bill - they need help now," David Cunliffe said
