Scott says

After going through the Government’s Budget announcements, it’s clear that New Zealanders are in for a tough few years. Treasury forecasts indicate inflation will stay at 30year highs until at least 2025. These forecasts are chilling and we will see the negative impacts across every sector of society. Higher interest rates will put pressure on mortgage holders, especially those who have just entered the market. Even if you qualify for the cost of living payment, the $350 won’t cover the increases in rent, food and fuel.

During high inflationary periods, it would make sense for the Government to rein in its spending, but Labour is continuing to push forward with costly reforms. Billions of taxpayer dollars will be spent rearranging the bureaucracy of government services with no guarantees that New Zealanders will be delivered better outcomes. This simply isn’t what is needed when Kiwi households are under pressure just to make ends meet.

National would have been and will be again, far more careful with the NZ economy. We think that you are better able to decide how you spend your money than the government. That’s why we’ve been calling for a review of the tax thresholds for the last few years. This simple approach would see those people on super paying about $1,400 a year less in tax.

Another issue which has taken hold in communities across the country is the rise in gang activity. This is particularly concerning in the Bay of Plenty where gang membership in the region has risen 37% since 2017. Whether it’s seeing the aftermath of a ram-raid in our communities or violent crime on the evening news, it’s clear that the Government’s approach to tackling crime isn’t working. If you have any issue you wish to discuss with me, don’t hesitate to get in touch by either calling 0800 550 330 or emailing mpcoromandel@parliament.govt.nz