The Government’s policies and programmes have not only helped the economy to emerge from the recession sooner than other economies but also have begun to benefit businesses and people, Prime Minister John Key said.
He cited the increasing business confidence, tax cuts to offset GST increase (from October 1), efforts to bring more people into employment (from benefit) and the National Standards for Education as examples.
“New Zealanders are better off under the National Government than they were under the Labour regime. We will continue to build on our success for a better and brighter future for our people,” he said, speaking at a joint fundraising dinner of the Party’s Manukau East, Mangere and Manurewa electorates on July 15.
The event was the initiative of National List MP (for Manukau East) Kanwaljit Singh Bakshi, with the support and participation of List MPs Dr Cam Calder and Electorate (Maungakiekie) MP Peseta Sam Lotu-Iiga.
Mr Key said this year’s budget focused on improving the performance of the economy and better infrastructure.
“We have boosted science to help faster economic growth and undertaken the biggest tax reform in more than 20 years. This includes across-the-board tax cuts (from October 1) that will benefit a vast majority of families,” he said.
The Prime Minister paid tribute to the Indian community saying that it has been a true partner in the progress of the country.
“Indians are hardworking, law-abiding and honest. It is good to see them taking interest in political and economic development of our country,” he said.
Mr Bakshi said the Indian community was appreciative of the efforts of the National Government to improve the lot of New Zealanders, with its friendly policies and programmes for the people.
“We will continue to promote the wellbeing of the people and listen to their concerns and find solutions,” he said.
Social Development Minister Paula Bennett was the Master of Ceremonies.
About 300 people, mostly from the Indian community, attended the event held at the Cosmopolitan Club in Papatoetoe, Manukau City.
The programme is reported to have raised more than $45,000 through dinner tickets, auction and donations from groups and individuals, notably Prithipal Singh, Roshan Nauhria and Beant Singh, whose personal contributions were stated to be more than $5000 each.
Photo : John Key with (from left) Peseta Sam Lotu-Iiga, Dr Cam Calder, Irvinder Kaur Bakshi, Kanwaljit Singh Bakshi, Paula Bennett and National Regional Deputy Chair Ram Rai at the fundraising dinner.
