The National-led Government has a strong plan and a busy work programme to encourage investment, grow our economy, and boost jobs for Kiwis.
We are building on the momentum achieved during the past four years in Government, even in the face of continuing global uncertainty.
This year’s Budget confirms that New Zealand is on the right track.
Our plan is working; the economy is continuing to grow, real jobs being created, and confidence increasing. This is particularly good news highlighting that even through challenging economic times, National has worked methodically to return to surplus in 2014-2015.
When we came into office in November 2008, Labour had left us with a set of Government books with increasing debt and never ending deficits.
Latest statistics show that the economy grew 3% in calendar year 2012, comparable to Australia’s 3.1% growth. We are well ahead of the US with 1.6% growth, 0.3% in the UK, and negative 0.9% in the Euro area.
Manufacturing in New Zealand grew 2.7% in 2012 and exports were up 2.1%
In its annual check-up of our country’s health, the International Monetary Fund has just given the tick of approval to National’s responsible management of the Government’s finances, one of our priorities this term.
Balanced approach
IMF says that the Government is getting it right with our balanced approach to supporting growth and reducing public debt.
So, while opposition parties are trying to talk New Zealand down and say no to jobs, National is moving to put the economy on a more competitive footing.
In particular, we have embarked on more than 300 initiatives to build export markets, innovation, skills, capital markets, infrastructure, and better access to our natural resources, as part of our Business Growth Agenda.
This is helping to give businesses the confidence to invest, grow, and hire new staff.
Real growth does not happen until one more business invests another dollar, sells a better product or service, and hires another person.
In addition, our sensible fiscal and monetary policy is helping to keep interest rates and inflation low, which is benefitting businesses and households across New Zealand.
National is busy, focused, and taking action across the many areas needed to boost growth, investment, and jobs. Our strong plan is helping build a brighter future for New Zealand families.
Kanwaljit Singh Bakshi is a Member of Parliament on National’s List.
