Mike Bain/cvnznews.com
National is continuing to pressure Labour over what it calls an $18.2 billion fiscal hole, accusing Chris Hipkins of refusing to explain how Labour would pay for its policy promises. But Labour has pushed back, arguing National is in no position to lecture anyone on funding shortfalls.
National’s Finance spokesperson Nicola Willis said nearly a full day had passed since the figures were released and Labour had still not provided “a single credible answer” about how it would cover the cost of its commitments.
“Labour hasn’t disputed any of the spending items in the document,” Willis said. “But it still won’t tell New Zealanders whether it plans to pay for them through higher taxes, more borrowing, or both.”
Willis said Labour’s Finance spokesperson Barbara Edmonds had effectively confirmed the gap by reaffirming Labour’s commitment to each policy listed. “Instead of fronting up, all we’ve seen is deflection and excuses,” she said.
National argues that with the Government’s books in deficit, voters deserve clarity on whether Labour’s plans would mean higher taxes on income, property, businesses, land, or farms — or whether the party would simply borrow more and pass the cost to future generations.
“Labour wants to run the economy. It’s fair to ask how it will pay for its promises,” Willis said. “Yesterday Labour had every opportunity to show us the money. Today, New Zealanders are still none the wiser.”
However, Labour has countered that National’s criticism rings hollow, pointing to funding gaps identified in several National policies, including questions raised by independent analysts over whether National’s own revenue assumptions and savings plans fully cover its commitments.
Labour says National has repeatedly announced policies without providing full costings, accusing the Government of “demanding transparency it does not consistently provide itself.”
Both parties now face growing pressure to present fully costed, independently verified fiscal plans ahead of the election, as voters seek clarity on how competing promises will be paid for.
