This year's Budget Policy Statement is a thin document and not just in terms of the number of pages - 15 compared to 29 last year. In its own terms it gives a picture of responsible fiscal management. The Green Party believes fiscal sustainability is an important part of a sustainable future and we support the Government's responsible approach to financial management. Government, commerce and civil society all have a role to play in New Zealand future.
Economic activity is just one part of the rich tapestry of human society.
SO we Greens welcome both fiscal responsibility and a more realistic approach to the need for active Government. Over the last year the Greens have been pleased to support a number of much needed Government reforms to help restore social justice and equity in New Zealand. The introduction of income related rents for State houses was a particularly important initiative. It is already proving to be a major step in reducing poverty in New Zealand. Not only are food banks reporting a drop in demand because hard pressed families are spending less on rent and can better meet their other basic needs but the introduction of fair rents has helped restore many peoples dignity that was stripped away by National when it inflicted market rents on tens of thousands of hard working low income New Zealanders.