Minister fudging “any time, any place" challenge to Ruth Richardson

Just like the surplus, Nicola Willis wants to postpone the "Mother of All Debates". Newstalk ZB report this morning that the Minister of Finances's office is walking back on the Minister's "any time, any place" challenge to the Taxpayers' Union chair, Ruth Richardson.

"The Finance Minister challenged the Taxpayers’ Union Chair to a debate 'any time, any place'. Ruth’s made her pick - it’s now for Willis to stick to her commitments,” said Taxpayers' Union spokesman, Jordan Williams.

"Next week is the HYEFU opening of the books, and that is the very time to have the debate on how best to fix the country's finances."

"The Minister's office is clearly scrambling - they're in talks with media organisations to 'negotiate' a debate without having even approached Ruth or the Taxpayers' Union. They're trying to walk back the Minister's big brave challenge."

"Ruth says 'bring it on'. Newstalk ZB are offering to host a live-streamed videoed debate in their Auckland studio next week. Don't fudge this too, Minister.”