Fuel Relief Must Come from Spending Cuts, Not More Debt

Responding to reports the Government is considering additional financial support for families during the fuel crisis, the Taxpayers’ Union says any new support for families must be fully funded through spending cuts elsewhere, not more borrowing.

Taxpayers’ Union spokesperson Tory Relf said:

“Families are under real pressure from rising fuel costs, but throwing borrowed money at the problem will only make the cost-of-living crisis worse. More deficit spending risks driving inflation higher and keeping interest rates elevated.”

“If ministers want to provide support during the fuel crisis, it must be fully funded by reprioritising the billions currently being wasted across the public sector.”

“New Zealand cannot afford another Grant Robertson-style ‘spend now, worry later’ response. Kiwis are still dealing with the consequences of that approach.”

“Government debt is already at $140,000 per household, according to the national Debt Clock. Helping families today shouldn’t mean saddling them with more debt tomorrow. The Government should be tightening its belt and reallocating spending, not reaching for the credit card again.”