It was the Green Party’s turn to release a stunning party policy this past weekend.
The Green Party has announced its own plan for households to meet rising costs, with an “Income Guarantee” that will ensure no one gets less than $385 a week in their pocket after tax – funded through higher taxes on top earners, trusts and businesses.
The party’s co-leader Marama Davidson said for couples, the Income Guarantee would be at least $770, while a single parent would always have an income of at least $735.
“This will give everyone peace of mind that they can always afford the weekly shop, pay the rent, or cover unexpected costs – even when times are tough,” she said.
It will be funded through changes to the tax system which include a new top rate of income tax of 45 per cent on income over $180,000 and a 2.5 per cent Wealth Tax on assets.
Co-leader James Shaw added:
“I am sick of the politics of excuses. Everything we need to make life better for people in Aotearoa exists. What’s missing is the political willpower to use it. The time is now to lift every single family out of poverty and to pay for it with a fair tax system.
“Our fully costed plan will make sure everyone can pay the bills, put food on the table, and keep the house warm.”
RNZ
National’s finance spokesperson, Nicola Willis, said the policy would see businesses shutting or moving away from New Zealand. “You can’t tax your way to a stronger economy.”
Here, Conservative Cr Rebecca Paul, of Surrey, provides an analogy of why a guaranteed benefit for all doesn’t work.
Read more here. Discuss it on The BFD.