Labour’s confusion over whether New Zealanders deserve tax cuts or not has continued. Finance Minister Michael Cullen sowed further doubt on Labour’s promised tax cuts by declaring there is zero chance of closing the income gap with Australia, so he’s not going to try.

Despite protestations otherwise it is becomingly increasingly obvious that the Finance Minister does not believe in tax cuts. A leopard does not change its spots.

Labour’s schizophrenic attitude towards tax cuts makes it clear that the cancellation of the ‘chewing gum’ tax cuts could happen again. Labour cannot be trusted on tax.

In an unprecedented move, New Zealand’s biggest daily newspaper has slammed the Electoral Finance Bill as a major danger to our democracy and free speech – describing it as a device to keep Labour in power. National has campaigned for months against this travesty of a bill, because we recognise the very real threat, it poses to New Zealanders’ rights to freely express their political opinion.

In its desperation, Labour wants to severely regulate political debate and free speech for an outrageous one year in every three. This is unacceptable and an attack on our fundamental democratic rights.

We will not accept this type of draconian electoral legalisation and a National Government would scrap the Electoral Finance Bill if it becomes law.

First gym crèches, now Sunday Schools, what’s next? Labour has confirmed that Sunday Schools may be next in the line of fire of its ridiculous campaign to crackdown on babysitting services. Labour now considers groups such as Sunday Schools and gym crèches early childhood education centres, so they must be fully licensed or face being shut down. This means they must provide sleeping spaces, wash areas and have personal education portfolios for every child under their supervision.

These are patently ridiculous requirements for groups where parents leave their children for less than two hours, while only a few metres away.

I recently attended a celebration for South Auckland Hospice. This was a wonderful occasion to mark 25 years of service to the community. The Hospice is a wonderful facility and it is an absolute credit to those involved, staff and the many volunteers.

The New Papakura Electorate ….is holding a “Strawberry Fare” Garden Party & Farm Visit in Waiau Pa. Contact Sue on 09 232 0222 for details.