Chorus report release timing cynical

The Government’s release of an Ernst & Young report into Chorus’ financial position on a Saturday afternoon, just two days after it said it wouldn’t be making it public until next week, is a cynical move timed to ensure minimal public response, Labour Leader David Cunliffe says.

“This is a substantial report that goes to the heart of National’s flagship broadband policy. On Thursday Amy Adams was adamant it wouldn’t be released until Monday at the earliest.

“The Government drops it on a Saturday afternoon to divert attention from the fact it is copping fall-out from the asset sales referendum.

“From first reading it appears Kiwis could again be being softened up for another corporate welfare pay-out, with suggestions the taxpayer could be left to pick up a $200m-$250m shortfall.

“A drop in copper prices was predicted at least two years ago. This is a mess of the Government’s own making and one it is now trying to sweep under the carpet in the run-up to Christmas.”

David Cunliffe said Labour would be able respond more fully to the report once it had read it thoroughly.

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