Luxon’s choices cost Kiwis their jobs – Labour

The latest unemployment figures reveal the cost to New Zealanders of Christopher Luxon’s economic decisions, with unemployment now at its highest level in over a decade.

“Rising unemployment doesn’t happen by accident. It’s the consequence of decisions, and Christopher Luxon has chosen an economic plan that has cost tens of thousands of people their jobs,” Labour finance and economy spokesperson Barbara Edmonds said.

“Unemployment is now 5.4 percent, the highest level in over a decade. There are 165,000 New Zealanders who want a job and can’t get one – and Christopher Luxon’s policies are to blame.

“When you slash investment, when you prioritise tax breaks for landlords over investment in the real economy – this is what happens. People lose their livelihoods.

“Nearly 3,000 businesses were forced to shut their doors last year. Wages aren’t keeping pace with the cost of living. The economy has shrunk since this government took office. Record numbers of people are leaving the country.

“None of this happened by accident. It is the predictable result of Luxon’s choices. Christopher Luxon promised to fix the economy, but things are getting worse.

“New Zealand’s economic future depends on backing Kiwis and businesses – not abandoning them. Labour’s Future Fund will invest in local businesses and innovation to create jobs here at home, and we’ll ease cost-of-living pressures with practical support like three free doctor visits a year.

“Every day this government continues on its current path, more New Zealanders fall behind. Luxon chose this direction. New Zealanders can choose a different one in November,” Barbara Edmonds said.