Labour leader Phil Goff gave a speech in Nelson today laying out his views on the economy. They were refreshingly left-wing. After attacking the government's record on the Cullen fund, KiwiSaver, GST and tax cuts, Goff talked about Labour's broad direction, including:
- Revising National's tax changes to benefit the many, rather than the few;
- The retention and if necessary restoration of a top tax rate, though with a higher threshold (around $100,000);
- Taking a good look at removing GST from healthy food. While Goff favours simplicity, he has seen the evidence on the health benefits, and things it is worth serious investigation.
- Broadening the Reserve bank's focus beyond mere price stability, while giving it more tools to influence monetary policy;
- Restoring the Cullen Fund, rebuilding KiwiSaver and examining a shift to a compulsory scheme in the long-term;
- Reforming the Overseas Investment Act to provide greater protection for strategic assets, monopoly businesses, and farm land;
- Boosting R&D investment, with a particular focus on clean technology and renewable energy.
So a fairer, greener economy focused on meeting the needs of New Zealanders rather than foreign landlords and monopolists. Sounds good to me.
