Sue Bradford

The building industry downturn means National should invest in more state houses – not put a cap on them – says the Green Party.

"Putting a cap on state houses as indicated yesterday by Housing Minister Phil Heatley is irresponsible at a time of economic downtown," Green Party Housing Spokesperson Sue Bradford says.

New research released this morning puts paid to some of the myths about lack of public support for the section 59 law change, says the Green Party.

Rumours that Fairfax may be interested in snapping up rival media company APN have raised concerns about the independence of New Zealand’s news industry should such a deal go ahead, the Green Party says.

Details of John Key’s transitional relief package show that National, like Labour, still falls short in terms of providing equitable assistance for all newly laid-off workers, says the Green Party.

Everyone who loses their job deserves support, Green Party Social Development Spokesperson Sue Bradford says.

"In the face of likely recession and increasing layoffs and redundancies it is vital that people receive assistance to help tide them over."