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Creating a policy context for a more inclusive NZ

Superannuation policy is back in the limelight. I have said this many times before, but it is worth repeating: a well-rounded policy on superannuation rests on three pillars: the basic pension provided by the government; the level of pensions that people qualify for through employment based savings schemes, and the amounts generated by voluntary individual savings.

"After promising us a policy on superannuation, all National has managed to deliver is a committee," Finance Minister Michael Cullen said

Finance Minister Michael Cullen says a survey asking what brings Kiwis home reiterates the messages he was given by expatriates on his recent two week investment and briefing tour to the UK, Japan and Singapore.

Financial strategies for the budget and public sector.
I bring greetings from Finance Minister Michael Cullen who, not being able to be here in person, sends his best wishes, apologies and me - to present the first paper at this year's conference.

Good afternoon. It is a pleasure to be back with you here today. You have asked me to talk about investing in New Zealand and I must say the timing could not have been better.

Confidence rebound augurs well for economy

"National's stance on New Zealand superannuation is predictable, cynical and confused," Finance Minister Michael Cullen said today.

A New Era of Partnerships in New Zealand

Minister of Finance Michael Cullen said he had a good exchange of views with Standard and Poor's Asian headquarters in Singapore.

Finance Minister Michael Cullen believes New Zealand should consider building stronger direct links with Scotland now that it has its own government.

The past year and a half have been significant for New Zealand. There is a buzz happening that's hard to miss.

I have been asked to introduce this discussion by commenting on why the New Zealand and UK economies seem to be withstanding the slowdown in the global economy.

Finance Minister Michael Cullen received a range of briefings on the Japanese economy during his visit to Tokyo on Monday.

"The zero March quarter gross domestic product result is disappointing, but is also three months out of date," Finance Minister Michael Cullen said today.

"Strong goods exports and inbound tourism are driving a steady and continuing amelioration in the balance of payments position," Finance Minister Michael Cullen said today.

"The Government will legislate to remove an anomaly unfairly depriving around 1,200 widows of pensions from the Government Superannuation Fund," Finance Minister Michael Cullen said today.

Deputy Prime Minister Jim Anderton, Finance Minister Michael Cullen and Transport Minister Mark Gosche met tonight with the acting chairman of Air New Zealand, Dr Jim Farmer, and the company chief executive, Gary Toomey, and two independent directors.

Finance Minister Michael Cullen says he is disappointed that irresponsible reporting by some of the media has forced him to comment on the issues paper released yesterday by the Tax Review.

"The Tax Review has delivered a tough-minded and radical analysis which should spark a 'first principles' debate on taxation in this country," Finance Minister Michael Cullen said today.

I am pleased to have been invited to address you today. I shall take the opportunity to update you on a number of tax policy issues and progress in several areas.

Economic Development Minister Jim Anderton, Finance Minister Michael Cullen and Transport Minister Mark Gosche received a briefing this afternoon from Singapore Airlines Chief Executive, Dr Cheong Choong Kong on the Air New Zealand Board meeting today.

"The New Zealand Superannuation Bill should now have the votes to pass after the Cabinet today signed off an amendment to reflect New Zealand First's concerns," Finance Minister Michael Cullen said.

The Government is to consult on proposals to better target assistance to charities through the tax system.