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Ladies and Gentlemen

I am very proud to be leading a Government that is doing the right thing by New Zealanders.

And I am proud to be leading a Government that has faced the challenges of the last few years and is putting New Zealand on a path to stronger and more sustainable growth.

Yesterday’s Budget was another firm step on that path.

The plan the Budget sets out is very clear.

First, it’s about getting the government’s finances in order.

Ladies and Gentlemen

I want to start by thanking Business New Zealand for co-hosting this lunch.

More importantly, I want to thank them for the constructive role they play in representing New Zealand businesses and employers.

I’d also like to thank Fujitsu for their part in sponsoring this event as well.

In a week’s time Bill English will deliver his third Budget.

Good afternoon and thank you to the Wellington Employers’ Chamber of Commerce for inviting me back to speak to you this year.

To say that a lot has happened since I spoke to you 12 months ago is something of an understatement.

Throughout 2010, aftershocks from the global financial crisis continued to ripple around the world.