Only One Solution To Superannuation Spat

There’s only one solution to the superannuation dispute between Labour and the Alliance - a multi-party accord - Opposition Superannuation spokesperson Simon Upton said today.

"And that is Mr Anderton’s sensible observation that any durable superannuation policy must be rooted in a multiparty accord process.

"The independent Superannuation Taskforce that Labour is intent on dismantling is the forum in which a resolution can be found.

"National has consistently called on Michael Cullen to put his proposal for a dedicated tax in front of the Taskforce to have it independently assessed by experts as to its merit.

"Superannuation goes way beyond two political parties – we need a long term answer. The spat between Labour and the Alliance is the very reason why the independent group is needed.

"Most people agree that taking the issue out of the political arena will get the result that is in the best interests of the country.

"National supports the Alliance push to keep superannuation from becoming a political football.

"Labour originally signed up to a non political approach but allowed itself to get sucked back into bidding for votes with unsustainable super promises.

"If Labour believes its dedicated super tax is fair and affordable National urges it to submit the plan to the independent accord process."