Summarised by Centrist
Mike Hosking’s latest Newstalk ZB commentary gives the government a rare triple endorsement he believes show genuine reformist intent: financial literacy in schools, Nicola Willis’ tough budget moves, and David Seymour’s attack on bureaucratic bloat.
“In many respects, it’s the more valuable end of the education spectrum. It’s education you can actually use,” he said.
On the economic front, he singles out Finance Minister Nicola Willis for cutting the operating allowance from $2.4 billion to $1.3 billion. “The $2.4b number already had headlines for being skinny, or unrealistic. $1.3b is rabbit out of a hat material.”
ACT Leader David Seymour earns credit for naming what Hosking calls the “bloat” of modern government. “In his speech, he alerted us to just how much – 82 portfolios, 41 departments and 28 ministers. If ever you wanted an example of bloat, there it is.” Hosking describes the proliferation of portfolios as a political tool to ”appease people” and reward party loyalty.
Though impressed by Seymour’s diagnosis, Hosking is sceptical about his ability to achieve meaningful cuts: “Unlike the real world, you will note Cabinet and Government never downsize… If Seymour somehow trims a single minister or ministry, it won’t be an idea – it will be a miracle.”
“Financial literacy will materially improve our kids’ future. Willis and her austerity will materially improve our economy,” he said.
