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" ... The program will finish at the end of this month, and that is what will be happening." - Treasurer Eric Roozendaal, 10 December 2009 http://www.mikebaird.com.au/news_and_events/tv_interviews/stamp_duty.html
The credibility of the Treasurer took another hit this morning with Premier Kristina Keneally backing the NSW Liberal & National's calls to extend the stamp duty relief provided under the Housing Construction Acceleration Program, despite it being ruled out by the Treasurer two weeks ago, Shadow Treasurer Mike Baird said today.
"In a clear sign that the Treasurer has lost the confidence of his new Premier, Kristina Keneally has today backed the Opposition's calls to extend the stamp duty relief for construction of new homes - against the wishes of her Treasurer,” Mike Baird said.
"There is no doubt the lack of new housing stock is at crisis point in NSW and the extension of this small stamp duty concession is at least a start on this critical issue.
"It is unclear why the Treasurer ruled out this extension which again highlights his lack of financial credentials for his current role.
“The incompetent NSW State Labor Government failed to use the full budget allocation for the Housing Construction Acceleration Program, spending $12 million of a $64 million allotment.
“First home owners, investors and those who rely on the construction industry for their jobs will be breathing a sigh of relief as Kristina Keneally rejects the ill-conceived plans of Eric Roozendaal. It defied common-sense to end the program prematurely in the first place.
“This is typical NSW Labor: only doing the right thing once all other avenues have been exhausted.
"Fresh from his embarrassing revelations of private discussions with the Reserve Bank Governor, it is clear the new Premier is fast losing confidence in the Treasurer."
"With NSW limping out of recession and the economy scorched after 14 years of Labor, the last thing this State needs is further disunity between the Premier and her Treasurer," Mike Baird concluded.
MEDIA: Lisa Harrington - 0406 726 880
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