Plans to sell off Chorus breaks yet another promise Christopher Luxon made – that there would be no asset sales under his leadership.
On the campaign trail on 6 September, Christopher Luxon was asked if he can rule out asset sales as Prime Minister, saying “I’ve done that, a year or so ago. I said to you at the time there will be no asset sales. It’s not something we’re focused on or not interested in.”
He has made the same commitment in interviews since becoming Prime Minister, including while responding to questions in the House.
Nicola Willis made the same commitment during the campaign, telling Q+A’s Jack Tame that she would rule out asset sales – yet they are still looking at selling Chorus.
“National is yet again failing to invest in the future,” Labour Leader Chris Hipkins said.
“They promise not to sell assets when it suits them, and then the first thing they do when it becomes clear they’re failing to manage the economy is look to hock off the family silverware.
“The Government’s accounts out yesterday show they’re borrowing more and investing less. They’re already out of ideas, so they’re doing what National always does and selling assets. Assets should be kept in Kiwi hands for the public good.
“National needs to focus on building a future for all New Zealanders, rather than repeating the short-term thinking that has failed us in the past. This is a desperate attempt to mop up their own financial mess,” Chris Hipkins said.
Christopher Luxon ruling out asset sales:
Standup, 6 September 2023, at 14:55: https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/national/497379/watch-national-party-will-deliver-10-000-electric-vehicle-chargers-by-2030-leader-says
On the Mike Hosking Breakfast (with Ryan Bridge), 21 January 2025, at 53:17: https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/on-air/mike-hosking-breakfast/audio/full-show-podcast-21-january-2025/
In the House 22 October, 2024: https://www3.parliament.nz/en/pb/hansard-debates/rhr/document/HansS_20241022_053700000/2-question-no-2-prime-minister
