Tax take is 'bribe money', claims Peters

Taxpayers should be outraged that the Government is again overtaxing them, according to New Zealand First leader Winston Peters.

Recently released figures reveal that total tax revenue for the last nine months is nine per cent higher than for the same period last year.

"The Government is overtaxing New Zealanders to build up its election year bribery funds, said Mr Peters.

"New Zealanders should be asking just where is this money going? It certainly isn't going into the pockets of ordinary people or towards solving the $9.4 billion current account deficit crisis", Mr Peters said.

"There are currently strong signals indicating a downturn in the economy. Exporters are going to the wall in the face of an overpriced dollar and high interest rates.

"The Government will only make matters worse if it continues to overtax. This is showing blatant disregard for the productivity and success of New Zealand businesses.

"It doesn't take a genius to work out that it is election year and the Government needs all the money it can get to bribe voters into voting them in again.

"Their master plan will be revealed leading up to Budget Day on 19 May," said Mr Peters.