Debate about whether or not the minimum wage should increase to $15 is waging in Parliament today with the member's bill being opposed by the National Government.
Tauranga MP Simon Bridges says he is not opposed to an increase in wages, but says it is not the right time for such a 'dramatic increase”.
Tauranga MP Simon Bridges says it is not the right to increase the minimum wage.
Labour Party member David Clark is proposing to increase the minimum wage from $13.50 to $15 with debate over the first reading due to be concluded today.
Simon says if the bill is passed the increase could see a loss in jobs.
"We have been steadily increasing the minimum wage since we have been in Government.
"Now is not the time for such a dramatic increase."
Simon says New Zealand needs to be growing jobs and putting up the minimum wage would make it harder for smaller businesses, which will struggle to find the extra cash to keep people employed.
"A wage increase could result in 5500 jobs being lost. This is a terrible time to try a legislate for a wage increase.
"I have spoken to Tauranga cafe owners along The Strand who say they will have to lay off staff if the minimum wage is increased."
5 comments
MORE PRODUCTIVITY
Posted on 19-09-2012 15:32 | By YOGI
Is what we all need then more wages will automatically follow. The wages going up means all prices go up to so nothing will be any better after than before.
Does he also oppose salary rises to MPs?
Posted on 19-09-2012 17:28 | By Phailed
I'd have more respect if Simon opposed the salaries paid to MPs, cabinet ministers, high civil servants and the like. Also their allowances and travel budgets. Then I think his stance on the minimum wage would have my respect.
WORK HARDER
Posted on 19-09-2012 17:39 | By YOGI
Then earn more, simple concept really.
Bravery
Posted on 19-09-2012 20:18 | By penguin
Wouldn't it be great to see a politician buck the party line and actually speak for himself? I wonder where Bridges gets his 'follow-the-leader boring CD's made?
Coffee or not?
Posted on 19-09-2012 22:41 | By Pooks
Hopefully Mr Bridges bought something at each of the cafe's that he visited. As somebody that earns practically a minimum wage, I unfortunately do not get the chance to spend my earnings at the cafe's along the Strand. No doubt this also has a knock on effect. "Work Harder"? Offer me employment where I work harder than I already do and I will be glad to take you on for that bet. Simple concept if you have the inroads to do so. Create well paid employment and local trade will follow. Either that or create local trade and produce well paid employment. They go hand in hand.
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