My values are Labour values.

I want to help build a stronger, more caring society. I am passionate about Dunedin, and I bring considerable energy and wide experience to the task of representing this electorate.

My diverse work background has given me an understanding of the economic and social levers that can be pulled to achieve meaningful change.

Please read some of the discussions included here. I welcome your comments.

- David Clark

economy, fairness

22 August, 2012

$15 minimum wage makes sense

My second Members Bill aims to increase New Zealand’s minimum wage to $15/hr.   If ultimately successful, I would expect the minimum wage to already be sitting at $14 by the time it got through the Parliamentary process.  A $1/hr increase may not seem like much to some, but it makes a big difference to those living below the poverty line.

A minimum wage increase helps working families put nutritious food on the table for their kids. 

One of the additional bonuses is that it is likely to have a stimulatory effect on the economy.  The estimated $427 million cost will boost the prospects of many small businesses.  This is because people on low incomes are likely to spend any additional money immediately – on necessities like food, shelter, heating and school books.  Wealthier folk are more likely to spend money on overseas trips (which don’t help our economy much) and/or savings (which doesn’t have an immediate stimulatory effect).

I’ve put the case for the minimum wage in greater detail in an Otago Daily Times article – published today.

UPDATE: 4 September.  The NZ Herald has carried a separate opinion piece from me on the minimum wage.

1 COMMENT

1 comment on ‘$15 minimum wage makes sense’

  1. 22 August, 2012
    Jo

    I hope this bill passes.

Leave your comment.