Nick Smith - Nelson MP, Minister National Government

Head to Head

In the lead up to the general election, the Nelson Mail will put readers' questions to Nelson's two main candidates, Nick Smith and Maryan Street.  You can email questions to alanc@nelsonmail.co.nz.

Fixing the Financial Sector: Hundreds of Nelson people have lost their retirement savings through bad finance companies. What specific steps will you take to enable people to have better security over their savings?

Supporting Exports: Nelson is a strong exporting region with a long dependence on the three Fs ... forestry, fishing and farming. How will your party help grow these industries and their exports to support Nelson's broader economy?

Welfare Reform:  Green cards for teen beneficiaries, preventing alcohol and tobacco purchases, are among welfare reform proposals floated by the Government. How practical is this and should such a move be extended to older beneficiaries?

Debt Crisis:  America's debt crisis has been dominating global economic concerns, and New Zealand also has been borrowing heavily for some time. What do you see as the keys to managing our economy over the next three years?