The National Party has admitted that it's much-feted tax cut of $250 a fortnight will only go to 3000 families - as revealed by Newshub on Wednesday night.
Despite it knowing that number all along, it’s denying it’s misled the public. But the Labour Party has accused them of scamming voters.
The National Party has been spinning like a top over its tax cuts.
"We have always said up to $250 a week for an average household income with young children," said National leader Christopher Luxon.
Except they haven't always.
For example, last month on AM, Luxon said said National would "give an average income household family with young kids $250 extra a fortnight".
On Wednesday night, Newshub revealed analysis from the Council of Trade Unions showing only 3000 families would receive the headline figure of National's tax cut plan - $250 a fortnight.
"It’s a scam, I think they’re misleading New Zealanders about this policy," Labour finance spokesperson Grant Robertson said.
The party would not respond to our questions on Wednesday instead deciding to smear the source, rather than confirm the substance.
National finance spokesperson Nicola Willis denied blustering.
So, here's what Newshub asked.
We asked Willis how many households will benefit from the $252 a fortnight.
Her response: "Why is Clint sending you CTU material, seems very odd."
She is referring to Clint Smith, a former Labour staffer, now research director at CapitalNZ.
Willis also provided with a bunch of other numbers not related to the question asked.
Newshub asked again, but there was another deflection.
"I find it astonishing that you are platforming an obvious Labour beat up."
Newshub asked again.
"We've always said 'up to' $250 because not everyone will get that."
Still no number.
On Thursday, there was an admission.
"Yes, around 3000 families would get that maximum entitlement," said Willis.
It's something they've known all along.
"We modelled it out completely," said Luxon.
Third time, second reporter lucky.
"Yes, we do."
Labour leader Chris Hipkins said: "If a question is asked which they don't want to answer, they simply go back to their slogans or they try and change their topic by attacking the person who is asking the question. It is a Donald Trump-like campaign strategy."
National panicking in the face of pressure.
