Andrew Dickens: Why has National had a fiscal crack at Labour so early

We’ve come to the end of a fascinating week in politics.

But what week in politics isn’t.

It kicked off last Sunday with Nicola Willis alleging a massive hidden bill in Labour’s policies.

She also had a crack at the lack of policies from Labour.

And while that entertained her base who already hold that view, there were many who said she pulled the trigger too soon and it was a classic case of the pot calling the kettle black.

Heather said it was way too soon, and it should have been left to closer to election day.

Cameron Bagrie said that all parties have hidden bills and because of our fiscal state all policies are going to have to be paid for by debt. So, Nicola’s shot could have backfired.

And Audrey Young pointed out that last election Nicola Willis released her fiscal policy with costings only four days before advance voting started, and 17 days before election day.

This year's election is 141 days away.

Look I enjoy this election style biffo because it’s great grist to the mill for people in my job.

But I too wonder why National has pulled the trigger so early.

It raises the question whether they’re very worried about the opposition beating them.

It also shows their hand and comes election time maybe Labour will be better prepared. Maybe.

Andrew Dickens is a broadcaster with Newstalk ZB. - where this article was sourced.