The Finance Minister says she's disappointed by revelations MFAT is exempt from cutting spending this year.

It's been confirmed the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade won't be given a reduced baseline budget.

Most agencies face two percent cuts - but MFAT will be subject to the same five percent reduction for most agencies next year, and the year after.

Newstalk ZB senior political correspondent Barry Soper explained further.

LISTEN ABOVE

The Finance Minister says she's disappointed by revelations MFAT is exempt from cutting spending this year.
It's been confirmed the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade won't be given a reduced baseline budget.
Most agencies face two percent cuts - but MFAT will be subject to the same five percent reduction for most agencies next year, and the year after.
Newstalk ZB senior political correspondent Barry Soper explained further.
LISTEN ABOVE

With a straight down the middle approach, Heather du Plessis-Allan Drive on Newstalk ZB delivers the very latest news and views to New Zealanders as they wrap up their day.

Heather du Plessis-Allan Drive

Barry Soper: Newstalk ZB senior political correspondent on MFAT avoiding cuts ahead of Budget 2026

https://api.omny.fm/orgs/7784f840-c291-422a-924b-ad9000bbad71/clips/41506585-067f-46ca-9a42-b45000552c2f/transcript