Willis and Richardson finance debate

The story so far

Finance Minister Nicola Willis challenged former finance minister Ruth Richardson, now Taxpayers' Union chair, to a debate at Parliament, following a planned Taxpayers' Union campaign targeting Willis.^{9, 12 Dec 2025} Richardson agreed to a debate expected after the Half-Year Fiscal Update, but a dispute over the venue followed, with each side accusing the other of trying to avoid it.^{9, 11 Dec 2025} Richardson dropped her demand for a talkback radio setting and suggested economist Cameron Bagrie as moderator, while Labour MP Willie Jackson called the proposed discussion a sham.^{12 Dec 2025}

Latest

Richardson has withdrawn from the planned debate, calling it a sideshow intended to distract from fiscal issues.^{16 Dec 2025} Willis responded that no further social media exchanges are required.^{16 Dec 2025}

Key moments

1. 9 Dec 2025Willis challenges Richardson to a debate at Parliament
2. 11 Dec 2025Taxpayers' Union launches campaign accusing Willis over spending promises
3. 12 Dec 2025Richardson drops talkback demand, suggests Cameron Bagrie as moderator
4. 16 Dec 2025Richardson declines debate, calling it a sideshow

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