Hon GRANT ROBERTSON (Minister of Finance): The strength of the jobs market is continuing to support New Zealand's economy. Statistics New Zealand reported this morning that the unemployment rate remained at a record low 3.2 percent in the March quarter. The number of people classed as unemployed stood at 94,000, which is 29 percent lower than a year ago and 19 percent below where it was in the pre-COVID December 2019 quarter. On comparable measures, New Zealand's 3.2 percent unemployment rate stands against 4 percent in Australia, 3.8 percent in the UK and the United States, and 5.8 percent in Canada. The OECD average is 5.2 percent. This is a very positive result in what has been a challenging environment, and is a sign of confidence in the economy and the Government's strong health response and sound economic management. Our economy is growing at 5.6 percent annually and is above pre-COVID levels with our fiscal position as strong, with triple A credit ratings from leading agencies. The recovery is growing momentum, and the easing restrictions and opening up to skilled workers and tourists will help businesses and the economy rebuild. 