Hon GRANT ROBERTSON (Minister of Finance): The Crown accounts released this morning reflect the strong position the economy is in to manage the impacts of the challenging global economic environment. For the 10 months to the end of April, the operating balance before gains and losses deficit was $9.4 billion, $3.2 billion below that forecast in Budget 2022 in May. This result shows the strong position New Zealand finds itself in despite a highly uncertain global environment dominated by high levels of inflation, which are caused by the ongoing pandemic and supply-chain disruptions and the war in Ukraine. Our strong economic management has meant that we have navigated COVID to be in a better position than many other countries to deal with the challenges that lie ahead. Our recovery is gaining momentum, and the easing of restrictions and opening up to skilled workers and tourists will help businesses and the economy rebuild.