Budget 2022 comes at a time when the global economy is uncertain and volatile. Our response to that requires a careful balance. Faced with the current elevated levels of global inflation, some would have us pull back on supporting New Zealanders with the public services that they need. But that will not reduce the prices that Kiwis are facing at the pump or in the supermarket; it will only undermine the wellbeing and security of our people, and it is not an option I am prepared to consider. 