Sir Bob Geldof to Kiwis: Cheap bastards

By M&C News Jul 16, 2006, 15:25 GMT

Irishman Sir Bob Geldof has had it with the New Zealand government’s foot dragging when it comes to giving to world aid, after branding the country's contribution to foreign aid "pathetic" and a "disgrace".

The rocker claims New Zealand has handed over just 0.27 per cent of its gross national income, which falls well below the world average.

According to New Zealand wire services: “at an anti-poverty rally in Auckland, Geldof said yesterday, ‘The pathetic 0.27 percent that this government gives to the poorest people on the planet is a great disgrace.’ “

"The great shame of New Zealand is that it is the third-lowest in the world with their generosity, and this surely does not represent the spirit of the electorate. The New Zealand government, frankly, must up their game." Said Geldof.

Foreign Minister Winston Peters has accused Geldof of getting his facts wrong, stating New Zealand contributes close to .40 per cent.  "It's way above the world current average. For Mr Geldof to say otherwise is rather disappointing - and it's not true." According to the Auckland Daily News.