His claims that there are funding cuts to schools, universities, and other social services are just wrong.

In the May Budget, the Australian government kept its commitments and is investing record recurrent funding of $64.5 billion in government and non-government schools over the next four years – an increase of $4.6 billion or 37 per cent during this period. 

Under this government, commonwealth spending for schools will reach record highs and increase over the next four years.

To claim that the member for New England Barnaby Joyce does nothing for farmers is equally ridiculous. 

Take for example Australia’s exports of agricultural produce. 

In the 11 month period up until the end of July, the value of Australian beef and veal exports was $5.878 billion. This was an increase $735 million on the previous 12-month period. Sheep meat exports also rose by $460 million. 

Meanwhile dairy was also enjoying increased market access rising $355 million.

This government came to power with a massive debt and deficit challenge. Currently the Australian treasury has to pay $13.2 billion each year  in interest repayments to service our debts: Money that has to be borrowed.

The Abbott Coalition is a government that has this country’s long-term best interests at heart. 

We need to manage the national budget in a responsible manner that ensures our children and grand-children will not inherit a massive debt. 

Currently every Australian man, woman and child is burdened with a debt of more than $25,000. We must be the responsible government and drive down this debt to pave the way for a better future.

I think Barnaby is doing a good job and I say that not even being a member of the National Party.

WARREN WOODLEY

Tamworth