National Standards, broadband get more but unions say parents will fund gap.

Savings include KiwiSaver clawbacks while big spend is on quake and education.

Over-55s wanting to retrain or upskill being sent wrong message, say critics.

Next week's budget will provide up to $42 million for trades training for Canterbury to meet labour demand.

Labour is accusing John Key of using his police security officers more than he needs to.

New agreement provides trained secondary teachers an average pay increase of 1.6 per cent a year.