5. SUE BRADFORD (Green) Link to this
to the Minister for Economic Development
What reports has he received of reaction to the announcement of the $11.5 million Budget allocation for the Buy Kiwi Made initiative?
Hon TREVOR MALLARD (Minister for Economic Development) Link to this
The announcement of funding for the Buy Kiwi Made initiative has been well received. I have seen statements welcoming the initiative from local manufacturers, business groups, and the New Zealand Council of Trade Unions. I was particularly heartened by the comment from Davey Hughes, a business person in Levin, who welcomed the announcement and urged other businesses to get in behind it. Just because he is the cousin of a leading Labour Party member does not mean that he cannot be a leading business person as well.
Hon TREVOR MALLARD Link to this
I would point out, of course, that the Buy Kiwi Made initiative is much broader than the manufacturing sector. But the Government is working in partnership with industry leaders, manufacturers, and unions to develop an industry-wide strategy for manufacturing. The emphasis has been on what industry can do to make sure that it has world-class manufacturers.
Barbara StewartCan he confirm that the Buy Kiwi Made initiative is included in the confidence and supply agreement with New Zealand First?
Does the Minister agree that it is a sensible economic development policy for New Zealand to ensure that it is not import-dependent, especially in a world of pandemics, terrorism, biosecurity threats, and peak oil?
Hon TREVOR MALLARD Link to this
Encouraging New Zealanders to support quality local businesses is something all rational New Zealanders support. I note that the only opposition to that has come from ACT and the National Party—which confirms my view.