9. Dr PAUL HUTCHISON (National—Hunua) Link to this
to the Minister of Research, Science and Technology
What actions has the Government taken to improve business research and development?
Hon Dr WAYNE MAPP (Minister of Research, Science and Technology) Link to this
Last week the Prime Minister announced a $321 million package of spending on research, science, and technology. Of that funding, $234 million is for the business sector; it will boost research-intensive firms and provide new opportunities for smaller firms through a voucher scheme. It will also lead to better linkages between Crown research institutes, universities, and businesses. It will also provide postdoctoral fellowships, bring in international talent, and provide research infrastructure.
Dr Paul Hutchison Link to this
What reports has the Minister seen on the Government’s research and development initiatives announced last week?
Hon Dr WAYNE MAPP Link to this
I have seen many positive reports on the Government’s science package. Business New Zealand praised the initiative, stating that “the potential for high-tech manufacturing and services in New Zealand would be boosted.” NZBio said the initiatives were “positive and practical steps”. And the Royal Society said the announcements were “hugely empowering for scientists”. Even the Green Party said it was “a step in the right direction”.
David ShearerGiven that Australia’s 25 percent increase in research and development spending and its 40 percent tax credit for innovative companies are much greater than the Minister’s announcement, how does he expect we will be able to catch Australia, particularly when his announced funding is half of what Labour already had in place?
Hon Dr WAYNE MAPP Link to this
Labour’s package meant that New Zealand had to go into a huge deficit, and every week has to borrow $250 million. The National Government’s package is targeted, is focused on research and development firms, and, frankly, will be more effective.
Hon Dr WAYNE MAPP Link to this
The Government has increased the level of support for small businesses. For instance, we have the voucher scheme. But, in addition to that, we already have the existing TechNZ system, which is worth $55 million a year. Many, many small businesses have found it hugely helpful to their growth.
Given that he has cut $96 million from current research, science, and technology spending on other areas, which areas of science and innovation does he consider do not require funding?
Hon Dr WAYNE MAPP Link to this
There has been some reprioritisation; the details, of course, will be in the Budget. That is because this Government is focused on economic growth. The tradable sector, under the previous Government, had been flat since 2005. This Government was elected to turn that round.