Government work programme checks out for business

Government work programme checks out for business

The surprising quality of today's speech by the Prime Minister is the balance between its business focus and strong set of social initiatives, said Kim Campbell, chief executive of the Employers and Manufacturers Association.

"Business is in tune with both," he said.

"We are pleased to hear a further round of cuts to ACC levies is on the way, the reassurances given to pass the Employment Relations Bill, and the enforcement of minimum employment standards.

"Though we're onside with the new health and safety law we are working with officials to fine tune its regulations to make sure it will work well for today's workplaces.

"Business fully supports the trade agenda, the expansion of UFB, and the responsible and careful exploration of our minerals estate.

"New Zealand's investment in R&D is still well below the OECD average and though we support the present measures to increase it more rapidly, there are other options in addition to the government's grant schemes that would help accelerate it.

"Overall the programme recognises all New Zealanders want a fair go, and the emphasis being placed on getting more people into jobs will go a long way to achieving that."

ends

© Scoop Media