HARD YEAR IN 1958

Press, Volume XCVIII, Issue 28783, 2 January 1959, Page 9

HARD YEAR IN 1958

“Repression And Frustration”

(blew Zeaiano Press Association) WELLINGTON, January 1. The last year hpd brought difficulties for many New Zealanders, said the leader of the Opposition (Mr Holyoake), in his New Year message today. “Our experiences in 1958 have given us a sharp and salutary reminder of the hardship, frustration and repressive measures we formerly endured in the 14 years of the first Socialist Government. “The announcement on New Year’s Day of the reimposition of import control, combined with heavy cuts in imports, was a bad beginning to the year. “It is true that there had been considerable overimporting towards the end of 1957. and indeed, this continued right up to Austust. But a similar problem was handled by the National Government in 1955 without resorting to rigid 100 per cent, import controls. “The result of exaggerated pessimism, and the desire to discredit the previous national administration, led to a mood of panic, which culminated in the Budget of black Thursday, June 26. No one will ever forget that Budget! Shortages “Import control has thrown many businesses into a state of confusion. Some have been put right out of business. Manufacturers are facing shortages of machinery and raw materials. “Drastic cuts have been made in guaranteed prices to farmers. “New records for heavy borrowing overseas, at record rates of interest, have been made and there has been high handed treatment of civil servants’ salary claims.

“Wage cuts rule for everyone through increased taxes and less overtime. Higher taxes have resulted in higher costs of living. “The smaller take-home pay and reduced spending power have both had their effect on business generally, and on the small shopkeeper in particular. “An increase in unemployment figures, and fear of an extension of this trend, have resulted. “Destruction of the basis of our defence system has come through the abolition of compulsory military training. “Pessimistic and exaggerated statements became the order of the day,” Mr Holyoake said. “No Mandate” “The Government has no mandate for many of the policies which they have been implementing. In fact most are in complete contradiction to the promises on which they were elected.” In 1959. said Mr Holyoake, taxes must be reduced. The rising cost of living must be firmly held. Industry must be freed from many of the heavy burdens and restrictions imposed last year. Businesses must be given encouragement to expand and create more and more jobs for New Zealand’s growing population. “Were the National Party given a further opportunity to govern New Zealand, we would immediately set about rectifying injustices and hardships, and to restore the maximum degree of freedom to our people.

“It is true we have our problems. We always had them. They will always be with us. But they are a challenge to us all. We have always overcome them in the past, and indeed have always emerged stronger than before. “I have absolute confidence in the future of New Zealand and our people. All we need is good leadership and confidence in that leadership.”