Businessmen Reminded Of “Need For Controls”

Press, Volume C, Issue 29635, 4 October 1961, Page 12

Businessmen Reminded Of “ Need For Controls”

(New Zealand Press Association)

AUCKLAND, Oct. 3. Modern society demanded some form of control over industry—the question was how many controls and how to manage them. The chairman of the Public Service Commission (Mr L A Atkinson) made this observation today fn an address to the Auckland Chamber of Commerce. The businessman who did not learn to live with controls would only develop ulcers, said Mr Atkinson. "You are taxed, you are licensed, you are regulated, and you are exhorted and cajoled,” he said. “But is it as bad as it sounds? In fact, do you object to some of these actions. In a whisper might I ask whether some of you do not ask for action on matters you criti. else—more protection, more licensing, more help and sympathy.” There was much talk about free enterprise, but Mr Atkinson reminded businessmen of the opposition from petrol resellers whenever an application was made for a licence to enter this trade. The issue of pharmacy licences had roused opposition and Mr Atkinson quoted *n example. He also doubted whether there was competition among oil companies. “Competition for service, but not for price.” he said. “One win wipe your wmdscren and one won’t"

If a form of licensing existed, business should accept it and live with it or fight to have it abolished. Government and industry must have a relationship of mutual understanding, said Mr Atkinson. There would always be some government in business and, he hoped, some business in the govern, meat.