Availability ‘one of biggest assets’

Press, 12 November 1981, Page 13

Availability ‘one of biggest assets’

Rangiora's voters want a member of Parliament they can see about the electorate and can stop and talk to in the street, says Labour’s candidate, Mr Chris Hayward. He says that his availability is one of his greatest assets. He will work to his absolute capacity to preserve the family unit, bring a return to full employment, and attract regional development back to North Canterbury to make Rangiora "just that little bit better a place to live,” he says. Apart from unemployment and infiation. which loom as a huge challenge for the Government, Mr Hayward says tax reform and educa-

tion are other areas which need attention. Rangiora needs a positive policy on agricultural development and Mr Hayward says he is trying to learn about the vital role played by the agricultural sector in the community. He is

alarmed at the number of young New Zealanders migrating overseas or not productively employed and promises to assist young people wherever possible. The Springbok tour and the excitement of the Royal visit have clouded the real issues facing New Zealanders this election, he says. He is concerned that voters will have little time to weigh these issues and the Government’s performance in contrast to Labour's balanced

development policies before election day. Rangiora is a "highly marginal” seat and voters are well aware ■of the tactical use of their vote, says Mr Hayward. Mr Hayward, aged 27, is a secondary school teacher. He is serving his second term on the Rangiora Borough Council and is chairman of its community . . development committee. He has been active in local community activities for many years.