Economy is National’s concern

Press, 23 November 1981, Page 23

Economy is National’s concern

MRS MARGARET MURRAY.

Employment, taxation, and the economy generally are the issues in this election, according to the National Party's candidate. Mrs Margaret Murray. She said that industry in Yaldhurst was striving to export either directly or indirectly and that this export drive had to continue. Agriculture in the past had provided an overseas income to give New Zealand the way of life it enjoyed. Manufacturing which had passed the $lOOO million mark in export income, was now making a significant impact. • New Zealand had to pro-

cess its agricultural products. expand horticulture by irrigating, and use Kiwi ingenuity to develop new technology for the domestic and international markets. It was

inportant to develop Christchurch Airport as an employing base for Air New Zealand and .as an entrance for tourism in the South Island. New Zealand had to break its dependence on imported oil. The development of the Clutha and Upper Waitaki hydro-electric power schemes would mean that the Government would be able to create employment by using that electricity in the South Island. The 25 per cent reduction in charges to South Island industries was “an excellent development incentive."

Only growth in the economy could create more permanent jobs. Returning to long-term full employment was National's aim. Tax reform would come when the Government's task force on taxation reports back to the Government early next year. Mrs Murray is aged 39. She is married and has three children. She has been a Waimairi County councillor since 1977. serves on the air pollution committee of the Canterbury United Council, and was appointed last year to the Christchurch Teachers' College Council.