Govt hopes to help efficient firms—M.P.

Press, 15 July 1987, Page 7

Govt hopes to help efficient firms—M.P.

The Government had accepted a responsibility to create the climate in which efficient manufacturing companies could prosper, said the Minister of Trade and Industry, Mr Caygill, in Christchurch yesterday. Speaking at the official opening of the tent and cover manufacturer, Johnson and Couzins’ new South Island plant, Mr Caygill questioned assertions that investment in New Zealand’s manufacturing industries had decreased during the last three years.

“It is not accurate. A changing economy has not resulted in a declining economy. Unemployment is still too high, but the growing economy will provide more jobs. “Many manufacturing companies have faced change during the last three years, but most have adjusted well, specially in the area of

C.E.R. with Australia.” The country’s textile industry remained a vital area of manufacturing. One which had continued to be the focus for longterm planning to increase its efficiency. The Government now intended to examine textile tariffs. Submissions had been called from the industry and a departmental review was being prepared. Mr Caygil indicated that the report could be completed by late August. “While companies must make investment decisions themselves, this Government accepts its responsibilities to create the right conditions for efficient companies to prosper in. “The opening of this new plant is a sign that this company believes in the future of textile manufacturing in New Zealand.” A mood of confidence

was also signalled by the company’s managing director, Mr Tony McCallister.

“The manufacturing industry in New Zealand has been faced by change and the most exciting period for decades. This company is confident in the future,” Mr McCallister told the Minister.

The new Sydenham building replaces the company’s former Moorhouse Avenue factory destroyed by fire last year.

Yesterday’s official opening also brought back memories for Mr Caygill who remebered his first childhood violin lessons and the canvas instrument case ordered from Johnson and Couzins. While music lessons

were not enthusiastically welcomed by the young David Caygill, he still owns the case.

“But I no longer play the violin,” he said.