Labour policies

Press, 9 March 1988, Page 20

Labour policies

Sir, —Recent correspondence and news; reports have shown an encouraging awakening to the fact that economic policies which waste human resources through unemployment, and reduce the effectiveness of those who are trying to minister to human deprivations (for i example, by taxing them), are not only unjust but also uneconomic in the most fundamental sense. The things which actually make life worth living should be the objectives of any sane economic policy. The process |of boosting economic growth can be viewed in too narrow a context, such as increase in G.N.P. or reducing a budget deficit. To be compassionate and realistic, the emphasis needs to be on a right use of resources involving stewardship. We need economic decisions which iii the first place aim at resource's and new beginnings for those in need of work and fulfillment. This is not only charitable and just, it is first priority | for wise economic investment. — Yours, etc., JOHN D. CANHAM. March 6, 1988. Sir,—lt is clear why one of this Government’s first moves was to abolish the law restricting foreign j ownership of our land and assets. Now that its disastrous Economic polices have been proved unworkabale and brought the productive sector to its knees, our assets are to be sold to! pay for its folly. Thousands |of unemployed are outraged at Roger Douglas's decision to continue!policies which should be abandoned. How many jobs will be available to our workers if Coalcorp goes to a foreigner? Frighteningly, the colossal spending continues. Mr

Mqore’s travels have cost a million, Mr Stan Rodgers will not negotiate — but prints thousands of [booklets. Brian Elwood dictates his policies to locaFSuthorities which will prove very costly to! ratepayers. This dictatorial Cabinet must go — hopefully before Electricorp, Telecom and our health services are sold to coyer the money squandered daily. The latest Heylen Poll shows that the Government has no mandate for its actions. — Yours, etc., W. W. WRIGHT. March 4, 1988.