Frigate decision a political one— M.P.

Press, 21 July 1988, Page 3

Frigate decision a political one— M.P.

By DAVE WILSON Political, social and economic reasons were yesterday cited by the member of Parliament for Sydenham, Mr Jim Anderton, in calling for the refit of H.M.N.Z.S. Southland to be awarded to a New Zealand contractor.

In a public statement also given to the Minister of Defence, Mr Tizard, Mr Anderton said the decision on whether a British or New Zealand firm won the tender was a political, one and it could not be made on narrow financial grounds. Nor could it be made on any traditional Armed Forces view that Britain would do the work better.

Mr Anderton’s remarks followed up a statement by Mr Tizard in which the Minister said the frigate tender would go to the firm with the best price, as well as considering what was the best deal for New Zealand. Mr Anderton said Canterbury had the best claim and the greatest need for the refit work.

“Its engineering industries r’ have taken a hammering from the downturn in the domestic market, high and volatile interest and exchange rates, as well as from the retrenchment and rationalisation of major firms back to large market locations like Auckland.

“The award of the

Southland contract would not only be a boost to the engineering industry in this region but would provide the opportunity to develop new skills and broaden the base of activity into major ship maintenance and refit work.” Mr Anderton and two other Christchurch members of Parliament who have been lobbying for the refit, Dr Peter Simpson (Lyttelton) and Mrs Margaret Austin (Yaldhurst), will visit Lyttelton tomorrow. The Christchurch members of Parliament hope to meet Mr Tizard before the tender decision is made. The decision is expected about the end of the month. % £