Tony Ryall National Economic & Regional Development Spokesperson

17 December 2001

'Fast Forward' to another turf war

The turf war between Industry New Zealand and Trade New Zealand continues with Jim Anderton's announcement of yet another pilot programme for business, says National's Economic Development spokesman Tony Ryall.

"Once again, we see an example of the on-going row between two government agencies, and business is the loser.

"Both Industry New Zealand and Trade New Zealand see themselves as leading export market development. They have been jockeying for supremacy for months, and this announcement today is just another shot from the Anderton side.

"Labour and Trade New Zealand are beaten off again.

"The overriding "national criteria" approach shows that the Government still hasn't thought through the need for different solutions for different regions.

"What's needed is a fresh look at all the myriad of funding streams and agencies supporting economic and regional development. This ad hoc approach will end in tears," says Mr Ryall.

Ends

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