Press Release: National Distribution Union

Thursday, 9 August 2007, 9.50am

Textile union calls for explanation by PM on Clothes Labelling

The National Distribution Union wants the Prime Minister to explain signals given by her in Parliament yesterday of an end to country of origin labelling for textile, clothing and footwear products.

The NDU represents for textile, clothing and footwear (TCF) workers and says labelling has helped protect jobs in the industry as tariff reductions and free trade agreements take their toll.

In a question time response to Green MP Sue Kedgley asking about country of origin labelling on footwear and clothing, Helen Clark stated, "no doubt at some point, when we get to a situation of not applying tariffs, those rules of origin will also go".

"This statement will send another shudder up the spine of an already fragile TCF industry and the workers in that industry," said Maxine Gay, Textile and Clothing Secretary of the NDU.

"With a high dollar, high interest rates, reducing TCF tariffs and a proposed Free Trade Agreement with China, the TCF industry needs support, not a knife in the back from the Government.

"New Zealanders do want to know where their clothing and other products are coming from and the Government's own research shows they prefer to buy NZ Made," she said.

Even the Commerce Commissions website states that "When deciding to purchase goods, customers will often be influenced by the origin of those goods. They may prefer to buy New Zealand-made products, or believe that goods made in certain countries are preferable to others".

"Does the Prime Minister have a death wish for this sector? Last year she claimed that NZ designed clothes made in China should be included in the Buy Kiwi Made campaign. This year the Government stopped funds for Textiles NZ.

"We’ll be looking for support on this form the Government’s new Manufacturing Advisory Group,” says Maxine Gay.

On Tuesday EPMU secretary, Andrew Little and Business NZ CEO, Phil O'Reilly were appointed to chair this group.

ENDS

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