17 August 2006

Kiwis stand up for Buy Kiwi Made

Green Party Community Economic Development Spokesperson Sue Bradford has welcomed New Zealand First's decision to join the rising tide of support for keeping the Buy Kiwi Made campaign focussed on supporting local manufacturing and production..

"In recent days, I've received a flood of support messages from all around the country and from right across the political spectrum. Ordinary Kiwis in rural areas, towns, cities, manufacturers, unions and now New Zealand First as well, have rallied around in support of our stance.

"I genuinely welcome and feel very grateful for the support I have been receiving from all walks of life, and from many different shades of political opinion. It indicates to me that there is nationwide support for the Green Party position, that we need to get in behind those firms who have made a commitment to make their goods in this country.

"That is the position I will be pursuing within the Green Party's ongoing discussions with Labour about Buy Kiwi Made. It helps to have New Zealand First coming on board, and I hope their support for us also helps to convince Labour that we all should be staying true to the original focus and spirit of the Buy Kiwi Made campaign, as negotiated between Labour and the Greens after the 2005 election.

"Buy Kiwi Made is all about supporting businesses and workers who make goods here in New Zealand. It is not -and never has been - intended to provide support for companies who have taken their production offshore. That is the message I will be taking into my further talks with Labour."

ENDS

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