31 May 2002

For the sake of business certainty....

- If an early election is on the cards, a firm date needs to be announced without further delay.

On the other hand,

- If Government intends governing for its full term, this needs to be reaffirmed.

Michael Barnett, Chief Executive of the Auckland Chamber of Commerce, said the unbridled speculation about an early election was starting to impact on business decision-making.

“It is a fact of business life that when political uncertainty creeps into the market, businesses start putting off decisions - people who might be employed are left waiting, investment calls are delayed, decisions on market visits are postponed.”

“Government could help business by taking a firm call on the election day - if it’s going to be in the next two months, please say so. If the full term is the intention, say so...and let’s all get back to work.”

Ends

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