Establishing a strong economy
MP’S COLUMN
ITALK to my South Waikato constituents on a regular basis about a variety of issues and one issue that comes up frequently is the state of the New Zealand economy.
Recently I have been visiting local businesses and working with the mayor to develop the local economy.
The National-led Government has a strong plan and a busy work programme to encourage investment, grow our economy and boost jobs for Kiwis.
We’re building on the momentum achieved during the past four years in Government. This is more important than ever in the face of continuing global uncertainty.
Our plan is working, with the economy continuing to grow, real jobs being created and confidence increasing.
Latest statistics show the economy grew 3 per cent in calendar year 2012, comparable to Australia’s 3.1 per cent growth. We’re well ahead of the United States with 1.6 per cent growth, 0.3 per cent in the UK and negative 0.9 per cent in the Euro area.
Manufacturing in New Zealand grew 2.7 per cent in 2012 and exports were up 2.1 per cent.
And spending on research and development by New Zealand businesses reached $1.2 billion in 2012 – up almost 25 per cent since 2010.
In its annual check-up of our country’s health, the International Monetary Fund has just given the tick of approval to National’s responsible management of the Government’s finances, one of our priorities this term.
The IMF says we’re getting it right with our balanced approach to supporting growth and reducing public debt.
So while Opposition parties are trying to talk New Zealand down and say no to jobs, National is moving to put the economy on a more competitive footing.
In particular, we have embarked on more than 300 initiatives to build export markets, innovation, skills, capital markets, infrastructure and better access to our natural resources, as part of our Business Growth Agenda.
This is helping give businesses the confidence to invest, grow and hire new staff. Real growth doesn’t happen until one more business invests another dollar, sells a better product or service, and hires another person.
In addition, our sensible fiscal and monetary policy is helping to keep interest rates and inflation low, which is benefiting businesses and households in not only South Waikato but across New Zealand.
National is busy, focused, and taking action. Our strong plan is helping build a brighter future for New Zealand families.