New Cabinet has the skill and nous needed to provide leadership and reform
Pulling New Zealand’s economy out of the recessionary ditch will be made easier thanks to the new Cabinet announced by
Prime Minister Designate John Key, according to Property Council New Zealand.
Connal Townsend, chief executive of Property Council, said the new Cabinet was brimming with Ministers who understand
the economic and infrastructure challenges that need to be addressed to return New Zealand to a period of sustained
economic growth and rising living standards.
“Property Council has been impressed with the Government’s acknowledgement that New Zealand needs to change if we are to
unshackle the economy. By giving the new Infrastructure portfolio to the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Finance,
Bill English, the Prime Minister Designate has confirmed that developing infrastructure that enables an increase in
economic productivity is a top priority.
“We are also pleased that reforming the Resource Management Act has been clearly signaled as a priority workstream,
which is evidenced by giving the Environment portfolio to sixth-ranked Minister Nick Smith. The broad thrust of the
National Party’s policy on resource management is sound and when enacted will enable New Zealanders to build and develop
without the vexatious litigation that destroys affordability,” Connal Townsend said.
The inclusive nature of the new Ministry should also enable the Government to pass important new legislation in a timely
manner, which will provide greater confidence to the commercial property industry.
“By having Act New Zealand, the Maori Party and United Future in the team, John Key has wisely expanded the Government
to ensure that it is broad-based and stable. Property Council looks forward to working with all Ministers to progress
changes that enable New Zealand to grow and prosper again.
“We are currently preparing briefing papers for a variety of Ministers, which informs the Government on key public
policy issues of particular significance to the commercial property sector. Our first paper is being drafted for the new
Minister of Local Government, Rodney Hide, which prosecutes the numerous failings of the local government sector as well
as articulating a series of legislative changes that would once again make that sector operate for the betterment of
ratepayers, as opposed to politicians,” Connal Townsend said.
End.