"David's back" as the new Minister for Primary Industries

Federated Farmers is more than pleased to see the Hon David Carter appointed the ‘new’ Minister for Primary Industries, with the Hon Nathan Guy appointed as his Associate Minister

“It’s very much a case of “David’s back,” but with a new super ministry for primary industries,” says Bruce Wills, Federated Farmers President.

“The fact Federated Farmers called for and got a Ministry for Primary Industries is significant. Having the word ‘for’ in the title defines it as an active partner; one that will help us build capacity and capability right across our world beating agricultural system.

“The primary industries account for over half of all New Zealand’s foreign exchange earnings and over 70 percent of known merchandise exports. In terms of these earnings, the primary industries are some three times larger than tourism.

“The Federation also congratulates the new faces either entering Cabinet or as Ministers outside of Cabinet. We’ll be writing to them to offer our congratulations.

“Having Mr Carter back will provide vital continuity from the old MAF. We believe he will be ably assisted by Mr Guy, who’ll bring his own agricultural and political experience as Associate Minister.

“I think all farmers will also congratulate Mr Guy on his promotion to Cabinet. With the Hon David Carter, it will continue the tradition of having two Cabinet Ministers specifically representing primary industries at the nation’s top table,” Mr Wills concluded.