Plans for competitive economy welcomed by business

BusinessNZ welcomes the announcement of a new Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment.

Chief Executive Phil O'Reilly says pooling and coordinating services and policy relevant to business within a single ministry makes a lot of sense.

"Reducing current levels of duplication will be appreciated by many enterprises.

"A single, dedicated business-facing government department, focused on delivering results, will be a great improvement on the current situation.

"A results focus where managers will be held accountable for achieving specific objectives, rather than just managing a department or agency, will better align the public sector with private sector practice.

"However, significant changes in the way the new merged ministry will operate will require close attention by Government to ensure the changes are implemented successfully."

Mr O'Reilly also welcomed the expectation that all transactions with government will in future be digital.

He said other expectations outlined by the Prime Minister today - including more people achieving NCEA level two and advanced trade qualifications - indicated the Government was serious about planning for a more competitive economy.