Where’s the plan, Mr Mapp, where’s the plan?
Tinkering around the edges of Research, Science and Technology funding simply indicates that Wayne Mapp, like the rest of the Key Government, has no plan for the future, David Shearer, Labour’s, Research, Science and Technology spokesperson, said today.
“All the companies I have visited over the past year were excited about Labour’s 15% tax credit. They want it back. It was a culture change that allowed them to take more risk, be bold,” David Shearer said.
“Now we have grants administered and given out by the government. This is a stingy, stifling, ad hoc, small-minded, government-controlling policy that will not drive innovation.
“New Zealand has one of the smallest private sector R & D spends in the Western world, one third of the OECD average.
“Adding to this parlous state of affairs, the Government has decided to merge MoRST and FRST at a cost of six million dollars, none of which will be recouped in the first five years.
“There is no plan and there is no strategy. No attempt is being made to search for an inspirational leader to head the new Ministry of Science and Innovation.
“It’s time for Wayne Mapp to be bold and take advantage of this opportunity to make a difference” David Shearer said.
