Members of the Wanganui Chamber of Commerce heard from 4 Whanganui electorate candidates about what they can offer businesses in Wanganui on Wednesday.

Chamber of Commerce president Warren Ruscoe’s opening speech outlined what the Chamber wants the political parties to take notice off.

“Issues such as roading infrastructure have been neglected by all Governments for the past thirty years.

“Likewise problems in the electricity and education sectors have their origins in policies implemented by Governments which have one way or another involved most of the political parties currently represented in the New Zealand Parliament.”

“Our purpose is therefore not to criticise past problems or performance but to recommend what needs to be done in the future by what ever Government emerges from the 2005 election,” he said.

Mr Ruscoe also touched on sustaining strong growth in the economy, improving New Zealand’s export performance, Controlling the size of Government, the Kyoto Protocol and restoring confidence in our education system.

The morning was a huge success with a turnout of 40 Chamber of Commerce members and non members.

The Candidates taking part were Jill Pettis,- Labour, Chester Borrows – National, Debbie Lucas – Progressive and John Milnes - Greens

Mrs Pettis said ‘the Labour party will focus on continuing the good growth Wanganui has had, and all their policies will be carried out with the big picture in mind.’ ‘No policy is done in isolation, the labour party thinks about business implications before they implement policies.’ She said.

National’s Chester Borrows said National gave the Chamber of Commerce a picture of a Party which is very business friendly incorporating measures such as ‘reviewing the ACC monopoly’.

Greens Party candidate John Milnes focused on sustainability with business & industry policy leaning towards a healthy. Environment.

Debbie Lucus of the Progressive Party said ‘Don’t vote for me’ however urged constituents to use their party vote to support Jim Anderton and preserve the regional development policies started four years ago in New Zealand.

Warren Ruscoe, Chamber President said “I think it was definitely worthwhile (The Forum) . It gave us a chance to hear & meet the candidates rather than read about them second hand through the media’