The policy is more than just an economic prescription for our primary industries. It is about ensuring that the often neglected rural communities receive a fair and reasonable access to educational and health services.

Strengthen the Biosecurity Act to provide greater border protection and enhance New Zealandís clean green image and in doing so take advantage of new overseas marketing opportunities

Ensure majority New Zealand ownership of agricultural land

Actively support the role of research and development in the sustainability of primary industries and the ongoing development of new niche industries

Recognise the diverse needs of rural communities, including emergency management, transport and social service needs

Emphasise community based programmes, together with contestable regional development, to assist the revitalisation of rural communities

Promote a strong and viable economic policy framework to underpin the role of primary industries as our major export earners

Recognise the need for particular industry reforms and initiatives in the wool sector

Ensure there are clear net benefits to New Zealand before taking unilateral action to open our markets.

United Future will introduce a livestock taxation regime in line with the present forestry industry tax system and encourage innovative methods of improving livestock breeding and production.

Wool:

United Future will establish a more effective industry structure for wool to encourage greater industry unity, better marketing and a greater commitment to research and development. The overall objective will be improved returns to producers and manufacturers of woollen products.

Forestry:

United Future will provide extra research and development funding

Introduce intensive opossum eradication policies and greater monitoring of forest pests, weeds and diseases

Incorporate forestry industry perspectives into new initiatives.