26 Oct 2008

Key wants to be Tourism Minister if National wins

6:01 pm on 26 October 2008

National Party leader John Key says he would also take on the role of Tourism Minister, if he is elected to lead the next Government.

He says the economy is not growing as fast as Australia's, and is losing record numbers of people overseas.

But Mr Key says the tourism sector could be part of the solution, by helping to promote a New Zealand brand.

He says it is potentially the country's largest export earner.

"It's about the branding of New Zealand, and for New Zealand to really grow and expand in an area where we have a competitive advantage."

Mr Key says he will give a speech later in the week spelling out his thinking in this area.

He also says food production and providing fast broadband Internet to homes would also encourage industry growth in New Zealand.