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the operation of our social-security system, the current financial aspect of which I have already discussed, much has been done to achieve an equitable redistribution of our national income so that provision is made by the healthy and the fortunate to assist in guaranteeing a reasonable share of production to the aged, the young, the widow, the ailing, and those engaged in the production of essential goods and services. Ours is a country more fortunate than most. It is, however, a country affected by international events and to a degree dependent upon economic changes in other countries. At the same time millions of other people are dependent on us for the maintenance of their standard of living. The standard of living of this and any country can be maintained and improved only by sustained and efficient production. The Government is representative of the people, and as such has the major responsibility for the increase of production and to facilitate the improvement of industrial methods. That, however, is a responsibility not for one central body alone, not for a few corporations or individuals alone, but is an obligation of every citizen. The team spirit has been well inculcated in our people, and there will be no more appropriate time than the ensuing years for energetic and enthusiastic efforts towards the building of a better New Zealand and a better world. The taxation concessions announced in this Statement will give relief where it is needed most. Further improvement in that regard will depend upon the productive efforts of all the members of the community. The theme which I have endeavoured to expound is that, until the effects of war are more fully dissipated, Ave must all make some sacrifice (in New Zealand it is not a heavy one) in the interests of further development and for the benefit of -ourselves, our successors, and our kinsmen and others overseas. Britain has asked us to produce and supply more; we can do so, and we should do so. By aiding Britain Ave aid ourselves. She is fasti increasing the volume of exports by A\ T hich she obtains the food and raw materials without which she cannot live, but she has a long and hard road to traverse. So far as lies in their poAver I believe our people Avill help and that New Zealand Avill live up to the reputation which has Avon for our citizens and country such a high place in the British Commonwealth and the world of nations.

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