57
greater
present
adaptability. The competition, particularly in the
economic climate, will be fierce. The potential
rewards are correspondingly great.
(5) CONCLUSION
105.
I should like
to
conclude by restating the
address
essential messages of my
been a year of consolidation.
to you today. 1990 has
The 1990s will be a decade of
steady progress.
We face the immediate prospect of a
tougher trading environment and higher costs and prices. We
have faced difficult times before. We have always had the
ability to bounce back and to do so quicker than the rest of
the world. We must put ourselves in a position where we can
do. that again.
is essential that we retain Our
competitiveness
То do So, We must
It
in world markets.
minimise the effects of wage and price increases. In a free
enterprise economy, this means allowing market mechanisms to
operate efficiently. Public expenditure must remain under
tight control, but at the same time we must take steps to
protect those members of the community who are most
vulnerable to increases in the cost of living.
/106. Last