Ivan Yates
Question:46 Mr. Yates asked the Minister for Finance if he will establish a consultative committee to advise the Government and Central Bank in relation to exchange rate policy as has been requested by the representatives of exporters.
Written Answers. - Establishment of Consultative Committee.
I do not propose to establish such a committee. As Minister for Finance, I have the responsibility to decide exchange rate policy after consultation with the Central Bank. In carrying out that responsibility I obtain the advice of my own Department; I also listen to the views of many interested parties, including exporters. In these circumstances I do not consider that establishment of a consultative committee is necessary.
Besides, there are other fora where exchange rate policy is discussed. For example, recently the National Economic and Social Council, on which all the social partners are represented, considered exchange rate policy in the context of their report entitled A Strategy for Competitiveness, Growth and Employment. Another committee would not add to the formulation of policy in this area.