Hon GRANT ROBERTSON: The New Zealand Institute of Economic Research's (NZIER) Quarterly Survey of Business Opinion was released this morning and showed that business confidence had stabilised in the March quarter, albeit at lower than long-run averages. Firms reported further weakening in their own activity but remain optimistic of recovery in the June quarter. They remain positive about hiring, with a new 23 percent planning to hire in the next quarter, while they have pared back some of their investment plans. The NZIER said the survey showed the damage that the global pandemic is continuing to inflict on the economy. There is going to be ongoing volatility as businesses work through inflation pressures caused by global factors. We will continue to support them, New Zealand households, and the rest of the economy as we ease the restrictions and open borders to skilled workers and tourists that will help our businesses recover and rebuild.