DBH to be merged into new Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment

Prime Minister John Key announced today that a new Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment will be created.

Cabinet had agreed in principle to establish the new Ministry, which will absorb the functions of the Ministry of Economic Development, the Department of Labour, the Ministry of Science and Innovation, and the Department of Building and Housing.

Independent Property Managers Association president Martin Evans said he was very surprised to hear the Department of Building and Housing could be merged.

"This is the Government Department that landlords rely on and they set down the rules for renting. Over the years we have regarded them as the best Government Department they have had such good customer service."