In the United States we have created a President’s Council, which is one example of government coordination of Year 2000 preparations. This has been a particularly useful tool for allowing further information sharing and disclosure, as well as speeding preparations. In spite of these efforts and examples of good practice, some countries will probably not be as prepared as we would hope.
Within domestic demand, monetary policy was picked on by the survey as being responsible but increased government spending and public consumption from the export earnings, both important factors contributing to strong domestic demand, were not clearly emphasized. Also, very importantly, the kina appreciated against the US and Australian dollars and the prices of fuel and food declined in the second half of 2008.