Population and industrial development grew markedly after the Second World War, an increasing proportion of the labour force being employed in the manufacturing industries, in building and construction, in transport, and in finance and distribution. It was apparent that if the existing standards of living were to be maintained industry would have to be further developed. Official announcements by successive Governments made it clear that the tariff was to be used to protect domestic industry. In framing the recommendations on which the 1962 tariff was based, the Board of Trade studied the need to safeguard avenues of employment for the increasing population. Thus the new tariff is designed to give reasonable protection to sound industries and to encourage the growth and diversification of the manufacturing industry in New Zealand.