Kumasi, Jan 24, GNA - A call has been made to the government to implement the National Book Policy to strengthen the book industry because it stands the chance of turning the nation's economy round. Mr Prince Hagan, President of the Printers and Paper Converters Association for the Northern Sector, appealed to the government to strengthen the Ghana Book Development Council to support the implementation of the book policy.

He was speaking at the annual get-together of the association in Kumasi.

He commended the government for showing interest and supporting the book industry.

Mr Hagan pleaded with the government to give the local industry the necessary protection to enable it to grow because it has the capacity to compete equally with international publishing and printing industries.

Mr Edward Michel, Vice-President of the association, said last year was successful and fruitful for the association and appealed to the government to support them acquire equipment.