Government Struggles to Advance Controversial Gene Technology Bill

The New Zealand government remains committed to advancing the contentious Gene Technology Bill, despite facing opposition from coalition partner New Zealand First. Shane Reti, the Science, Innovation, and Technology Minister, emphasized that discussions are ongoing, and he believes there is potential for progress.

On August 28, 2023, Parliament’s Health Select Committee delivered a long-awaited report on the proposed legislation. The committee’s findings revealed a fractured stance, with Labour, the Greens, Te Pāti Māori, and New Zealand First collectively refusing to support the bill, even with suggested amendments. This opposition leaves the government lacking the necessary votes for the bill’s passage through Parliament.

The Gene Technology Bill seeks to amend sections of the Hazardous Substances and New Organisms Act to streamline the approval process for gene editing and genetic modification in both laboratory settings and agriculture. The National Party introduced this bill to dismantle what it referred to as “an effective ban” on these technologies in New Zealand. Reti has noted that discussions with New Zealand First have been constructive and anticipates that these talks will continue.

The bill’s critics argue that it could lead to an excessively permissive regulatory environment, positioning New Zealand as one of the most liberal countries regarding genetic engineering. Reuben Davidson, Labour’s spokesperson for science, technology, and innovation, expressed concerns that the proposed changes could turn New Zealand into a testing ground for genetic engineering (GE) trials prohibited elsewhere.

In a nuanced response, dairy industry leader Fonterra indicated conditional support for the bill. During its testimony to the select committee in March, the company stressed the importance of implementing stronger regulatory controls to mitigate risks, such as the potential for genetically modified cows to enter the national dairy herd inadvertently. Fonterra also raised alarms about the possible impact on organic farming, particularly concerning genetically modified rye grasses that could be challenging to contain.

New Zealand First’s report on the legislation highlighted its stance: while the party does not oppose the responsible use of GE technologies, it criticized the bill for being overly permissive and lacking robust safeguards. A spokesperson for New Zealand First stated, “The bill as it stands is far too liberal, beyond our key trading partners, and lacks strong safeguards and protections.”

Despite the challenges, Reti noted that all parties involved in the select committee acknowledged the need to modernize and update existing regulations. A spokesperson for New Zealand First confirmed that discussions regarding their concerns and issues with the bill would continue with their coalition partners.

As the debate unfolds, the government faces significant hurdles in securing the support needed to advance the Gene Technology Bill, with broad implications for New Zealand’s regulatory environment surrounding genetic engineering. The outcome of these discussions will likely shape the future of gene technology in the country.