New Zealand Government Delays Gene Technology Bill Again

Prime Minister Christopher Luxon has clarified that the delays surrounding the Gene Technology Bill are not due to the coalition partner New Zealand First, but rather the government’s commitment to thoroughly addressing the complexities of the legislation. Originally scheduled for a report by the health committee on July 31, 2023, the timeline has been extended twice, with the latest deadline set for October 10.

The proposed legislation seeks to relax New Zealand’s long-standing restrictions on gene technology, effectively ending a 30-year ban on its use outside laboratory environments. A new regulatory framework would be established within the Environmental Protection Authority, which would recognize comparable regulatory bodies in other nations.

During the bill’s initial reading, New Zealand First expressed support but also raised concerns about where to draw the line regarding gene technology. Party members indicated they would closely examine the select committee’s findings before making any further commitments. Mark Patterson, a member of New Zealand First, emphasized the need to protect the country’s competitive advantage in being genetically modified organism (GMO)-free.

Feedback from key stakeholders, including food exporters, the organic sector, and consumers, is crucial. Patterson noted, “We must understand the trade-offs we are making. This is very much a risk-reward.” He highlighted that the implications of the bill are significant and require careful consideration.

The bill’s introduction by former science minister Judith Collins in December 2022 was framed as a necessary step to align New Zealand with international practices. Collins asserted that the proposed changes would not lead to a “free-for-all” in genetic technologies, but instead offer a regulated pathway designed to ensure public and environmental safety.

Opposition parties, including the Labour Party, the Greens, and Te Pāti Māori, have voiced their disapproval of the bill, which means that all three coalition partners must agree for it to progress. Labour’s science spokesperson Reuben Davidson remarked that the coalition seems unable to reach a consensus on fundamental aspects of the legislation. He expressed concerns that the proposal might be advancing too quickly without adequate consideration of its potential trade impacts.

Despite these challenges, Prime Minister Luxon remains confident that New Zealand needs to modernize its genetic engineering regulations. He stated, “We’re just taking a bit more time through the select committee process to make sure we get that drafted in the right way.” He reiterated the importance of getting the legislation right, cautioning against rushing through complex issues.

Luxon also affirmed that there is a commitment to pass the bill, ensuring it is both conservative and fit for purpose. He underscored the necessity for New Zealand to align with the 21st century in its approach to gene technology.

In contrast, Davidson expressed skepticism regarding the Prime Minister’s optimism, noting that the bill appears to have stalled once again. “It seems the bill has definitely had the handbrake pulled on, and not for the first time,” he stated, indicating ongoing uncertainty about the legislation’s future.

As the October 10 deadline approaches, the government faces mounting pressure to reconcile the differing views within the coalition while addressing the concerns of various stakeholders regarding the implications of the Gene Technology Bill.