New Zealand Government Stalls on Gene Technology Bill Amid Opposition

The New Zealand Government remains committed to advancing a controversial Gene Technology Bill despite significant opposition from coalition partner New Zealand First (NZ First). Science, Innovation and Technology Minister Shane Reti confirmed the government’s intent to pursue the legislation, which aims to liberalize the use of gene technology in agriculture and laboratory settings.

On March 11, 2024, the Health select committee presented its long-awaited report on the proposed bill, revealing a stark division among parliamentary parties. Labour, the Green Party, Te Pāti Māori, and NZ First collectively declined to support the bill, even with amendments suggested during the committee discussions. This lack of consensus leaves the government without the necessary majority to pass the legislation in Parliament.

Reti has been engaging in “constructive discussions” with NZ First, aiming to bridge the gap between differing viewpoints. The Gene Technology Bill is designed to amend parts of the Hazardous Substances and New Organisms Act, simplifying the approval process for gene editing and genetic modification. This legislative effort stems from a pre-election promise made by the National Party to dismantle what they described as an “effective ban” on such technologies in New Zealand.

Opponents of the bill express concern that it would shift the regulatory framework too far, potentially placing New Zealand among the most permissive regimes globally regarding genetic engineering. Reuben Davidson, Labour’s spokesperson for science, technology, and innovation, previously warned that the proposed changes could turn New Zealand into a testing ground for genetic engineering trials that are prohibited elsewhere.

During discussions, dairy industry leader Fonterra expressed conditional support for the legislative changes. In submissions to the select committee, Fonterra highlighted the need for stricter controls to mitigate risks, such as the unregulated introduction of genetically modified organisms into the national dairy herd. They raised alarms about the potential impact on organic farming due to challenges in containing genetically modified materials.

NZ First articulated its position in the committee’s report, stating that while it does not oppose the responsible use of genetic engineering technologies, the current bill is excessively liberal. The party emphasized that the legislation lacks adequate safeguards and protections that align with New Zealand’s key trading partners.

Despite the setbacks, Reti found some optimism in the fact that all parties involved in the select committee acknowledged the need for modernizing existing regulations. A spokesperson for NZ First indicated that discussions regarding their concerns and the bill’s implications would continue with their coalition partners.

As the government navigates the complexities surrounding the Gene Technology Bill, the future of genetic engineering regulations in New Zealand remains uncertain, hinging on ongoing negotiations and potential amendments to address the concerns raised by various political factions.