Gene Technology Bill Delayed Again as Concerns Surface in Parliament

The progress of New Zealand’s Gene Technology Bill has been delayed once more, with Prime Minister Christopher Luxon stating that the government is taking additional time to ensure the complex legislation is thoroughly crafted. Initially set for a report back from Parliament’s health committee on July 31, 2023, this deadline has been extended twice, now pushing the expected date to October 10, 2023.

Despite the delays, Luxon refuted claims that coalition partner New Zealand First is obstructing the bill’s progress. He emphasized that the government is committed to getting the legislation right rather than rushing through it. During its first reading, New Zealand First expressed support for the bill but raised concerns about the appropriate boundaries concerning genetic technology.

The proposed legislation aims to ease New Zealand’s longstanding restrictions on gene technology, which have been in place for over 30 years. If enacted, the bill would establish a dedicated regulator within the Environmental Protection Authority, aligning New Zealand more closely with countries like Australia, Canada, and the United Kingdom that have already adopted these technologies.

Regulatory Framework and Industry Concerns

The new regulatory framework is designed to recognize comparable international regulators, allowing for more streamlined processes. Former science minister Judith Collins introduced the bill in December 2022, asserting that it would not lead to unregulated use of genetic technologies. Collins stated, “This change simply means that gene technologies have a pathway to regulatory assessment that is designed to ensure the public and environmental safety of New Zealand.”

In the initial parliamentary debate, Mark Patterson, a member of New Zealand First, reiterated the need for careful consideration, warning against compromising the country’s competitive advantage in the genetically modified organism (GMO) space. He emphasized the importance of feedback from food exporters, the organic sector, and consumers, stating, “We must understand the trade-offs we are making. This is very much a risk-reward.”

The coalition government, which includes Labour, the Greens, and Te Pāti Māori, faces significant opposition to the legislation. Labour’s science spokesperson Reuben Davidson indicated that internal disagreements within the coalition could hinder the bill’s progress. Davidson commented, “There isn’t a pathway within the coalition to support the bill,” suggesting that unresolved differences and uncertainty about the direction forward are complicating efforts to advance the legislation.

Government’s Commitment and Future Outlook

Despite these challenges, Luxon expressed confidence in the bill’s eventual passage, noting the government’s commitment to ensuring it is both conservative and fit for purpose. He remarked, “New Zealand really does need to get with the 21st Century and get this piece of legislation, and get the gene tech regulator set up. It’s just complicated work, and it’s important we get it right so we don’t make any mistakes.”

Furthermore, Shane Jones, who temporarily filled in for current science minister Dr. Shane Reti during discussions, described the bill as a “work in progress.” The Prime Minister’s public assurances of a smooth path forward have raised questions, with Davidson suggesting that the bill has encountered significant hurdles.

As the October deadline approaches, the future of the Gene Technology Bill remains uncertain, with various stakeholders keenly watching how the government navigates the complexities of genetic engineering legislation. The outcome could have profound implications not only for New Zealand’s agricultural and technological landscape but also for its reputation in the global gene technology arena.