Gene Technology Bill Faces Further Delays as Debate Continues

The progress of New Zealand’s Gene Technology Bill has been delayed once again, with Prime Minister Christopher Luxon asserting that the government is taking the necessary time to refine the complex legislation. Initially, the Parliament’s health committee was scheduled to report on the bill by July 31, 2023. This deadline has since been extended twice, with the latest target set for October 10, 2023.

During the bill’s first reading, New Zealand First expressed tentative support but raised concerns about defining the boundaries of gene technology use. The party indicated that it would meticulously evaluate the select committee’s report before determining its continued support. If enacted, the legislation would relax New Zealand’s long-standing restrictions on gene technology, which have been in place for over 30 years, allowing applications outside laboratory settings.

The proposed changes would establish a dedicated regulator within the Environmental Protection Authority to oversee the use of gene technologies. The National Party has voiced its belief that New Zealand is lagging behind other countries, such as Australia, Canada, and the United Kingdom, which have already embraced these technologies. The new regulatory framework would also recognize equivalent overseas regulators, facilitating international cooperation.

Introduced in December 2022 by then-Science Minister Judith Collins, the bill aims to create a pathway for regulatory approval while ensuring public and environmental safety. Collins emphasized that the legislation would not compel the use of gene technologies but would provide a framework for those wishing to utilize them responsibly.

During the first reading, NZ First MP Mark Patterson highlighted the need for careful consideration of the implications of this shift, particularly regarding New Zealand’s competitive advantage in the global market. He stated, “We must not trade away our GE-free competitive advantage lightly,” urging that feedback from stakeholders in the food export sector and organic community should be prioritized.

The bill’s complexity has led to concerns among coalition partners, with members of the Labour Party, Greens, and Te Pāti Māori opposing the legislation. These parties argue that the bill advances too quickly without adequate consideration of potential risks. Labour’s science spokesperson, Reuben Davidson, suggested that the coalition may be struggling to reach consensus on the fundamentals of the legislation.

Davidson remarked that the bill may not find a clear pathway for support within the coalition, hinting at underlying disagreements. “There are still unanswered questions. The sector is still not comfortable about the lack of clarity and the lack of certainty,” he noted.

Prime Minister Luxon, while addressing the delays, expressed confidence that NZ First would not withdraw its support. He underscored that the government is committed to ensuring the legislation is well-crafted rather than hastily processed. “We’re just taking a bit more time through the select committee process to make sure we get that drafted in the right way,” Luxon stated.

He further asserted that the need for a gene technology regulator is urgent, emphasizing that “New Zealand really does need to get with the 21st Century.” Luxon acknowledged the bill’s intricacies, stating, “It’s just complicated work, and it’s important we get it right so we don’t make any mistakes.”

As the deadline approaches, the future of the Gene Technology Bill remains uncertain, with the coalition needing to navigate differing viewpoints among its members to secure a path forward. The ongoing discussions will likely shape the future landscape of genetic technology in New Zealand, balancing innovation with public safety and environmental considerations.