Government Faces Setback on Gene Technology Bill as Coalition Partner Withdraws Support

The New Zealand Government remains committed to advancing the controversial Gene Technology Bill, despite facing significant opposition from coalition partner NZ First. Science, Innovation and Technology Minister Shane Reti emphasized that discussions are ongoing and constructive, even as Parliament’s Health Select Committee presented a divided report on the bill.

The committee, which delivered its findings on Monday, revealed a lack of consensus. Key political groups, including Labour, the Greens, Te Pāti Māori, and NZ First, declined to support the bill, even with proposed amendments. This situation leaves the Government without the necessary votes to ensure its passage in Parliament.

The bill aims to reform sections of the Hazardous Substances and New Organisms Act, with the goal of simplifying approvals for gene editing and genetic modification in both laboratories and agricultural settings. It was initially introduced to fulfill a pre-election promise by the National Party to dismantle what they described as an “effective ban” on genetic engineering in New Zealand.

Opponents of the bill have voiced concerns that it could lead New Zealand to adopt one of the most permissive regimes for genetic engineering globally. Reuben Davidson, Labour’s spokesperson for science, technology, and innovation, noted in August 2023 that the proposed changes could position New Zealand as a testing ground for genetic engineering trials that would be prohibited elsewhere.

While some industry players, such as dairy giant Fonterra, expressed conditional support for the legislation, they also highlighted the necessity for stronger regulations. In a statement to the select committee in March, Fonterra underscored the potential risks of genetically modified organisms entering the national dairy herd undetected. The company cautioned that allowing genetically-modified crops could jeopardize organic farming methods, particularly due to the difficulty of containing GM materials to specific areas.

In its report, NZ First clarified its stance, stating that it is not opposed to the responsible and safe use of gene technology. However, the party criticized the current version of the bill as excessively liberal compared to regulations in key trading partner countries and lacking essential safeguards.

Despite the obstacles, Minister Reti remains hopeful. He noted that every party involved in the select committee acknowledged the need for modernizing existing regulations. A spokesperson for NZ First confirmed that the party plans to continue discussions regarding its concerns and issues around the bill with its coalition partners.

As the Government navigates this complex political landscape, the future of the Gene Technology Bill remains uncertain, reflecting broader debates on how to balance innovation with public safety and environmental stewardship in New Zealand.