The Gene Technology Bill was meant to come back from the health select committee on 31 July. That got pushed to 22 August, and now again to 10 October.
Prime Minister Christopher Luxon insists the delay is not political, just about “getting it right.” But Winston Peters says the issue is “far too complicated for a ten second reply” and has confirmed NZ First is still working through its caveats.
The bill would create a new gene tech regulator. Judith Collins says it won’t be a free-for-all, just a safe pathway for those who want to use the technology.
NZ First MP Mark Patterson warned against giving up New Zealand’s “GE-free competitive advantage” and wants stronger assurances from exporters, the organics sector and consumers.
Labour’s science spokesperson Reuben Davidson says it looks like the coalition can’t agree. “There’s bickering and a lack of clarity behind closed doors,” he told RNZ. He says the bill moves too fast and risks undermining trade without clear safeguards.
The bill has no support from Labour, the Greens, or Te Pāti Māori. That means National needs both ACT and NZ First onside to pass it, and NZ First seems to be dragging its feet.
Still, Luxon maintains the coalition is committed. “New Zealand needs to get with the 21st century,” he said. “It’s complicated work, and we don’t want to make any mistakes.”
Centerist