7 September 2006

World Bank confirms NZ regulation on the right track

Commerce Minister Lianne Dalziel says the latest World Bank survey confirms New Zealand is on the right track in its review of the regulatory environment so that business can get on with business.

"The Quality Regulation Review is doing just what the World Bank suggests the top reformers should be doing to create a climate where business and economic growth is fostered," she said.

"The review mirrors the World Bank's four steps to successful reform: first, start simple and consider administrative reforms that don't need legislative changes; then, cut unnecessary procedures and interactions with bureaucracy; introduce standard application forms and publish as much regulatory information as possible; and, finally, improve the way regulations are administered – for example, by using the internet so people can get on with the job in their own time and at their own convenience," Lianne Dalziel said.

"This review is looking at ways the many arms of government can extend a single hand to business to cut down on unnecessary paperwork and duplication."

The latest World Bank rankings of the world's top reforming countries shows New Zealand in second place behind Singapore for ease of doing business, out of 175 countries surveyed.

"It's good to know that the Labour-led government's economic transformation agenda is moving ahead according to internationally accepted best practice."

"Since the review began in May I have been talking to business people around the country to hear their ideas for improving our regulatory environment, to make their lives easier, and to encourage innovation and growth. That's why I'm meeting key business people in Christchurch today," Lianne Dalziel said.

ENDS

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