The Green Party is calling on Cabinet to stop the Regulatory Standards Bill, after only 19 of a total 208 submissions heard over the course of last week’s submissions process supported the Bill.

“It couldn’t be clearer that by a huge proportion, New Zealanders do not want this Bill passed,” says the Green Party’s Regulation Spokesperson, Francisco Hernandez.

“Christopher Luxon and his Cabinet should see the writing on the wall here, listen to the people of New Zealand and put a stop to this deeply unpopular legislation.

“An emphatic 87% of submitters opposed the bill, and only 9% were for it. What’s the point of all that consultation if it’s going to be ignored anyway?

“After all those hours, all that engagement, all those expert submissions, to go ahead and pass this legislation shows this government's lack of interest in listening to expertise and experience. It’s also hugely wasteful.

“Where are Seymour's yellow tape scissors now? Likely dulled by all the cuts being made to crucial public services.

“This Bill risks causing deep divisions, not least because of constitutionally significant ramifications for Te Tiriti o Waitangi and for Aotearoa, which is why the Waitangi Tribunal has warned it is a violation of the Treaty.

“As lawmakers we must listen to the overwhelming evidence, the mass of public opinion and expert advice. Stop this Bill now,” says Francisco Hernandez.

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