Full Breakdown
Winston Peters Vows to Repeal Newly Enacted Regulatory Standards Act
11/20/2025, 8:13:06 AM
Overview of the Regulatory Standards Act
The Regulatory Standards Act, which recently received royal assent, has sparked significant political contention in New Zealand. This legislation establishes a Regulatory Standards Board tasked with evaluating the consistency of legislation with proposed regulatory principles. While the Act aims to enhance transparency and improve the quality of regulation, it has been criticized for potentially undermining parliamentary authority by introducing an unelected body into the legislative process.
Peters' Opposition and Promises
Winston Peters, leader of the New Zealand First party, has pledged to repeal the Regulatory Standards Act if his party is elected in the 2026 general election. Peters has expressed strong opposition to the Act, labeling it a "terrible overreach" that imposes unnecessary intervention in a democratic system. He argues that the powers granted to the Regulatory Standards Board create a scenario where elected officials are subject to oversight by an unelected group, which he likens to a "Star Chamber."
Peters stated, “You’ve only got so many cards. We did our best to neutralise its adverse effects, and we will campaign at the next election to repeal it.” He further criticized the Act for its perceived prioritization of private property rights and its failure to adequately consider Te Tiriti o Waitangi (Treaty of Waitangi).
Political Reactions and Coalition Implications
David Seymour, leader of the Act party and steward of the legislation, has defended the Act, asserting that it was designed to improve regulatory transparency and effectiveness. He noted that amendments made to the board's structure were in response to concerns raised by New Zealand First, aiming to enhance the board's independence. Seymour remarked, “What’s clear is that this is a landmark piece of legislation that Act would never vote to get rid of.”
Seymour has suggested that Peters' promise to repeal the Act indicates a potential shift in political alliances, implying that Peters may be positioning himself for a coalition with the Labour Party. Peters dismissed this notion, stating, “Don’t make me laugh,” and criticized Labour for lacking a clear position on the legislation.
Criticism and Concerns
The Regulatory Standards Act has faced scrutiny for various reasons, including its perceived unnecessary nature and the potential for it to disrupt established regulatory practices. Critics argue that the Act does not legally bind lawmakers to adhere to the principles it outlines, which raises questions about its overall efficacy. The Act is part of a coalition agreement between the National and Act parties, which emphasizes the need for regulatory decisions to be based on principles of good law-making and economic efficiency.
Verbatim Quotes
- “I’m making it very clear where we stand. We believe in the fundamental principles of democracy and the paramountcy of Parliament – not an unelected committee.” — Winston Peters, NZ First Leader
- “What’s clear is that this is a landmark piece of legislation that Act would never vote to get rid of,” — David Seymour, Act Leader
- “The next election we will be campaigning against it, and we’ll get rid of it.” — Winston Peters, NZ First Leader
Conclusion
As the political landscape evolves, the fate of the Regulatory Standards Act remains uncertain. Winston Peters' commitment to repeal the legislation underscores the ongoing debate over the balance of power between elected officials and regulatory bodies in New Zealand's governance.
