Story perspectives

ACT's David Seymour Proposes Major Reforms to New Zealand Government

2/19/2026

Summary

Story summary

David Seymour of the ACT party calls for government reform in New Zealand, proposing to cap ministers at 20, each overseeing a single department.
He says the current system is inefficient and over-governed, and that merging ministries would reduce redundancy and improve accountability.
He notes challenges within his own Ministry for Regulation, but argues reforms would save money and boost effectiveness, a view supported by Public Service Commissioner Sir Brian Roche.

1 of 1

Story summary

David Seymour of the ACT party calls for government reform in New Zealand, proposing to cap ministers at 20, each overseeing a single department.
He says the current system is inefficient and over-governed, and that merging ministries would reduce redundancy and improve accountability.
He notes challenges within his own Ministry for Regulation, but argues reforms would save money and boost effectiveness, a view supported by Public Service Commissioner Sir Brian Roche.