Plans to improve New Zealand’s laws and regulations have been welcomed by BusinessNZ.

Regulatory Reform Minister Steven Joyce today announced plans to require higher performance from regulators, better processes for reviewing laws and regulations, and removal of redundant laws.

New approaches would also be used, including more use of exposure drafts to allow the public to respond to proposed legislation while it is being drafted, and more transparency around fee-setting by agencies that recover costs for services.

BusinessNZ Chief Executive Phil O’Reilly said the Government’s intentions were extremely positive.

“Business has been seeking improvement to the regulatory system in New Zealand for some years, and it is good to see the Government moving towards this goal.

“Improving the system, along with the commitment to better public services, has great potential for improving the environment for economic growth.

“We look forward to working with government agencies to help achieve better quality regulatory outcomes,” Mr O’Reilly said.