Clare
CURRAN
Communications and IT Spokesperson
Associate Economic Development Spokesperson
19 March 2013 MEDIA STATEMENT
ICT sector stalled by Foss’ inaction
New Zealand’s ICT sector is being held back by Commerce Minister Craig Foss’ inaction on the Patents Bill, says Labour’s
Communications and Associate Economic Development spokesperson, Clare Curran.
“The National-led government is dragging its feet on a law change that would encourage our software industry to blossom,
as well as enable smaller international software developers to build their businesses in New Zealand.
“The Government’s stalling tactics, which have now lasted three years, are not going unnoticed. Its attempts to amend
the law to appease the concerns of big multinational software companies are costing Kiwi innovation dearly.
“The Patents Bill, which proposes an exclusion for computer software from being patentable, is widely supported by Kiwi
software developers as a way to encourage innovation.
“Labour understands ICT is an economic power-player. Trade in ICT goods and services is currently worth around 11% of
our GDP.
“In a survey released today, the industry itself highlighted insufficient local demand as a barrier to growth. The Government needs
to listen up.
“The ICT sector is an exciting emerging powerhouse in our economy. It deserves to be a priority on the Government’s
agenda.
“Craig Foss needs to stop sitting on his hands and back our software industry,” Clare Curran said.
ENDS