Media release 7 December 2001
Options for cutting red tape
Business New Zealand has welcomed the publication of Constraining Government Regulation, a report canvassing options
for cutting red tape.
Chief Executive Simon Carlaw says New Zealand's compliance regime resulting from excessive regulation is a particular
burden on small businesses that can least afford the time, expense and trouble involved.
"Regulations tend to grow in an ad hoc manner, with unintended negative consequences for business.
"Research confirms that the more economic freedom a country has, the more economic growth it achieves, and the richer
its citizens become.
"New Zealand's compliance regime has the overall effect of reducing economic freedom, with the unfortunate result that
our citizens are not as well-off as they could be.
"A systemic, back-to-principles review is needed, to help improve NZ's standard of living.
"I hope the options detailed in Constraining Government Regulation will receive careful consideration and debate," Mr
Carlaw said.
Contact: Simon Carlaw wk 04 4966555 or Kathryn Asare