| 2oth June 2007 |
AMENDMENTS TO THERAPEUTIC PRODUCTS BILL UNDER CONSIDERATION
HEALTH-REGULATION
333 words
Jun 18th 2007 5:58pm Politics/Politics
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Wellington, June 18 NZPA - Discussions are continuing over the problematic Therapeutic Products and Medicines Bill, which appeared to have reached an impasse last week when a select committee said it could not recommend it be passed.
The select committee reported back on Friday, saying it could not reach agreement over the bill, which would establish a joint Australia/New Zealand regulatory regime.
The Government has already signed an agreement to establish a joint scheme with Australia.
At the heart of opposition to the bill is the controversial inclusion of therapeutic products.
Many have argued the bill would put unnecessary restrictions on the complementary products industry, with compliance costs squeezing out smaller operators.
New Zealand First leader Winston Peters said last week he would table a standing order paper, outlining a resolution to the impasse that would suit everyone.
The proposal would see New Zealand companies that wished to only trade in New Zealand exempt from the trans-Tasman scheme, and governed by a New Zealand regulatory regime.
At her post-cabinet briefing today, Prime Minister Helen Clark said the Australian government was aware of the proposal and discussions were continuing.
The Australian government remained "extremely co-operative and keen to see the treaty which was signed between the two countries actually implemented," she said.
Miss Clark said she understood Mr Peters' amendment would still not shore up National Party support.
Both National and the Green Party have said they would like therapeutic products exempt from the bill, operating under a New Zealand regulatory regime.
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