Plain language law 'a solution looking for a problem' says National

Plain language law 'a solution looking for a problem' says National
But what does it mean? National finds the idea of plain language officers "particularly galling". (Image: Depositphotos)
Ian Llewellyn
A law requiring government departments to use plain language and appoint officers to police will soon be debated by MPs.The Plain Language Bill, sponsored by Labour MP Rachel Boyack, was recently reported back from the select committee with National MPs fuming at the new law.The bill would require government agencies to use plain language in documents and appoint plain language officers.The Public Service Commission will also issue plain language guidance and agencies will have to report on how they are complying.National MPs said in a minority...

More Law & Regulation

Air NZ backs mission-critical startup OneReg
Markets

Air NZ backs mission-critical startup OneReg

Airline's support boosts regulatory compliance startup's global ambitions.

Pattrick Smellie 20 Nov 2025
Director confirms police raid on family company
Retail

Director confirms police raid on family company

'The police searched the property for a considerable time ... '

Gregor Thompson 20 Nov 2025
Big banks eye warnings on legacy Open Banking technology
Finance

Big banks eye warnings on legacy Open Banking technology

Their interest comes with dawn of API-led Open Banking just weeks away. 

Andy Macdonald 19 Nov 2025
Congestion charge law draws political and commercial contest
Infrastructure

Congestion charge law draws political and commercial contest

A contest is on for contracts worth hundreds of millions of dollars.

Ian Llewellyn 18 Nov 2025