Bill Removes PHARMAC Exemption From Commerce Act

Heather Roy Thursday, 8 December 2005 Press Releases - Health

ACT Health Spokesman Heather Roy is delighted that her Bill to remove PHARMAC's exemption from Part 2 of the Commerce Act has been drawn from the Ballot today, and will be debated by Parliament.

"My Member's Bill amends the New Zealand Public Health and Disability Amendment Act 2000," Mrs Roy said.

"The debating of this Bill is timely, in light of the anticipated review of PHARMAC and its functions.

"The original rationale for the exemption no longer applies in the current environment and therefore the justification for PHARMAC continuing to benefit from the exemption is no longer sustainable.

"PHARMAC has frequently commented that it does not use the exemption, which makes this amendment even more appropriate, and I anticipate PHARMAC's support for my Bill.

"The Commerce Act is a core foundation of the New Zealand economy and all business conducted in New Zealand is covered by this Act. Any exemptions should be kept to a strict minimum and there must be a clear and continuing justification for those exemptions," Mrs Roy said.

"PHARMAC's actions in undertaking drug purchasing activities should be subject to the same scrutiny as others in the market place.

"Removal of PHARMAC's exemption from Part 2 of the Commerce Act means that PHARMAC, like all other agencies of the Crown, will be subject to the Commerce Act when engaged in trade," Mrs Roy said.

ENDS

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