Coalition at odds over move-on orders bill changes, but pushes ahead anyway
The New Zealand government is moving forward with a bill on 'move-on' orders despite internal disagreements within the coalition. While the National Party supports the bill, they are unhappy with amendments regarding the definition of begging and police enforcement powers.
Why it matters
The legislative process reveals the complexities of coalition governance and the ongoing debate over balancing public order with civil liberties.
As previously reported by RNZ, the select committee has recommended lifting the age of people move-on orders could apply to - along with a range of other changes.
However, Justice Minister Paul Goldsmith has indicated National is unhappy with some of those other changes, which the government will progress after ACT backed them alongside opposition parties.
Instead of applying to begging, the terminology is changing to "unreasonable begging", fines for those who fail to move on are being halved to $1000, and a loophole that may have excluded freedom campers from any prosecution is being closed.
Goldsmith said National was comfortable with the changes around ages, reduced fines, freedom camping and a review after three years.
However, the change to the definitions around begging and returning to the area "we're not pleased with".
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