Does the Minister agree with the statement in the Cabinet Paper, released on 1 July 2026, that "A series of tragic incidents over recent years, including multiple child deaths, demonstrates that non-regulatory interventions have not been sufficient to reduce harm. The absence of mandatory safety standards means New Zealand children remain exposed to risks that have been addressed offshore through regulation"; if so, why did the Government take until June 2026 to introduce mandatory safety standards?

Asked by

Arena Williams

Member for Manurewa · Labour Party

• Does the Minister agree with the statement in the Cabinet Paper, released on 1 July 2026, that "A series of tragic incidents over recent years, including multiple child deaths, demonstrates that non-regulatory interventions have not been sufficient to reduce harm. The absence of mandatory safety standards means New Zealand children remain exposed to risks that have been addressed offshore through regulation"; if so, why did the Government take until June 2026 to introduce mandatory safety standards?