When, if ever, has the written guidance, policy, or framework governing the process for granting launch licences and payload permits been updated to address circumstances where the security Ministers the Minister must consult under the Space Act are both portfolios he holds, namely the Minister responsible for the New Zealand Security Intelligence Service and the Minister responsible for the Government Communications Security Bureau?

Answer

The advice I receive from these portfolios is generated through separate and independent processes and reporting channels. The separation of these processes ensures balanced and informed decision-making. When these portfolios were first held by the same Minister the briefing 2324-1179 ‘Space payload permitting and national security consultation’ outlines the approach used in advice for each payload permit and launch licence application. The approach to consultation between the Minister for Space and Security Ministers under the Outer Space and High-altitude Activities Act 2017 has not been updated since the briefing was signed on 16 December 2023.