Busy, Productive Year in Parliament: Over 50 Government Bills Passed

“This Government made clear promises to New Zealanders, and our record this year in Parliament shows we’re delivering on those commitments,” Mr. Bishop said.

Leader of the House Chris Bishop has hailed 2024 as a productive year for the coalition Government, highlighting significant legislative achievements aimed at rebuilding the economy, restoring law and order, and easing the cost of living.

"This Government made clear promises to New Zealanders, and our record this year in Parliament shows we're delivering on those commitments," Mr. Bishop said. Legislative Highlights of 2024

In its first full year, the coalition Government passed 52 Government Bills through their third readings, which are now law. Additionally, 83 Government Bills passed their first readings, and 47 Government Bills were reported back from select committees.

Key legislation passed in 2024 includes:

Fast-track Approvals Bill: Streamlining consenting processes for major regional and national projects.

Budget 2024 Legislation: Introducing tax relief for workers and the FamilyBoost childcare tax credit to support families.

Gangs Bill: Banning gang patches in public spaces to promote community safety.

Education and Training Amendment Bill: Reintroducing charter schools, with new schools set to open in Term 1, 2025.

Greyhound Protection Bill: Phasing out the greyhound racing industry with unanimous parliamentary support.

Mr Bishop praised the collaboration across Parliament for passing the Greyhound Protection Bill under urgency. "It was an example of Parliament at its best, showing what can be achieved when parties work together for the greater good," he said.

Parliamentary Achievements in Numbers

93 First Readings: Including 83 Government Bills, 1 Local Bill, and 9 Members' Bills.

60 Bills Reported Back from Select Committees: Including 47 Government Bills, 1 Private Bill, and 12 Members' Bills.

60 Third Readings: Including 52 Government Bills, 1 Private Bill, and 7 Members' Bills.

1,795 Papers Presented to the House by Ministers.

77 Question Times: Ministers answered 933 oral questions and thousands of supplementary questions.

87,147 Written Parliamentary Questions Answered: Reflecting robust accountability and transparency.

Looking Ahead to 2025

"The legislative programme for 2024 has been driven by our coalition agreements, the 100-day plan, and our quarterly priorities. It's been a year of progress, but there's much more work to do," Mr. Bishop said.

The House will reconvene in January, continuing its focus on delivering for New Zealanders.

Acknowledging Parliamentary Staff

Mr. Bishop extended his gratitude to the many individuals who ensure the smooth running of Parliament, including the House Office, the Parliamentary Counsel Office, cleaners, security staff, receptionists, the Parliamentary Library, Hansard, and others. He also thanked his colleagues on the Business Committee and Deputy Leader of the House Simeon Brown for their contributions.

"We're looking forward to another great year in the House, tackling the challenges ahead and continuing to deliver on our promises to New Zealanders," he concluded.