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Normally I would not post anything that I cannot confirm or substantiate in any way. I could not find any more reference to this by searching on the internet.
If anyone can shed some light on this issue it would be good to know.
On the face of it the possibilities are fairly dire - possibly a hidden provision in an Act that could be evoked if they chose to?
Food Bill: Threat to seed saving and natural medicines? Guy Ralls (Organic NZ, July/August 2011 Vol.70 No.4 Issue)
The Koanga Institute’s directors say the Food Bill is a “significant threat” to heritage seed saving networks, and that “any bill saying people can’t exchange food and plant material is fascist in intent.”
The Food Bill, which went through a submission process late last year, is likely to have its second reading in Parliament in the next few weeks.
Bob Corker and Kay Baxter spoke out following confirmation by lawyers that the Food Bill will criminalise people who exchange seeds, plant material or home-raised produce – even by giving these away – if they cannot afford or are otherwise not granted a government licence to do so.
MAF says that the Bill covers only food for sale for human consumption, and not seed (unless it were for human consumption) and that the definition of ‘sale’ includes bartering but not giving away.
“New Zealanders are losing their basic right to barter and exchange food and plant material,” says Corker.
“That’s crazy. How are they expected to put up with that rubbish?” Baxter also condemns as “laughable” the fact the WWOOFing would be outlawed.
The Bill could also affect the sale or exchange of rongoa – medicinal herbs.
“We now need to seriously look at its position in relation to seed sharing,” says Bob Corker.
“Our practices may need to be protected in a Claim of Right or even Maori Sovereignty.
This Bill is in breach of human rights.”
A copy of the Bill is available here.
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