#14: Economist Paul Dalziel: RSB Flawed Principles, No Standards

Coherent

Video episode available on my Substack.

Economist and Wellbeing Economy Alliance Aotearoa research fellow Paul Dalziel joins Melanie on Coherent to analyse the Regulatory Standards Bill — and explain why it’s deeply misaligned with the values and aspirations of most New Zealanders.

While the Bill presents itself as a tool for improving transparency and regulatory quality, Paul argues it is not fit for purpose. Drawing on his submission and decades of economic expertise, he unpacks the critical distinction between genuine regulatory standards and the vague principles laid out in the Bill — none of which set enforceable minimums or require compliance. He also reveals how the Government’s own analysis identifies no measurable benefits, despite a projected cost of $20 million per year.

Paul warns that the Bill privileges individual liberties and property rights above all else, distorting democratic decision-making and sidelining long-standing public interest values such as fairness, nature, dignity, and participation. The omission of future generations and te Tiriti o Waitangi from the Bill’s framework is especially troubling — as is its potential to inhibit necessary reforms through subtle pressure and fear of oversight.

This wide-ranging conversation covers:

• The difference between principles and enforceable standards — and why that matters
• What the Public Finance Act includes that the RSB leaves out
• Real-world examples of proportionate regulation in the public good, from clean air in Christchurch to charitable law
• The risk of regulatory chill and the weakening of public service culture
• Why omitting tino rangatiratanga from compensation clauses undermines justice for Māori
• A vision for a wellbeing-centred regulatory system based on international models like Wales’ Future Generations Act

Essential listening for anyone invested in democratic accountability, equity, and the role of government in creating a fair society.

Resources:

Sector Specific RSB Tool: https://tinyurl.com/RSBTool

Linktree with a wide range of historic and contemporary information on the RSB, including submission guides and builders.

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This is part of a series of in-depth conversations with experts across sectors on the real-world impacts of the Regulatory Standards Bill. If you value independent political analysis, subscribe to my Substack for more interviews, writing, and updates. Free subscribers get regular content. Paid subscriptions really help keep this work going.