New Zealand’s recently inaugurated Prime Minister, Christopher Luxon, unveiled an ambitious agenda for his initial 100 days in office, outlining 49 actions to be taken by his conservative government. Among the notable proposals are the prohibition of cellphone use in schools and the rollback of tobacco controls.
Luxon emphasized that the foremost legislative priority would be amending the central bank’s mandate, focusing solely on maintaining inflation at bay. This shift would depart from the Reserve Bank’s existing dual focus on both low inflation and high employment.
A significant portion of the 100-day plan involves the repeal of measures implemented by the previous Liberal government during its six-year tenure. One prominent initiative includes a commitment to double renewable energy production, aligning with Luxon’s emphasis on improving the country’s economic landscape.
However, certain aspects of the plan have generated controversy, notably the decision to rescind tobacco restrictions enacted by the prior government. These restrictions, slated to take effect next year, encompassed regulations such as low nicotine levels in cigarettes, reduced retailers, and a lifelong ban for youth. Luxon’s government contends that the removal of these restrictions will lead to increased tax revenue, with Luxon asserting that it doesn’t equate to prioritizing finances over public health.
Luxon defended the agenda, stating that the government is committed to maintaining the status quo and continuing efforts to reduce smoking rates throughout New Zealand. Nevertheless, critics argue that the move represents a setback for public health and a victory for the tobacco industry.
Two education-related proposals have also sparked discussion. One involves mandating schools to allocate an hour each day to teach reading, writing, and math. The other proposes a ban on cellphone use in schools, echoing sentiments from some voters who believe that educational institutions have strayed from their primary mission.
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Controversy extends to measures pertaining to ethnicity, such as the disbandment of the Māori Health Authority. While Luxon’s government asserts that these actions aim to treat all citizens equally, critics have labeled them as potentially discriminatory against Indigenous people.