The Increased Penalties for Breach of Biosecurity Bill would double the existing penalty, upon conviction, for bringing illegal biosecurity items such as fruit into the country. Photo: 123RF
An opposition member's bill boosting penalties for biosecurity breaches has passed its first reading with near unanimous support.
In the name of National MP Jacqui Dean, the bill is aimed at deterring incoming visitors from bringing in illegal biosecurity items such as fruit or other food.
The Increased Penalties for Breach of Biosecurity Bill would double the existing penalty from $1000 to $2000, upon conviction.
It would also increase the on-the-spot fine for a false declaration from $400 to $1000.
The bill would also give immigration officers the discretion to refuse entry in some cases.
That would apply to holders of temporary entry class visas - like visitor, student or work visas - who breached the law, or did not comply with officers' directions or requests.
The Green Party was the only party to vote against the bill, telling Parliament it was not convinced it would have the desired effect of deterring would-be offenders. It also questioned whether it was the best way to bolster border security.
The legislation passed 110 votes to 10 and now goes to the Primary Production Committee for public feedback.