Calls to keep plain language law as it heads for repeal
A law to enforce the use of plain language in official documents and on government websites is being scrapped over criticism it is achieving nothing more than extra costs and red tape, but proponents argue that's not true and the Act needs to stay.
The Plain Language Bill came into effect just over two years ago and requires government agencies to appoint a plain language officer, train staff to communicate using plain language and avoiding jargon, and report back annually to the Public Service Commissioner on how they have complied with the Act.
But the Public Service Minister Judith Collins says rather than solving anything, the requirements have created a bureaucratic nightmare, and has promised to repeal it.
Lynda Harris is the founder and chief executive of Write Group, a firm that helps organisations produce clear and easily understandable documents, and says scrapping the Act is a backward step.
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