Google challenges New Zealand's proposed legislation
Google confronts New Zealand over proposed legislation, warning of potential repercussions. In a blog post, Google revealed its intent to cease linking to news content on New Zealand websites, should the government mandate tech firms like Google to pay for news articles hosted on their platforms. Google New Zealand's director, Caroline Rainsford, highlighted Google's commitment to backing local media and pointed out how a local licensing program had yielded approximately $50 million annually for around 50 New Zealand-based publications.
The New Zealand authorities astoundingly proposed a law in July that would compel platforms like Google to split their earned revenues from news content with the corresponding media outlets.
Initially, the current conservative government was opposed to such legislation but had a change of heart due to the job losses of more than 200 individuals in the New Zealand media sector this year. The aim is to prevent marketing revenues from flowing out of the country. A related bill was already introduced by the preceding administration.
The New Zealand Publishers' Association criticized Google for making a threat with its announcement. "The government should have the power to enact laws to bolster democracy within this nation without succumbing to such coercion from a corporation," asserted spokesperson Andrew Holden.
In the summer, New Zealand's Minister of Broadcasting, Paul Goldsmith, publicized his objective to pass the law prior to the year's end.
Google's decision to stop linking to news content on New Zealand websites, as a response to the proposed legislation, has raised concerns within the local publishing sector. Regardless, New Zealand's Minister of Broadcasting, Paul Goldsmith, remains determined to push the legislation through parliament this year, emphasizing its importance in supporting local media and maintaining domestic revenue.
