The Government has announced a new work programme to find ways for its three border control agencies to work together more effectively.

Primary Industries Minister David Carter, Customs Minister Maurice Williamson and Immigration Minister Nathan Guy, said in a joint statement, Future Directions For The Border Sector, the three agencies were stepping up work to make trade and travel more efficient through better co-ordination of border services, with lower costs for industry and government.

Mr Carter said with $80 billion of exports and imports, and 10 million travellers across the border each year, New Zealand’s biosecurity system is a top priority.

The announcement has been greeted with a mixed response.

Horticulture New Zealand’s president Andrew Fenton says he is always pleased to hear Minister Carter say Biosecurity is a top priority, but HortNZ’s concern was the focus of the review was on efficiency rather than effectiveness. Mr Fenton said the focus on efficiency gains could actually increase the risk of pest and disease incursions.

Federated Farmers vice-president Dr William Rolleston said he applauded the move, but was concerned the emphasis on streamlining and efficiency is in the wrong place.

It is better to have a few disgruntled tourists than to deal with an outbreak of foot and mouth disease, he said.