AM Edition: Here are the top 10 politics articles on LiveNews.co.nz for July 2, 2026 – Full Text
1. Private emails with lobbyists in Luxon’s Ministerial offices are potentially a systemic problem
July 1, 2026
Source: Green Party
The Ombudsman has confirmed the Prime Minister’s Office unreasonably withheld secret briefings, and the Green Party has obtained a new OIA showing the same private email problem in other Ministers’ offices, suggesting a potentially systemic problem across Government.
“New Zealanders have the right to know who is influencing political decision making, and how,” says Green Party Co-leader Chlöe Swarbrick.
“Regular people do not get to exchange secret emails with the Prime Minister’s top officials, getting the law ultimately changed in their favour. But that’s exactly what’s happened for this country’s biggest polluters, and Luxon continues to try and shrug it off as business as usual.”
“That should worry anyone who cares about democracy.”
The Green Party has separately obtained an OIA showing the office of Parliamentary Under-Secretary Simon Court received Beef + Lamb New Zealand RMA reform lobbying material on a non-work account in February, while that sector was pushing to reshape the Government’s resource management changes.
“One office is a problem. Two is a pattern. From climate law to RMA reforms in select big industries’ favour, Luxon’s Government is clearly getting far too comfortable ticking off lobbyist wish lists.”
“We invite the Prime Minister not to merely just remind everybody about the already existing rules, but strengthen them, to ensure this kind of behaviour ends.”
“The Greens are, as always, ready and willing to work across the aisle to improve the rules, support transparency, and uphold our democracy,” says Swarbrick.
Original source: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/07/01/private-emails-with-lobbyists-in-luxons-ministerial-offices-are-potentially-a-systemic-problem/
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2. Prime Minister’s Science Prizes announced
July 1, 2026
Source: New Zealand Government
Groundbreaking research in neonatal care that has saved thousands of lives worldwide is recognised among the winners of the 2025 Prime Minister’s Science Prizes.
Science, Innovation and Technology Minister Penny Simmonds congratulated the recipients at the awards in Wellington last night, recognising the impact of their work.
“These awards do more than recognise excellence in research, teaching and science communication – they celebrate the extraordinary contribution science makes to improving lives and shaping our future,” Ms Simmonds says.
“From next year, the Government is introducing a new category – the Prime Minister’s Innovation Prize – recognising individuals or teams translating scientific knowledge into real-world products, services and solutions that benefit New Zealand.
“Turning more Kiwi science and research into commercial success is a major focus of the Government’s reforms to our science, innovation and technology system, and I am delighted to see the impact that the 2025 prize winners are making.”
This year’s top prize was awarded to Professors Alistair Gunn and Laura Bennett, with Associate Professor Joanne Davidson of the University of Auckland, for pioneering research that has established therapeutic hypothermia as the global standard of care for newborn brain injury.
The award was made posthumously to Professor Gunn, who passed away in May. His work transformed treatment for babies affected by oxygen deprivation at birth, preventing death and lifelong disability, and saving thousands of lives worldwide. The achievements build on work on therapeutic brain cooling started by his mother, the late Professor Tania Gunn.
“These award winners are improving health outcomes, helping us better understand climate risks, inspiring young people, and supporting innovation that benefits New Zealand and the world.
Dr Luke Harrington of the University of Waikato received the MacDiarmid Emerging Scientist Prize for his work improving understanding of how climate change is influencing extreme weather events.
Associate Professor Nic Rawlence of the University of Otago received the Science Communication Prize for using his research on reconstructing past ecosystems to enhance public understanding of how climate change and human activity shape the natural world.
Nan Walden-Moeung of Wellington East Girls’ College received the Science Teacher Prize for her innovative integration of science, technology, design and cultural practice that significantly enhances student outcomes and engagement in science education.
Jesse Rumball-Smith of Wellington College received the Future Scientist Prize for developing a smartphone-based system to improve driver safety.
“From life-saving discovery to classroom innovation, these winners demonstrate the real-world impact of science and the importance of supporting our next generation of scientists and innovators,” Ms Simmonds says.
Notes to editors
The science start-up initiatives receiving Government funding are:
The Prime Minister’s Science Prizes have been awarded annually since 2009. The five prizes have a combined value of $975,000, supporting both recipients and ongoing research, education and development.
Details of the 2025 winners are below:
- Prime Minister’s Science Prize – Professors Alistair Gunn and Laura Bennet, with Associate Professor Joanne Davidson (University of Auckland): pioneering research in neonatal care that established therapeutic hypothermia as a global standard of care.
- Prime Minister’s MacDiarmid Emerging Scientist Prize – Dr Luke Harrington (University of Waikato): research into how climate change influences extreme weather events.
- Prime Minister’s Science Teacher Prize – Nan Walden-Moeung (Wellington East Girls’ College): innovative science education integrating technology, design and cultural practice.
- Prime Minister’s Science Communication Prize – Associate Professor Nic Rawlence (University of Otago): advancing public understanding of prehistoric ecosystems and emerging science issues.
- Prime Minister’s Future Scientist Prize – Jesse Rumball-Smith (Wellington College): development of a smartphone-based driver safety system.
- The additional award category – the Prime Minister’s Innovation Prize will be awarded from the 2026 round onwards. Further application details will be released by the Royal Society Te Apārangi later this year
For further information on the Science Prizes and Professor Alistair Gunn’s obituary.
Original source: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/07/01/prime-ministers-science-prizes-announced/
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3. Government backs new mussel spat nursery
July 1, 2026
Source: New Zealand Government
The government is supporting the establishment of a mussel spat nursery in Houhora Bay, Northland to help boost supply for New Zealand’s Greenshell mussel industry, Associate Regional Development Minister Mark Patterson says.
“The New Zealand mussel industry is a high value food and export sector that relies heavily on wild-caught spat. That supply is often unpredictable leading to shortages and limiting the ability of our mussel farmers to fully utilise their consented marine space,” Mr Patterson says.
“This $4.5 million Regional Infrastructure Fund (RIF) loan will help overcome barriers to growth in the sector and make New Zealand’s spat supply more reliable.”
Te Hiku Aquaculture Mussel Spat Project will be delivered by Akau, a special purpose vehicle formed by four iwi which includes Te Aupōuri, Te Rarawa, Ngāi Takoto and Ngāti Kahu. Te Aupōuri Fisheries Management Limited will lead the nursery development on behalf of the collective.
The iwi partners are contributing $1.3 million in co-funding.
The nursery will include up to 150 mussel lines, developed in stages. The first stage will establish 90 lines which are expected to produce around 700 tonnes of spat per year. The nursey will improve survival rates before mussels are transferred to farms nationwide.
The project is expected to deliver long-term returns for the five iwi partners, and create around 10 jobs during construction and five permanent roles once operational.
“This investment aligns with the Government’s Aquaculture Development Plan, which aims to grow the industry to $3 billion in annual revenue by 2035,” Mr Patterson says.
The project is progressing through the Fast-track consent process as part of the broader Muriwhenua Aquaculture application. Securing consent is a condition that must be met before any loan funding is drawn down for the project.
Original source: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/07/01/government-backs-new-mussel-spat-nursery/
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4. Universities – Relationship property law needs urgent reform – UoA researchers
July 1, 2026
From children’s wellbeing to second relationships, legal experts say New Zealand’s relationship property law needs urgent reform.
Why are children’s needs often sidelined when relationship property is divided? What happens when a person enters a second marriage with significant assets or an existing family home?
Those questions and more are on the table as legal experts from across the country meet at Parliament to discuss how to reform New Zealand’s Property (Relationships) Act, which many say is no longer fit for purpose.
University of Auckland Law School Professor Mark Henaghan is speaking at the Property (Relationships) Act 1976: Fifty Years On National Conference this Friday, 3 July.
He’s been vocal about the need for reform.
He says under the Property (Relationships) Act, children’s needs are rarely at the centre of decision-making.
“The primary caregiver and children are often worse off post-separation. Primary caregivers, usually mothers, can face severe economic disadvantage as the family home – the main asset – is sold to satisfy both parties’ claims. For children, this disrupts their education, support networks and sense of identity.”
Henaghan also points to New Zealand research indicating that in the first year following the end of a relationship, women experience an average 29 percent decline in income, while men see a 15 percent average rise.
“The Act has not delivered on one of its key purposes which is to recognise the equal contributions of partners to a relationship and a key principle that men and women have equal status and their equality should be maintained and enhanced.”
Professor Mark Henaghan, Auckland Law School
The Property (Relationships) Act conference, organised by University of Otago researchers and supported with funding from the Michael and Suzanne Borrin Foundation, also involves presentations from legal practitioners, including judges from all courts.
Director of Otago’s Children’s Issues Centre Professor Nicola Taylor and fellow Otago family law experts Professor Margaret Briggs and Professor Nicola Peart are leading the conference.
In 2002, the Property (Relationships) Act (the PRA) expanded on the original Matrimonial Property Act 1976, which applied only to married couples. Since then, Peart says it has worked well in many respects, particularly for couples whose first relationship has ended and who built up their assets during the relationship.
However, she says the Act doesn’t work well for second relationships or for couples who come into the relationship with significant assets.
Law Commission finds Act not fit for purpose
A Law Commission review of the Act from 2016-2019 found that it was no longer fit for purpose.
The Commission’s 2019 report recommended repeal of the Act and the adoption of a new statute, which would apply only on separation. Property entitlements on death were considered in a separate review of succession law.
Henaghan says the Law Commission made strong recommendations, including changes to how family homes, economic disparity, trusts and asset disclosure are treated, to better reflect modern relationships and reduce lengthy disputes.
So far, the Government has not acted on the Commission’s 140 recommendations.
“In the current climate of uncertainty and the state of the economy, there appears to be little political will to act on the recommendations,” says Peart.
“We hope that by holding this conference in the Beehive, Parliament will be persuaded to take action. Separation and death affect people every day.”
The Honourable David Goddard KC, Chairperson of the Grants and Scholarships Committee at the Michael and Suzanne Borrin Foundation, says the conference provides an opportunity to reflect on the Act 50 years after its enactment and to discuss its future.
“By bringing together researchers, practitioners, and policymakers, this conference will help advance understanding and evidence-based reform of a law that has profound consequences for separating couples, families and children.”
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5. Common-sense fix eases costs for toy importers
July 1, 2026
Source: New Zealand Government
This Government will recognise the toy standards of the United States and the European Union, so toys that meet those standards will be compliant in New Zealand too, Commerce and Consumer Affairs Minister Cameron Brewer and Regulation Minister David Seymour say.
“When a parent buys a toy for their child, they should be able to trust that it is safe. That’s the bottom line, and it isn’t changing,” Mr Brewer says.
“But the rules we use to guarantee that safety are stuck in 2002. They’ve been overtaken by newer, modern standards several times over, and they’ve left New Zealand lagging behind Australia.
“That mismatch is hurting Kiwi importers and retailers. We’ve heard they’re retesting toys against our outdated standard even when those toys already meet a comparable international one. That’s wasted time, wasted money, and it can mean fewer products on our shelves and less choice for families,” Mr Brewer says.
“The Ministry for Regulation found that aligning with Australia would reduce compliance costs for suppliers and make New Zealand a more attractive market. So that’s what we’re doing. This change is expected to have a net benefit of $6.8 million over 10 years” Mr Seymour says.
“Following a submission to the Red Tape Tipline we will be making it easier for businesses to put their toys on New Zealand shelves.
“Under the current rules Kiwi toy suppliers are forced front the costs of getting a toy compliant with New Zealand standards. This can cost between $3,500 and $5,000, per toy. Under the new rules, if a toy is compliant in the US or the EU, it’s compliant in New Zealand, at no additional cost to Kiwi businesses.
“This change is expected to have a net benefit of up to $6.8 million over 10 years. Opening the doors to competition will also drive prices down at the checkout, making more toys more affordable to more kiwi families.
“This is good news for importers. Although most toys are compliant with the average toy standards, this change means reputable brands such as Hauck, Happy Horse, Jellycat, Douglas, Little Dutch and Yolline will become more commercially viable to import.
“This is one more problem fixed by the Tipline that Kiwis face, and the bureaucracy won’t touch. The Ministry for Regulation really is the gift that keeps on giving.”
“Parents will be pleased to know that once these changes are in place, toys sold here for young children will need to meet one of three internationally recognised safety standards, each offering the same level of protection for children,” Mr Brewer says.
“This is the Government fixing the basics by cutting needless costs for business and giving Kiwi parents better value, without ever compromising on the safety of their kids,” Mr Brewer says.
An exposure draft of the updated regulations will be released for consultation. Subject to final decisions, suppliers will then be given a six-month transition period to move to the updated requirements.
Original source: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/07/01/common-sense-fix-eases-costs-for-toy-importers/
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6. Major overhaul to health and safety laws passes final reading
July 1, 2026
Source: New Zealand Government
The Health and Safety at Work Amendment Bill has passed its third reading, marking a major milestone in the Government’s overhaul of New Zealand’s health and safety system, and delivering on the ACT-National coalition agreement, Workplace Relations and Safety Minister Brooke van Velden says.
“For too long, businesses have been dealing with a system that is confusing and difficult to comply with. Rather than making workers safer, it has distracted from the risks that really matter and increased regulatory burden.
“This Bill reflects that this Government is listening to the people on the ground having to deal with our laws day in and day out. They told us change was needed, and we have delivered.
“These changes make it clear that the focus should be on preventing serious harm in the workplace.
“This will better protect workers and support a continued reduction in serious workplace injuries and fatalities. At the same time, it frees up businesses to put more of their resources and efforts towards the things that improve their organisation and contribute to economic growth and quality of life for Kiwis, rather than towards compliance for the sake of compliance.
The legislation introduces a stronger focus on critical risks – those that can result in death, serious injury, or illness – so businesses can better prioritise where to direct their time and resources.
The reforms also respond to concerns about unclear expectations and limited guidance by strengthening Approved Codes of Practice (ACOPs) and sharpening WorkSafe’s focus on critical risks and practical support.
“Businesses told us they need clearer, more practical guidance. The Bill clarifies that if a business follows an ACOP’s processes for managing a risk, they can be confident they are meeting their health and safety obligations for that risk.”
Changes also introduce a more proportionate approach for small businesses, which will focus on managing critical risks while continuing to provide essential worker welfare facilities.
“These changes give small businesses clarity about what they need to focus on to keep people safe, without unnecessary compliance burden.”
Other key changes in the Act include:
- clearer duties for directors, so they can focus on governance rather than day-to-day management of a business
- reduced duplication with other regulatory systems, making compliance simpler
- clarifying responsibilities for recreational activities on land
- clearer requirements for reporting serious incidents.
The changes will come into force on 1 April 2027. Guidance to support businesses to understand and meet their obligations will be released over the coming months.
“These reforms strike the right balance – maintaining strong protections for workers while delivering a simpler, more effective system that focuses on critical risks and improves safety outcomes,” says Ms van Velden.
Original source: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/07/01/major-overhaul-to-health-and-safety-laws-passes-final-reading/
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7. Major milestone reached for Local Water Done Well
July 1, 2026
Source: New Zealand Government
Every mainland council in New Zealand now has an approved water services delivery plan under Local Water Done Well, marking a major milestone in delivering more reliable and financially sustainable water services for ratepayers, Local Government Minister Simon Watts says.
The milestone follows the approval of Waitaki District Council’s amended water services delivery plan by the Secretary for Local Government. Waitaki will join Central Otago, Clutha, and Gore District Councils in the new regional water services organisation, Southern Water.
“Waitaki is not alone in facing challenges around the affordability and reliability of water services. Working together through a regional organisation is a positive step forward. It provides scale, better use of expertise and capacity, and improved access to finance,” Mr Watts says.
“The milestone highlights the steady progress of Local Water Done Well, with implementation now well underway across the country.
“As of 1 July, five new council-controlled water organisations are now operating. This includes four multi-council organisations, Waikato’s IAWAI and Waikato Waters, Wellington’s Tiaki Wai, and the Kaikōura–Hurunui joint organisation, alongside the single-council organisation Selwyn Water.
“A further 13 council-controlled water organisations expected to launch in the next 12 months, this means three-quarters of New Zealanders will soon receive water services from organisations established under Local Water Done Well and owned by 46 councils.
“Local Water Done Well supports councils to focus on the basics, fixing pipes, investing in infrastructure, and delivering safe, reliable water services their communities depend on.
“In less than three years, the Government has repealed Labour’s Three Waters policy and returned water assets to local communities.
“We have also supported a financial solution for Watercare, saving Aucklanders $899 million over four years, and reformed water regulation, including new wastewater standards expected to save councils $830 million in consenting costs, alongside economic regulation to better protect consumers’ interests.
“I want to acknowledge the work of the Department of Internal Affairs’ water services team in supporting these outcomes. The team today moves to the new Ministry of Cities, Environment, Regions and Transport, where it will continue its system stewardship role, including monitoring councils’ implementation of their water services delivery plans.
“Acceptance of Waitaki District Council’s plan also marks the completion of Hon Amy Adams’ work as Crown facilitator with the council. I appointed Ms Adams to assist the council in amending its previous plan to meet legislative requirements under Local Water Done Well. I thank her for her work.
“While there is more work to do, this milestone shows we are making strong progress delivering more reliable, sustainable water services for New Zealanders.”
Original source: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/07/01/major-milestone-reached-for-local-water-done-well/
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8. Legislation – Business Canterbury welcomes changes to health and safety legislation
July 1, 2026
Business Canterbury welcomes the passing of the Health and Safety at Work Amendment Bill today, which closes out one of the three key legislative changes the government is making in what we call the ‘trifecta’ of red tape reduction (also including Holidays Act reform and Resource Management Act reform).
“The current system places too much emphasis on tick boxing and paperwork, rather than helping businesses focus on managing the risks that can cause serious harm.
“Inconsistent processes and enforcement action being undertaken by WorkSafe also created an adversarial relationship with the business community, which was not necessarily conducive to positive health and safety outcomes.
“From April next year, businesses will now have much greater clarity on expectations and best practice – which will move them away from box ticking and paperwork generation to a real focus on minimising critical risks.”
Business Canterbury will provide its members with support in the transition period, and will advocate this election year to ensure that the next government honours the substantive changes made through the better recognition of Approved Codes of Practice (ACOPs), the prioritisation and definition of critical risk, and a refocus on an ‘education first’ operating model for WorkSafe.
Business Canterbury, formerly Canterbury Employers’ Chamber of Commerce, is the second largest Chamber of Commerce in New Zealand and the largest business support organisation in the South Island. It advocates on behalf of its members for an environment more favourable to innovation, productivity and sustainable growth.
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9. Regulatory Standards Act takes effect, Board ready for work
July 1, 2026
Source: New Zealand Government
The Regulatory Standards Act is in effect, and the Regulatory Standards Board is taking complaints from Kiwis about bad regulations, Regulation Minister David Seymour says.
“Today is a historic day for Kiwis’ rights, because the Regulatory Standards Act and Board now protects them,” Mr Seymour says.
“The Regulatory Standards Act (2025) is the companion of three other transparency laws that protect New Zealanders’ rights. Voters can see if politicians are running up debt, thanks to the Public Finance Act (1989). They can see if politicians are inflating away the value of a dollar, thanks to the Reserve Bank Act (1989). They can see if politicians are attacking their personal freedoms, thanks to the Bill of Rights Act (1990). So far, though, the high costs of regulating their use and exchange of property have been hidden.
“We’re showing voters who is responsible for putting costs on them and why. Better information means more informed choices at the voting booth. That’s important for the future of New Zealand.
“The Regulatory Standards Act makes the cost of regulation clear to voters. It will require restrictions on peoples’ liberties, severe impairments of their property rights, and the goals, logic, and alternatives considered to be laid bare. Unlike Regulatory Impact Statements these requirements will be in law, and a new entity will be watching it.
“It used to be that if regulations were ruining your life, the person responsible for handling your complaint was the person who enforced those regulations. Now, the Regulatory Standards Board will hear those complaints and stand up for the rights of Kiwis. The Board will be a strong watchdog. It will make sure the costs of regulations are made clear to voters.
“Bad regulations have real consequences for real people. People work hard to earn their livelihood. Now there is scrutiny for people who ruin it with bad regulations.
“The Board will review the quality of Consistency Accountability Statements (CAS), which show whether a Bill is consistent with the principles of good regulation. It ensures the public know who is putting costs onto them, how, and why.
“The Board can also review existing laws. This can be to respond to complaints, or on its own initiative. Its assessments will be published, and the public can pass their own judgement.
“In New Zealand there are over 260 regulators. This includes 95 in central government, 79 in local government, and 57 statutory bodies, committees, or tribunals. That’s exactly why we need the Regulatory Standards Act.
“Now the Regulatory Standards Board wants to hear from you. Kiwis are invited to submit their complaints about inconsistent legislation to the Board, via the Ministry for Regulation website.”
Complaints can be made to the Board here: Regulatory Standards Board complaints portal
Original source: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/07/01/regulatory-standards-act-takes-effect-board-ready-for-work/
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10. Road cone crackdown gathers pace
July 1, 2026
Source: New Zealand Government
The Government is fixing the basics by taking another step to end New Zealand’s overuse of road cones, with councils from today required to adopt a common-sense, risk-based approach to temporary traffic management, Transport Minister Chris Bishop says.
Local roads are owned and maintained by councils, but the Government invests more than $1 billion each year in council transport projects through the National Land Transport Fund.
“Too many councils still require contractors working on local roads to follow an outdated, overly-prescriptive Code of Practice for temporary traffic management,” Mr Bishop says.
“This 500+ page behemoth of a document specifies in detail the exact spacing required between road cones, among many other requirements.
“NZTA has shown you don’t need armies of contractors painstakingly measuring the gaps between road cones like butlers setting the table at Buckingham Palace.
“Instead, NZTA now uses practical guidance that requires contractors to assess the actual risks at each site and choose traffic management that’s appropriate for the job, rather than following a one-size-fits-all rulebook.
“The results speak for themselves. NZTA’s spend on temporary traffic management fell by around $46 million in the last financial year while maintaining safe worksites.
“Some councils have also made good progress toward adopting the more pragmatic approach to temporary traffic management.
“Chocolate fish go to Whangarei District Council, Auckland Transport, Hamilton City Council, Tauranga City Council, New Plymouth District Council, Porirua City Council, Marlborough District Council, Tasman District Council and Christchurch City Council.
“But for all the other councils, this is where the rubber hits the road.
“From today, if councils want National Land Transport Funding for their local transport projects, they will need to use the same common-sense approach that’s delivering results on the state highway network.
“Safety will always come first. But there’s a world of difference between sensible safety measures and treating every suburban pothole like a motorway reconstruction project.
“The benefits go well beyond fewer cones.
“Contractors can focus on managing the real risks at each site, instead of following a one-size-fits-all rulebook. That means more efficient worksites, fewer unnecessary traffic management measures, and less disruption for motorists.
“Road workers deserve to go home safely at the end of every day, and motorists deserve traffic management that’s proportionate to the job being done.
“That’s exactly what this new approach helps deliver.”
Notes to Editor:
- The transition to the New Zealand guide to temporary traffic management (NZGTTM) is well underway across NZTA, councils, the Department of Conservation and the utilities sector.
- All councils and the Department of Conservation submitted transition plans to NZTA by December 2025. All new contracts must use the NZGTTM from 1 July 2026, with existing contracts transitioning by 1 July 2027.
- NZTA’s Road Controlling Authority Temporary Traffic Management Centre (RTTMC) supports implementation across the state highway network, with 85 per cent of applications now using the risk-based approach.
- NZTA’s temporary traffic management spend on the state highway network reduced by approximately $46 million between the 2023/24 and 2024/25 financial years.
Original source: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/07/01/road-cone-crackdown-gathers-pace/
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