Introduction

The incoming Government has signalled, principally via the Labour Party's e-commerce policy, that it sees Government having a key role to play in this area as:

• a leader;

• a model user

• a promoter of New Zealand's interests internationally; and

• an active key enabler.

It is also noted that the Alliance has stated that "e-commerce is to be encouraged by getting the Government to lead the way".

This briefing is from the Chief Executives Group on Information Management and Technology, which has met regularly for the past two years. It is intended to inform you about issues emerging under the banner of 'e-government'. It briefly discusses the intersections between e-commerce, e-government and social issues, and identifies how e-government initiatives could support achievement of objectives laid out in the Government's e-commerce policies, and aspects of the wider agenda of the new Government.