In their opinion, closed borders will result in deceit and underground activity including black market trading in modified organisms and embryos. On the other hand, open borders would open New Zealand to uncontrolled experimentation. This may harm the living relationships amongst existing organisms, trample over indigenous spirituality, and leave New Zealand bereft of intellectual property developed within its institutions, or that is the property of hapu or iwi, vulnerable local enterprises, or scientific institutions. The Anglican Church then submitted that while there were diverse views among it members it seeks to be part of a nation where by careful and humble ethical management, acknowledgement of spirituality and collaboration towards just outcomes will allow for appropriate development of GM technology.
Selective moratoria are in their opinion the only way forward.
This would enable New Zealand to the establish ethical guidelines, and to monitor longitudinal studies of specific applications, products and or organisms. Furthermore, a moratorium for the purpose of establishing principles for corporate behaviour and establishing processes for meeting the spiritual needs of the Tangata Whenua and other groups is essential. The Anglican Church expressed support for the establishment of an Ethics Council drawn from a number of disciplines including theology. The Council would be representative of hapu and iwi and draw on people with common sense who have a feel for justice and the integrity of creation. The common good as a standard is, in their opinion, not encompassing enough.