11. IAIN LEES-GALLOWAY (Labour—Palmerston North) Link to this
to the Minister of Defence
Why has he not provided substantive answers to Questions for Written Answer 6098 to 6102 (2011)?
Hon Dr WAYNE MAPP (Minister of Defence) Link to this
As the member knows, I have provided an interim answer. The questions asked for a range of information, particularly around the issues of investigating potential or historic environmental damage, which has taken a bit of time to get. The information has been provided and the substantive answers will be given this week.
Iain Lees-Galloway Link to this
Does he accept that the theft of ammunition from a Defence Force depot poses a serious threat to public safety, and that he, as Minister, should be prepared to answer questions on the security of ammunition storage within expected time frames; if not, why not?
Hon Dr WAYNE MAPP Link to this
I am prepared. In fact, I advise the member that I am meeting the Chief of Defence Force this afternoon with the member of Parliament for Northcote, in whose electorate the Kauri Point facility is located, with the intention of looking at an improved plan relating to security and also to the environmental protection of the ammunition.
Iain Lees-Galloway Link to this
I seek leave to table a document titled the Mapp Report, which shows that Dr Wayne Mapp first became aware of security issues at Kauri Point before 16 May 2008.
Mr SPEAKERThis is a new one—a member’s newsletter being tabled—but I will seek leave of the House. Leave is sought to table that document. Is there any objection? There is objection.
Iain Lees-Galloway Link to this
Why, when he has known for some time that there were security issues with the storage of ammunition, did he do nothing about it, and then refuse to answer questions when the safety of his own constituents was put at risk by a security breach?
Hon Dr WAYNE MAPP Link to this
I assure the member on the first point that the safety of the ammunition per se is not actually at risk, but there is clearly a need to upgrade security. There is a new management plan in place, and I am meeting the Chief of Defence Force this afternoon to essentially take this whole issue forward to improve security.