12. Dr the Hon LOCKWOOD SMITH (National—Rodney) Link to this
to the Prime Minister
Has she been advised of the progress of the inquiry being undertaken by Dr Noel Ingram to investigate allegations of conflicts of interest involving the Hon Taito Phillip Field; if so, has she been advised of when she is to receive the final report?
Rt Hon HELEN CLARK (Prime Minister) Link to this
Yes and no, but I understand that it is nearing completion.
Dr the Hon Lockwood Smith Link to this
What has she been advised by Dr Ingram are the reasons for the delay in the report of his inquiry, which was announced by her on 20 September last year and due to report its findings by 4 October, yet which has still not been received 6 months later?
Rt Hon HELEN CLARK Link to this
I have been saying throughout that 6-month period that Dr Ingram should take as long as he needs to in order to write a good report.
Ron MarkHas she been advised of the progress of any other investigations being undertaken by any other ministries into any other members of Parliament, such as, for instance, the investigation being conducted by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade into the allegations of conflicts of interest and impropriety that involve the member for Wairarapa, Mr John Hayes; if so, what can she tell us about that inquiry?
Rt Hon HELEN CLARK Link to this
No, I do not have any information about that inquiry, although I am sure that if the activities alleged had been undertaken while the member was in the service of the ministry, then that would have been of considerable concern to it.
Madam SPEAKERWould the members who were whistling in the House please refrain from doing so unless they wish to leave the Chamber. [ Interruption] It is not a laughing matter; I take it very seriously.
Dr the Hon Lockwood Smith Link to this
Is she aware whether the inquiry is covering issues surrounding any involvement of Taito Phillip Field in prospective immigrants to New Zealand being offered jobs by Culvedern Group Ltd—trading as Pasifika Centre and Hospital—which is currently having its certification reviewed by the Ministry of Health, and which has some staff under police investigation?
Dr the Hon Lockwood Smith Link to this
What action does she as Prime Minister intend to take if, upon the receipt of Dr Ingram’s report, Taito Phillip Field is found to have been misusing his position as a member of Parliament?
Rt Hon HELEN CLARK Link to this
As Prime Minister I have responsibility for Ministers; I do not have responsibility for members of Parliament.