3. Dr the Hon LOCKWOOD SMITH (National—Rodney) Link to this
to the Prime Minister
How long has Taito Phillip Field got to respond to the draft inquiry report of Noel Ingram QC into alleged conflicts of interest?
Rt Hon HELEN CLARK (Prime Minister) Link to this
That is a matter for Mr Ingram QC to determine. He is not directed by me.
Dr the Hon Lockwood Smith Link to this
Is the Prime Minister telling this House that as far as she is concerned, Taito Phillip Field has as long as he likes to respond to the draft report into wrongdoings he is alleged to have committed?
Rt Hon HELEN CLARK Link to this
No, I said no such thing. I said that it was a matter for Mr Ingram QC to determine.
Dr the Hon Lockwood Smith Link to this
Has the Prime Minister, or anyone in her office or in the Government, discussed with Noel Ingram QC or Gareth Kayes this year any aspect of the inquiry into alleged conflicts of interest involving Taito Phillip Field; if so, what was she, or they, told?
Rt Hon HELEN CLARK Link to this
I certainly have not spoken with Mr Ingram. To the best of my knowledge, I have never met him. Of course, in the course of setting up the inquiry and terms of reference he was in discussion with Mr Wevers and, from time to time, Mr Wevers would inquire about the progress of the inquiry—in order for questions in this House to be answered.
Dr the Hon Lockwood Smith Link to this
When the Prime Minister told Parliament last week that she had not read the draft report, had she, or any member of her staff or of the Government, received any briefing or advice on the content of the draft report; if so, when did that first take place?
Rt Hon HELEN CLARK Link to this
No advice has been received from Mr Ingram. As the member will be well aware, because it is in the paper this morning, Mr Field has a copy of the report. He is entitled to keep colleagues apprised of that if he wishes.
Dr the Hon Lockwood Smith Link to this
What meetings or discussions has the Prime Minister, or any member of her staff or of the Government, had with Taito Phillip Field since his receipt of that draft report?
Rt Hon HELEN CLARK Link to this
I have no responsibility for Mr Field as a member of Parliament. He is entitled, as a member, to have discussions with colleagues if he wishes. I am not responsible for that.