The New Zealand First Leader, Rt Hon Winston Peters, has called on the news media to start showing some responsibility over the private life of the Prime Minister, Helen Clark.

Mr Peters said it was totally wrong for the Sunday Star Times to publish a map and photograph of her private residence in Auckland because the publicity could spark ideas among people living on the “lunatic fringe” in the area.

“I do not wish to comment on the issue of the hostel in Ms Clark’s neighbourhood, but it is grossly irresponsible and unsafe for a national newspaper to give out details of where she lives.

“Many parts of New Zealand are unfortunately no longer safe because of the number of unbalanced, violent people in the community.

“The Prime Minister is entitled to her privacy, and also to be safe in her own home. The Editor of the Sunday Star Times owes her an apology, and should be landed with the expense of any extra security required at the house as a result of the publicity,” said Mr Peters.

Ends

© Scoop Media