He 17 April 2004 Media Statement

PM responds to passport case

Prime Minister Helen Clark said today she was aware of a case in the Auckland District Court related to an attempt to fraudulently obtain a New Zealand passport.

Helen Clark said court action was still under way and accordingly the government was constrained in what it could say.

“I will not make any comment which might jeopardise the case before the court.

“The government takes seriously any action which challenges the integrity of the New Zealand passport system.

“The public can be assured that the government will act to protect the reputation of the New Zealand passport.

“The people involved in this case are Israeli citizens and the matter has been raised directly with the Israeli government, but I am not able to make further comment.

“There will be a strong and public response to this matter once the court action has concluded, “Helen Clark said.

ENDS

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