New Zealand First has accused the Prime Minister of trying to “fudge” the position of the Deputy Prime Minister over the stand he took in relation to the Radiocommunications Amendment Bill.

Law and Order and Defence spokesperson, Ron Mark, said this morning that Helen Clark had conveniently forgotten that when she is out of the country, Mr Anderton is in charge of its security.

“He voted against a crucial clause in the Bill which means that the Alliance leader is against information picked up randomly about terrorists by Government surveillance agencies being passed on to the appropriate authorities.

“This is pretty scary stuff and Ms Clark cannot confuse the issue by likening it to a Health Minister holding strong views on abortion,” said Mr Mark.

He called on the Prime Minister to reveal publicly the discussions she has had with her deputy about his lack of patriotism, and to explain why New Zealanders should have confidence in him when she is out of the country.

“We know there were angry exchanges behind the scenes and she cannot hide this fact,” said Ron Mark.

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