Hon Dr Nick Smith Nelson MP

24 March 2004

Smith bitterly disappointed by contempt ruling

National MP Nick Smith is bitterly disappointed at the High Court decision that he was in contempt of court for highlighting the plight of a Nelson family denied custody of their own child.

"It is extraordinary that in a free and democratic country I have been convicted for saying a boy should be with his mum and dad. "I have no regrets about the actions I took in support of this Nelson family last year. This conviction pales into insignificance compared to the loss of their son.

"My regret is that the system has responded by shooting the messenger rather than taking the message that the Family Court needs reform. "I am very grateful for the support I have had from my Parliamentary colleagues and the public of Nelson.

"I also wish to thank people like Auckland Mayor John Banks, Nelson Mayor Peter Malone and the hundreds of others who have so generously supported me.

"I am considering appealing this judgment. I will make a decision after consulting my lawyers and my supporters in Nelson. I will make a decision about my political future after the weekend," says Dr Smith.

Ends

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