Gerry Brownlee MP National Party Deputy Leader

1 August 2006

National will pursue formal Field inquiry

National Party Deputy Leader Gerry Brownlee says "an apology or expression of regret from Taito Phillip Field simply won't do".

He is referring to the collaborative approach between the Greens and Labour in Parliament today who launched a joint bid to shut the issue down.

"It is all too convenient for Mr Field to have had an 'expression of regret' ready to read to Parliament in line with the Green Party's notice of motion.

"For the integrity of Parliament to be fully restored a formal inquiry into the activities of the Labour MP is still required.

"National firmly believes further questions must be asked of Mr Field even if he does apologise or make a personal statement.

"What is he apologising for if, as he says, he has done nothing wrong and has been exonerated?"

Mr Brownlee says National still intends exploring every avenue open to it to secure a formal select committee inquiry, and other inquiries by relevant authorities.

"Unless formal questions are asked, and answered, the stain that hangs over Parliament will remain. For the Greens and Labour to have conspired to try to put a lid on the fallout from this affair is nothing short of a disgrace.

"New Zealand politics has long been free of corruption and we must act to protect that reputation," says Mr Brownlee.

ENDS

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