John Key MP
National Party Leader

25 July 2007

Reassurance lacking from Clark on public servants

Public servants are unlikely to be reassured by Helen Clark’s failure to offer a personal view today on the idea of a conflict-of-interest register for public servants, says National Party Leader John Key.

“The Prime Minister has the responsibility to set the tone from the very top.

“It’s not good enough to hide behind the State Services Commission on this issue, as she did in Parliament today.

“I would think that civil servants will be worried that the Environment Ministry’s plan for a conflict of interest register will be replicated in other departments and ministries.

“It is important that a climate of fear isn’t created in the public service over who someone’s sibling or partner might be.

“I note that the Public Service Association is concerned about this issue – and with good reason.

“Under a National government, public servants will continue to be treated professionally.”

ENDS

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