John Key MP

National Party Leader

24 September 2008

Labour threats to Maori Party concerning

The threats levelled at the Maori Party over the Winston Peters Privileges Committee case are serious and concerning, says National Party Leader John Key.

"Helen Clark should explain why a Minister of hers told the Maori Party there would be 'unpleasant repercussions' from the Maori people if the party voted against Winston Peters in the Privileges case.

"Helen Clark said the Privileges Committee process was tainted.*

"She was right that it was tainted - but by Labour tactics.

"This is a serious issue. The Privileges Committee is an important institution.

"It is concerning, as it appears that one of Helen Clark's Ministers tried to influence the outcome of the committee's deliberations.

"The question for Helen Clark is whether she condones or endorses this kind of underhand tactic.

"In the past three years the Maori Party has proved to be passionate advocates for Maori. Their supporters will be concerned by this course of events."

ENDS

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