Clayton
COSGROVE
SOE Spokesperson
8 March 2013 MEDIA STATEMENT
Labour calls for inquiry into Solid Energy

Labour is writing to the chair of the Commerce Select Committee to request an inquiry into the collapse of Solid Energy and to issue a subpoena to its former chief executive Dr Don Elder if necessary, says Labour’s SOE spokesperson Clayton Cosgrove.

“Solid Energy’s collapse is a huge concern to the public. New Zealanders deserve answers on how this successful company turned into a basket case.

“I am writing to Jonathan Young, the chair of the Commerce Select Committee requesting an inquiry into the clearly deep-rooted problems in this company.

“The current chair and interim chief executive are new to the roles and can’t answer questions adequately, through no fault of their own.

“One of the people who has the answers is currently being paid $1.3 million a year to work from home. Former chief executive Dr Don Elder must appear before the committee. Solid Energy has said he is free to do so. If he does not wish to appear I will ask the committee to issue a subpoena for him to attend.

“It’s time for answers,” says Clayton Cosgrove.

ENDS

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