Statement By Hon Peter Dunne MP

“I am extremely concerned and upset by the Henry Report’s findings regarding the unauthorised release of the Kitteridge Report in so far as they relate to me.

“While I did not leak the report, and challenge Fairfax to confirm that, some of my actions after I received an advance copy of the report were extremely unwise and lacked the judgement reasonably expected of a Minister in such circumstances.

“I accept full responsibility for that.

“The sole reason why I did not disclose the full content of my emails was because of my strong belief that citizens, be they constituents, members of the public or journalists, ought to be able to communicate with their elected representatives in confidence if they wish, and we tamper with that right at our collective peril.

“However, be all that as it may, I acknowledge that I have not lived up to the high professional standards I have always set myself as a Minister.

“I have therefore concluded that I cannot continue to function effectively in these circumstances, given the lapses of judgement I have shown.

“The honourable course for me to follow now is to offer my resignation as a Minister.

“I do so with a very heavy heart and a great deal of reluctance, but acknowledge there is no credible alternative.

“The UnitedFuture Party’s confidence and supply agreement with the National-led Government is not affected by my decision, and we will continue to honour that agreement in letter and spirit as we have done for the last four and a half years.

“The last few days have been especially difficult for my wife and family, whose support throughout I acknowledge with huge gratitude; for my staff, whose careers will be affected, for my friends, and colleagues in the UnitedFuture Party.

“My focus from now will be on representing my Ōhariu constituents and rebuilding my party, UnitedFuture.

“I will take a couple of questions now, but will not be making any further comment after this press conference.

“For my family’s sake, I request that our privacy be respected at this difficult time.”

ENDS

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