David

CUNLIFFE

Labour Leader
5 June 2014 MEDIA STATEMENT

John Key out of excuses over John Banks

The Prime Minister must finally acknowledge what New Zealanders have known for two years – his Government has been propped up by a corrupt politician, Labour Leader David Cunliffe says.

“ACT MP John Banks has now been found guilty in the High Court of filing a false electoral return. He was found guilty in the court of public opinion two years ago.

“John Key turned a blind eye to John Banks, refusing to read the Police report which ultimately led to this prosecution.

“The Prime Minister has wilfully ignored the case against the MP for Epsom because he was prepared to have his Government propped up by someone who has acted illegally.

“The National Government can now only pass legislation with the help of the Māori Party. Te Ururoa Flavell needs to ask himself if Māori are being well served by continuing to prop up this out of touch National government.

“Voters are already sickened by the dodgy deal between National and ACT that brought John Banks into Parliament.

“The Prime Minister must now act to restore confidence in our political system. Labour reiterates its challenge to the National government to remove the coat-tailing provisions from the Electoral Act. Our Members' Bill is ready to go and we would support its passage prior to the election.

“This trial has sounded the death knell for ACT. Epsom voters have surely had enough of being taken for granted.

“The legacy of this National Government will be one of cronyism, where the Prime Minister put politics ahead of ethics and allowed Ministers like Judith Collins, Peter Dunne and John Banks to make fools of hard working taxpayers who pay their salaries,” David Cunliffe says.

© Scoop Media