28 May 2007

Comment on Solid Energy and informants

State Owned Enterprises Minister Trevor Mallard said he discussed the question of Solid Energy's use of paid informants with Solid Energy acting chairman John Spencer today.

"I made it clear that while I understood Solid Energy's frustration at the appalling behaviour of Happy Valley protestors, the use of paid informants was not acceptable, and a step too far for a State Owned Enterprise."

Mr Spencer has indicated that the matter will be reviewed by the board at the next meeting, and that he would pass on to the board the minister's expectation that the practice will stop.

ENDS