Update: Electoral Commission Investigation

As always, we like to keep members up to date on matters relating to the Party.

An issue has just arisen that the Electoral Commission is asking for an investigation of two Conservative Party Candidate's Election Expense returns relating to the 2011 Election. This was reported in today's Herald so you may already be familiar with the details.

As a party we support an open and transparent democracy. It is important that the commission check and ensure that candidates are honest and accurate in their expenses returns. We fully support the electoral commission following this matter up, as in doing so, they are carrying out their duty.

Both candidates assure us they have as best possible filed accurate returns. We have no reason to doubt this is the case.

For those who are interested, the details of the matter are as follows;

Advertising Expenses under Investigation
The matter concerns radio advertising (Radio Rhema) for two candidates, namely Mr Redman and Mr Baldock. The Conservative Party purchased bulk blocks of radio advertising that was then allocated to candidates in different regions.

Original Returns
In the original returns the candidate advertising for the North Island Central region was reported as split between the two candidates. This split was based on 40% for Mr Redman and 60% for Mr Baldock. The radio station acknowledges that Mr Baldock contacted them to arrange the split of advertising.

Subsequent Correction
Subsequently it was established that in fact the radio advertising had featured only Mr Baldock and therefore the original returns filed by the candidates required correction. Amended returns were then filed.

The returns in question can be viewed on our website www.conservativeparty.org.nz

As always, if you have any further conerns, please feel free to give me a call. We will continue to work on your behalf to bring much needed change to our Nation.