14 May 2009

Media Statement

Does John Key still back his hand-picked Mt Albert candidate?

John Key handpicked his candidate Melissa Lee for the Mt Albert by-election, but must now be embarrassed by the silly comments she has made about the motorway funnelling criminals out of Mt Albert," Phil Goff said.

"The real issue is the Government's decision about the motorway which will destroy the homes of 365 families ad Ms Lee's refusal to speak on behalf of the concerns of the local community.

"Ms Lee's idea that South Auckland people are criminals who should be funnelled through Mt Albert and directly into West Auckland is just ridiculous. It raises questions about her competence and suitability as a candidate.

“The comments are the third time in less than a week that Melissa Lee’s actions and behaviour have raised serious questions over her judgment.

“She is John Key’s hand-picked candidate for Mt Albert. He must be regretting his decision to parachute her into the fight for the seat.

“On Sunday she announced that she preferred an overground motorway though Mt Albert, despite the worries and concerns of local residents. This was a more extreme choice than even that of the National Party and would have led to more than the 365 families whose homes are to be demolished under National’s plans

“Embarrassingly for Ms Lee and National, John Key was then forced to clarify National’s position: ‘That may be her preferred option, that's not necessarily what the Cabinet has recommended’, he said. Transport Minister Steven Joyce also made it clear he had not briefed her on one of the major issues in the electorate.

“Then on Tuesday night serious allegations were raised about Melissa Lee’s actions as a businesswoman before the 2008 election and whether she ignored a major conflict of interest, misused funds and whether the election video produced was listed as an election expense as required under law. At least two investigations are already underway into the appropriateness of her behaviour.

“Yesterday, John Key was forced to defend her, with the qualified statement that she had told him she had done nothing wrong and ‘on that basis I take her at her word’.

“An electorate MP’s job is to strongly advocate for their community. Melissa Lee has shown that she does not understand that and her actions raise questions about her lack of judgement. The question for John Key is does he still back her?” Phil Goff said.

ENDS

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