We welcome the Electoral Commission’s referral to the
police. It confirms our prior view that only the police
would have the powers to determine the issues involved.
In light of the Electoral Commission’s findings today
the New Zealand First Party can also confirm it will be
reviewing its arrangements for party donations.
New
Zealand First’s arrangements for collecting donations has
been the same as other political parties. The New Zealand
First Foundation is built upon the trust deed of the
National Party.
However, the Electoral Commission’s
statement today further underscores the importance of
reviewing the donations regime. I had already advised the
party last week to take this course of action and itself
refer the matter to the police, which the party had agreed
to do.
This does not imply any impropriety but is
intended to ensure the party, as with all parties, have
robust arrangements.
If the review deems it necessary for
New Zealand First and all parties to develop new
arrangements to receive donations the party will consult
with the Electoral Commission.
This party is built on the
support of loyal supporters and donors and believes it has
followed the law implicitly.
I am advised that in all its
dealings the Foundation sought outside legal advice and does
not believe it has breached the Electoral Act.
At this
stage the SFO will consider if an offence has been
committed, or otherwise, and it is not appropriate to make
any comment on specific detail that prejudges their
investigation.
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