MEDIA ADVISORY ON BEHALF OF DEREK LEASK  28 January 2014

Investigation Into MFAT Leaks

“On 12 December 2013 the Report of the MFAT Investigation was released making incorrect and unproven assertions about Derek Leask.  

“This was followed immediately by unwarranted public comments.

Derek Leask continues to receive questions about this matter from the media.  Accordingly, in order to defend his reputation and to ensure some balance in public commentary on this matter, he is releasing four documents as follows:

1   The text of advice given to him in November 2013 by his Counsel Bruce Corkill QC.  

This factual, careful and fully considered advice underscores concerns that have already been aired about the conduct and content of the MFAT Investigation.

2, 3, & 4     The text of statements referred to in Mr Corkill’s paper.  These statements are by Sir Maarten Wevers, Head of the Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet during 2012, and by Mr Neil Walter a former Secretary of Foreign Affairs and Trade.  They are evidence provided by Mr Corkill to the MFAT Investigation, but which the Investigation declined to include in its report.

Derek Leask was former Deputy Secretary Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade (2004-2008) and former High Commissioner to London (2008-2012).

1) Attach_1_to_Media_Advisory__Corkill.docx

2) Attach_2_to_Media_Advisory__Wevers.docx

3) Attach_3_to_Media_Advisory__N_Walter_Feb_2013.pdf

4) Attach_4_to_Media_Advisory__Walter_Sep_2013.doc

ENDS

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