Media statement from Derek Leask, former High Commissioner in London (2008-2012) and former Deputy Secretary at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade (2004 -2008).

Media Statement 17 Jun 2014

Ombudsman’s decision to investigate SSC’s investigation welcomed

Former High Commissioner to London Derek Leask welcomes a decision from the Ombudsman to investigate a complaint against the State Services Commission over its 2012-13 inquiry into leaks of information about the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade (MFAT).

Mr Leask, who retired in December 2012, after a 5 year term in London and a 43-year career at MFAT, lodged a complaint with the Ombudsman in February.

Ombudsman Professor Ron Paterson has advised him that his office had notified the SSC of its intention to investigate the complaint.

Mr Leask has been advised that, in line with his complaint, the Ombudsman intends to Investigate:

A. Whether the investigation was conducted in a reasonable and fair manner in relation to the Complainant;

B. Whether the findings of the Investigator in relation to the Complainant were wrong and/or unreasonable;

C. Whether the decisions of the Commissioner to accept the Final Report and publish it, including in effect identifying the Complainant, were unreasonable, unjust and/or oppressive.

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